Bold Introduction
Body and Discussion
For all entrepreneurs, this portion is for you. To gratify your needs and to enlighten you on how to start a business presentation. Here are the basics.
Always start with a concrete plan to strengthen the body of your presentation. With that, your listeners can’t easily stab your presentation.
If you are discussing in a formal setting, pick a deck with gray colors, choose dominant colors, and then combine.
To balance the whole presentation, put some icebreakers and funny idioms about your topic. Make sure it is sensible.
It helps your audience to get intact through the presentation. Try to use signal transitions, such as words or phrases that would give interconnections.
Of course, images and charts are vital. Make sure to use HD photos and reliable maps from data websites.
After the presentation, evaluate it by asking your listeners if they have any questions.
Questions like these must be considered and answered in your presentation.
Watch this live Speech <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:271">A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:27"><strong>Components of a Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-10:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:73"><strong>Content:</strong> The information, message, or story conveyed through words.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:106"><strong>Delivery:</strong> The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-10:0"><strong>Structure:</strong> The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="11:1-11:21"><strong>Speech in Action:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="13:1-17:0"> <li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:88"><strong>Informing:</strong> Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.</li> <li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:119"><strong>Persuading:</strong> Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.</li> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:93"><strong>Motivating:</strong> Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-17:0"><strong>Entertaining:</strong> Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="18:1-18:32"><strong>Public Speaking and Anxiety:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="20:1-20:227">Many people experience <strong>public speaking anxiety</strong>, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it's common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="22:1-22:32"><strong>Different Types of Speeches:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="24:1-28:0"> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:81"><strong>Informative speech:</strong> Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:102"><strong>Persuasive speech:</strong> Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:99"><strong>Motivational speech:</strong> Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.</li> <li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0"><strong>Entertaining speech:</strong> Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="29:1-29:33"><strong>Crafting a Compelling Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="31:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:106"><strong>Know your audience:</strong> Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:107"><strong>Have a clear message:</strong> Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:111"><strong>Engage your audience:</strong> Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Practice, practice, practice:</strong> Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:13"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="38:1-38:281">Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech or business seminar to get different hooks and other strategies to impress your listeners with your business presentation:
As your supervisor and other executives watch you presenting, stand tall and present like a boss through these points.
It organizes the presentation and connects the main points to sub-points. With that, you can have minimal effort but impactful results.
Try to begin asking the “why’s,” furthermore, enlighten them of “hows.” How to conduct, how to execute, and how to surpass their limits.
Stop introducing your presentation with your name. Always start to implore your audience with no cliché intro.
You can be ideological, symbolic, and rhetorical, and these things are not yet easy to comprehend without visuals. That’s why it is essential to develop and expand your data to make it understandable.
Suppose you want to have a good impression when presenting a business proposal to your bosses and other hotshots. Watch this video on striking tips and techniques for a presentation:
Case study presentations are more technical, unlike the other displays. It should be specific, tangible, credible, and substantial.
Also, here are the vital points to follow.
Facing new students is challenging, right? If you want to get a good impression from your class in different situations, take a look at these tips.
Tell them briefly who you are and why you are there in front of them while showing the right conduct and manners.
The material or your material must be the center of any presentation. Discuss its factuality and how tangible it is. Along with these, tell stories that may catch their interest and attention throughout the presentation.
End it with a bang! Make them think and stare at you. You can also give them riddles and some metaphorical set of words as an ending remark .
Indeed, you will gain their participation, plus you are helping your listeners to think critically.
Become a pro presenter. Download Orai and start practicing
To give more emphasis on how to start a business presentation and to help young entrepreneurs. I’ll share with you this detailed outline. I hope you tuck this with you.
Always set the stage with objectives. Since you are presenting to get clients and investment, it would help if you cleared how long it takes your business proposal.
Never underestimate the power of storytelling. Initiate your presentation with real-life stories.
Stating provoking questions can grab attention, positive or negative, is a good result. It helps you to get your listener’s ears and eyes.
This recommendation is similar to a word game, the “4-pics, One Word,” demonstrating the idea or topic with photos will be more immersing.
Visuals are one of the key points to expand a presentation. They are depicting patterns, diagrams, and trends. Lend quick analysis and predictions.
By using graphics, you can easily sustain the interest of your listeners and attract more viewers.
Master your presentation and fill loops. And on your topic. Study the weak points and establish more of the strengths of the presentation.
