While what you have to say in your presentation counts for a lot, the materials you use for your presentation can make a vital impression and impact as well.
You want your presentation to be a success, and this can only happen if everything falls into place – including presentation materials.
So, what do you need when it comes to presentation materials? What are the essential elements you should have for your presentation? Here’s your all-important guide.
• PowerPoint slides
If you want something that will help support or backup your presentation, then PowerPoint slides are guaranteed to do the trick. PowerPoint slides are now considered necessary, and rightly so.
But there’s a thin line between using your PowerPoint slides as a crutch and not a simple prop – you need to strike a balance between the two. One important tip: try not to have too many PowerPoint slides.
The thing with having an excessive number of slides is that you may not be able to go through each point thoroughly, which can leave your audience with more questions than answers.
When it comes to slides, 15 is the ideal number; 20 is pushing it, so try not to go beyond 20. Also, limit the PowerPoint slide information to key topics or issues. Another thing: it’s best to keep your slides as free from clutter as possible; utilise bullet points and avoid lengthy paragraphs.
• Handouts, kits, brochures, and folders
A presentation wouldn’t be complete without handouts, kits, brochures, folders, and so on. Printed material like this can also make a world of difference when it comes to your presentation’s effectiveness. Some experts would say that brochures are more critical for first meetings, handouts are ideal for second meetings.
However, it’s really up to you – the key is to know your audience, so you can have a better idea of what they will appreciate. One thing is clear, though: whether you’re handing out brochures or handouts, it’s better to place them in good quality presentation folders.
A5 presentation folders, for example, can be fully customised according to whatever design you want, as long as it’s a good representation of your business’ image, and it can serve as a good reminder of your company as well. All your printed promotional and marketing materials should be of good quality, with excellent graphics, images, colours, and finishes so you can impart a good impression of your company.
• Product props and demos
If you are planning a presentation of a particular product or some products, you will have to appeal to your audience’s senses. Your audience, in other words, will have to see, feel, smell, and perhaps taste your product. You need a product demonstration or props. The more you can get your audience to engage with the product, the better.
But if you have a business which is service- rather than product-oriented, you can still offer various props, such as positive customer reviews, photos or images of your business’ office or establishment, and more. Don’t bring too much, though – bring the most impactful, important, and most relevant ones.
Image attributed to Pixabay.com
