For some people the thought alone of listening to statistics makes them yawn. However, there are times when you are expected to provide facts and figures as part of your business presentations. It can be quite a challenge to find a way to create a memorable presentation when presenting statistics to your audience. You want to make an impact on your audience and not turn their attention off completely. Here are some helpful tips for capturing audience attention while adding stats to your presentation.
Do Not Confuse Knowledge With Clutter
There is a common misconception that the more facts and figures you throw out the more knowledgeable you appear. In fact, the complete opposite is true. Too much data creates confusion and it becomes difficult for your audience to decipher the information. A confusing presentation can be boring, wasteful, and an unnecessary expense. Instead, choose meaningful data and present it in a clear and concise manner.
Start With The Reason Behind The Numbers
Rather than just throwing numbers at your audience, help them connect with the data by focusing on the story behind the numbers. The data is much more likely to be meaningful if they understand the reasoning behind it. There must be meaningful content behind your statistics. For example, you may share an anecdote that helps provide context for the statistic being discussed.
Keep It Organized
As you are telling the story, show charts and graphs that go along with each part. There should be a logical sequence of events rather than one slide after the next of data. This will make the information easier for the audience to understand while presenting in a way that is more interesting.
Compare Stats Overtime
One of the best ways to get audience attention is to compare stats from an earlier time. This can have a powerful impact on your audience as they see how the data has change from one year to the next. Take the time to explain the data to your audience rather than assuming they just “get it.â€
Using statistics can be a highly effective tool for presenting information when done so correctly. It adds an element of realism by showing real outcomes. It also has an emotional impact on your audience. When delivered appropriately, stats can be memorable and add credibility to your presentation.