With that, you can derive the information smoothly. Take note of this. It is also vital on how to start a Board Meeting <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:200">A formal gathering of a company's board of directors, where they discuss strategic matters, review financial performance, make key decisions, and oversee the organization's governance.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:21"><strong>Key Participants:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-11:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:102"><strong>Board members:</strong> Elected or appointed individuals responsible for guiding the company's direction.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:94"><strong>Executives:</strong> Company leaders like the CEO, CFO, and COO, who provide updates and reports.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:88"><strong>Secretary:</strong> Oversees logistics, records minutes, and ensures compliance with rules.</li> <li data-sourcepos="10:1-11:0"><strong>Legal counsel:</strong> Offers guidance on legal matters and ensures adherence to regulations.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="12:1-12:12"><strong>Purpose:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="14:1-19:0"> <li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:78"><strong>Strategic planning:</strong> Setting the company's long-term direction and goals.</li> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:81"><strong>Financial oversight:</strong> Reviewing financial reports, budgets, and investments.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-16:86"><strong>Risk management:</strong> Identifying and mitigating potential risks to the organization.</li> <li data-sourcepos="17:1-17:76"><strong>Executive evaluation:</strong> Assessing the performance of company leadership.</li> <li data-sourcepos="18:1-19:0"><strong>Decision-making:</strong> Approving key initiatives, investments, and policies.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="20:1-20:11"><strong>Format:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="22:1-25:0"> <li data-sourcepos="22:1-22:43">Varies based on company size and culture.</li> <li data-sourcepos="23:1-23:91">Typically includes presentations, discussions, voting on proposals, and Q&A sessions.</li> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-25:0">It may be formal with strict agendas or more informal with brainstorming sessions.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="26:1-26:26"><strong>Public Speaking Roles:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="28:1-30:0"> <li data-sourcepos="28:1-28:125"><strong>CEO and other executives:</strong> Act as a <strong>public speaker</strong>, presenting reports, answering questions, and defending proposals.</li> <li data-sourcepos="29:1-30:0"><strong>Board members:</strong> May participate in discussions, ask questions, and occasionally propose or speak in favor of motions.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="31:1-31:39"><strong>Addressing Public Speaking Anxiety:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="33:1-36:0"> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:87">Many executives and board members face <strong>public speaking anxiety</strong> in these meetings.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-34:93">Preparation, practicing presentations, and visualization techniques can help manage nerves.</li> <li data-sourcepos="35:1-36:0">Some companies hire <strong>public speaking coaches</strong> to offer personalized guidance and improve communication skills.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="37:1-37:248"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="37:1-37:248">Effective board meetings require clear communication, active participation, and informed decision-making. By understanding the format, roles, and potential challenges, participants can contribute to a productive and impactful session.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/board-meeting/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">board meeting presentation.
Put the top 10 successful corporations, traders, companies, and other information that may help you present your goal. Flash the motto of some famous entrepreneurs. Analyze or contradict it to gain more attention.
Try to spiel some business jokes as an icebreaker. Any possible facts about business that you can use — catch it!
Play videos like a Public Service Announcement (PSA), but make sure it is connected to your topic.
Learn how to start a business presentation that has movement and action for society. With that, your listeners may think your presentation is worth investing in.
Stay calm and don’t even think about drawbacks or shortcomings, especially the night before the presentation.
Make sure to pamper your body. Create also a plan B for unexpected circumstances.
In your run-through, always set a timer. It gives you a heads up if you may look rushing or too slow in explaining each slide.
Being not responsible for other people’s time is a turn-off, especially in business, where time is essential in the industry.
To present other samples wisely. Let me share some videos to rock and how to start a presentation:
Successful presentations like “How Google Works” and “Start with Why” prove the power of Clarity <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:269">In <strong>public speaking</strong>, <strong>clarity</strong> refers to the quality of your message being readily understood and interpreted by your audience. It encompasses both the content and delivery of your speech, ensuring your message resonates and leaves a lasting impact.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:16"><strong>Key Aspects:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-13:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:133"><strong>Conciseness:</strong> Avoid unnecessary details, digressions, or excessive complexity. Focus on delivering the core message efficiently.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:149"><strong>Simple language:</strong> Choose words and phrases your audience understands readily, avoiding jargon or technical terms unless you define them clearly.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:145"><strong>Logical structure:</strong> Organize your thoughts and ideas logically, using transitions and signposts to guide your audience through your message.</li> <li data-sourcepos="10:1-10:136"><strong>Effective visuals:</strong> If using visuals, ensure they are clear, contribute to your message, and don't distract from your spoken words.</li> <li data-sourcepos="11:1-11:144"><strong>Confident delivery:</strong> Speak clearly and articulately, avoiding mumbling or rushing your words. Maintain good eye contact with your audience.</li> <li data-sourcepos="12:1-13:0"><strong>Active voice:</strong> Emphasize active voice for better flow and avoid passive constructions that can be less engaging.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="14:1-14:24"><strong>Benefits of Clarity:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="16:1-20:0"> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-16:123"><strong>Enhanced audience engagement:</strong> A clear message keeps your audience interested and helps them grasp your points easily.</li> <li data-sourcepos="17:1-17:123"><strong>Increased credibility:</strong> Clear communication projects professionalism and expertise, building trust with your audience.</li> <li data-sourcepos="18:1-18:111"><strong>Improved persuasiveness:</strong> A well-understood message is more likely to resonate and win over your audience.</li> <li data-sourcepos="19:1-20:0"><strong>Reduced confusion:</strong> Eliminating ambiguity minimizes misinterpretations and ensures your message arrives as intended.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="21:1-21:15"><strong>Challenges:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="23:1-27:0"> <li data-sourcepos="23:1-23:129"><strong>Condensing complex information:</strong> Simplifying complex topics without sacrificing crucial details requires skill and practice.</li> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:128"><strong>Understanding your audience:</strong> Tailoring your language and structure to resonate with a diverse audience can be challenging.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:85"><strong>Managing nerves:</strong> Nerves can impact your delivery, making it unclear or rushed.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-27:0"><strong>Avoiding jargon:</strong> Breaking technical habits and simplifying language requires constant awareness.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="28:1-28:22"><strong>Improving Clarity:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="30:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="30:1-30:117"><strong>Practice and rehearse:</strong> The more you rehearse your speech, the more natural and clear your delivery will become.</li> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:107"><strong>Seek feedback:</strong> Share your draft speech with others and ask for feedback on clarity and comprehension.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:161"><strong>Consider a public speaking coach:</strong> A coach can provide personalized guidance on structuring your message, simplifying language, and improving your delivery.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:128"><strong>Join a public speaking group:</strong> Practicing in a supportive environment can help you gain confidence and refine your clarity.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Listen to effective speakers:</strong> Analyze how clear and impactful others achieve communication.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:250"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="36:1-36:250"><strong>Clarity</strong> is a cornerstone of impactful <strong>public speaking</strong>. By honing your message, focusing on delivery, and actively seeking feedback, you can ensure your audience receives your message clearly and leaves a lasting impression.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/clarity/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">clarity and simplicity. Both Schmidt and Sinek captivate audiences with straightforward messages enhanced by visuals (slides or whiteboard) that support, not overpower, their narratives. The lesson: ditch complexity, focus on your core message, and deliver it with a conviction for maximum impact.
Effective group presentations require thorough rehearsal, clean transitions, and speaker handovers. Recap your section, introduce the next speaker, and gesture towards them to link sections and keep the audience engaged.
Ditch the podium! Move around the stage to grab attention, connect with listeners, and emphasize key points. Strategic shifts in location signal transitions, while your energy and passion come alive through purposeful movement. Make your presentation dynamic and memorable – get moving!
To master the “remaining method,” Briefly introduce the controversy, dive deep with your side (logos & pathos!), acknowledge and dissect opposing solutions, and then unveil your “remaining solution” as the superior answer. Wrap up with a strong summary and a call to action. Guide your audience, earn trust, and win them over!
Ditch the dry facts! Captivate your audience with stories. Use classic structures like the hero’s journey or jump into the action with “in media res.” Craft your narrative with a clear plot, relatable characters, and a consistent tone. Tie it all back to your key points for maximum impact. Storytelling makes presentations memorable, engaging, and impactful – go forth and win hearts (and minds)!
Hook them, hit them, fix them! Problem-solution presentations start with a clear pain point, delve deep with causes and impacts (think logic and emotions!), and then unveil your solution as the hero and its amazing benefits. Finish with a call to action – tell them what to do next! Simple, powerful, persuasive.
Forget the slides; show and tell! Demo presentations explain the “what” and “why” of your product, then dazzle with a live showcase. Highlight problem-solving and potential uses to keep them hooked. Leave them curious and wanting more with a glimpse of what your product can truly do. It’s all about interactive understanding and engagement!
Q&A isn’t just an add-on! It’s a chance to clear confusion, recap key points, and answer burning questions. Wrapping up the discussion, offering deeper dives, and inviting audience participation – it’s the perfect way to seal the deal and connect with your listeners.
Ditch the tangents and deliver on your promises! The main body is where you unpack your points. Organize it clearly, hit each topic with evidence and examples, summarize as you go, and link your ideas. Keep it focused, relevant, and audience-friendly – take notes, stay on track, and make your impact!
Hook, roadmap, and expectations – that’s your intro! Briefly introduce the topic, explain why it matters and what you’ll cover, and tell the audience how long they’re in for and if they can participate. Set the stage, guide them through, and make them feel comfortable – then dive in!
Get organized, and get remembered! Structure keeps your audience engaged and learning while boosting your Confidence <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:305">In the context of <strong>public speaking</strong>, <strong>confidence</strong> refers to the belief in one's ability to communicate effectively and deliver one's message with clarity and impact. It encompasses various elements, including self-belief, composure, and the ability to manage one's <strong>fear of public speaking</strong>.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:16"><strong>Key Aspects:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-12:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:108"><strong>Self-belief:</strong> A strong conviction in your knowledge, skills, and ability to connect with your audience.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:95"><strong>Composure:</strong> Maintaining calmness and poise under pressure, even in challenging situations.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:100"><strong>Assertiveness:</strong> Expressing your ideas clearly and concisely, avoiding hesitation or self-doubt.</li> <li data-sourcepos="10:1-10:104"><strong>Positive self-talk:</strong> Countering negative thoughts with affirmations and focusing on your strengths.</li> <li data-sourcepos="11:1-12:0"><strong>Strong body language:</strong> Using gestures, posture, and eye contact that project confidence and professionalism.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="13:1-13:27"><strong>Benefits of Confidence:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="15:1-19:0"> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:99"><strong>Reduced anxiety:</strong> Feeling confident helps manage <strong>fear of public speaking</strong> and stage fright.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-16:133"><strong>Engaging delivery:</strong> Confident speakers project their voices, hold eye contact, and connect with their audience more effectively.</li> <li data-sourcepos="17:1-17:137"><strong>Increased persuasiveness:</strong> A confident presentation inspires belief and motivates your audience to listen and remember your message.</li> <li data-sourcepos="18:1-19:0"><strong>Greater impact:</strong> Confidently delivered speeches leave a lasting impression and achieve desired outcomes.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="20:1-20:15"><strong>Challenges:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="22:1-26:0"> <li data-sourcepos="22:1-22:112">Overcoming <strong>fear of public speaking</strong>: Many people experience some level of anxiety when speaking publicly.</li> <li data-sourcepos="23:1-23:101"><strong>Imposter syndrome:</strong> Doubting your abilities and qualifications, even when objectively qualified.</li> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:92"><strong>Negative self-talk:</strong> Internalized criticism and limiting beliefs can hamper confidence.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-26:0"><strong>Past negative experiences:</strong> Unsuccessful presentations or negative feedback can erode confidence.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="27:1-27:24"><strong>Building Confidence:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="29:1-36:0"> <li data-sourcepos="29:1-29:102"><strong>Practice and preparation:</strong> Thoroughly rehearse your speech to feel comfortable with the material.</li> <li data-sourcepos="30:1-30:101"><strong>Visualization:</strong> Imagine yourself delivering a successful presentation with confidence and poise.</li> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:100"><strong>Positive self-talk:</strong> Actively replace negative thoughts with affirmations about your abilities.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:106"><strong>Seek feedback:</strong> Ask trusted individuals for constructive criticism and use it to improve your skills.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:157">Consider a <strong>speaking coach</strong>: Working with a coach can provide personalized guidance and support to address specific challenges and confidence barriers.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-34:114"><strong>Start small:</strong> Gradually increase the size and complexity of your speaking engagements as you gain experience.</li> <li data-sourcepos="35:1-36:0"><strong>Focus on progress:</strong> Celebrate small successes and acknowledge your improvement over time.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="37:1-37:282"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="37:1-37:282"><strong>Confidence</strong> in public speaking is a journey, not a destination. By actively practicing, embracing feedback, and focusing on your strengths, you can overcome <strong>fear of public speaking</strong> and develop the <strong>confidence</strong> to deliver impactful and memorable presentations.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/confidence/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">confidence and delivery. It’s a win-win for both the speaker and the listener!
To be an effective speaker or presenter, you must master how to start a presentation. Learn the basics and dynamics.
Earn persuasive skills and grasp how to start a PowerPoint presentation with the steps and tips above to disseminate the information in a free-lingual way effectively.
I hope you find this helpful; you are free to use these tips for any goals.
You can try Orai , an AI-powered Speech Coach <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:411">A <strong>speech coach</strong> is a trained professional who provides personalized guidance and support to individuals seeking to improve their <strong>public speaking</strong> skills. Whether you aim to <strong>master public speaking</strong> for professional presentations, overcome stage fright, or simply hone your everyday communication, a <strong>speech coach</strong> can tailor their expertise to meet your needs and goals.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:32"><strong>What Does a Speech Coach Do?</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-13:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:124"><strong>Conduct assessments:</strong> Analyze your strengths, weaknesses, and communication style through evaluations and observations.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:149"><strong>Develop personalized plans:</strong> Create a customized roadmap with exercises, techniques, and feedback to address your specific areas of improvement.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:167"><strong>Offer expert instruction:</strong> We will guide you through various aspects of public speaking, including vocal control, body language, content delivery, and overcoming anxiety.</li> <li data-sourcepos="10:1-10:168"><strong>Provide practice opportunities:</strong> Facilitate mock presentations, simulations, and role-playing scenarios to refine your skills in a safe and supportive environment.</li> <li data-sourcepos="11:1-11:114"><strong>Offer constructive feedback:</strong> Identify areas for improvement and suggest strategies for achieving your goals.</li> <li data-sourcepos="12:1-13:0"><strong>Boost confidence and motivation:</strong> Encourage and support you throughout your journey, empowering you to become a confident and impactful communicator.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="14:1-14:40"><strong>Who Can Benefit from a Speech Coach?</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="16:1-20:0"> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-16:174"><strong>Professionals:</strong> Refining public speaking skills can benefit executives, entrepreneurs, salespeople, leaders, and anyone who presents in professional settings.</li> <li data-sourcepos="17:1-17:160"><strong>Students:</strong> Teachers, public speakers, debaters, and students wanting to excel in presentations or classroom settings can gain valuable skills with a coach.</li> <li data-sourcepos="18:1-18:176"><strong>Individuals who fear public speaking:</strong> Coaching can help those who experience anxiety or nervousness when speaking in public develop strategies and gain confidence.</li> <li data-sourcepos="19:1-20:0"><strong>Anyone seeking to improve communication:</strong> A coach can provide guidance to individuals seeking to enhance their communication skills for personal or professional development.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="21:1-21:28"><strong>Types of Speech Coaches:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="23:1-26:0"> <li data-sourcepos="23:1-23:110"><strong>Private coaches:</strong> Work one-on-one with individuals to provide highly personalized attention and feedback.</li> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:130"><strong>Group coaches:</strong> Offer workshops or classes in group settings, often at a lower cost but with less individualized attention.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-26:0"><strong>Specialization coaches:</strong> Some coaches specialize in executive communication, storytelling, or presentation design.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="27:1-27:35"><strong>Finding the Right Speech Coach:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="29:1-33:0"> <li data-sourcepos="29:1-29:91"><strong>Identify your goals:</strong> What areas do you want to improve? What are your specific needs?</li> <li data-sourcepos="30:1-30:109"><strong>Research credentials and experience:</strong> Look for qualified coaches with relevant experience and expertise.</li> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:122"><strong>Consider availability and budget:</strong> Set a budget and explore options that fit your schedule and financial constraints.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-33:0"><strong>Schedule consultations:</strong> Talk to potential coaches to assess their personality, approach, and compatibility with your needs.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="34:1-34:418"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="34:1-34:418">Investing in a <strong>speech coach</strong> can be a transformative experience, enhancing your communication skills, boosting your confidence, and empowering you to achieve your communication goals. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your journey, consider exploring the potential of working with a <strong>speech coach</strong> to unlock your full potential as a communicator and <strong>master public speaking</strong>.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech-coach/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech coach that perfectly suits your budget! They provide instant feedback on you to help with your public speaking needs. Start your free trial with Orai today!
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August 3, 2018 - Dom Barnard
For many people the thought of delivering a presentation is a daunting task and brings about a great deal of nerves . However, if you take some time to understand how effective presentations are structured and then apply this structure to your own presentation, you’ll appear much more confident and relaxed.
Here is our complete guide for structuring your presentation, with examples at the end of the article to demonstrate these points.
If you’ve ever sat through a great presentation, you’ll have left feeling either inspired or informed on a given topic. This isn’t because the speaker was the most knowledgeable or motivating person in the world. Instead, it’s because they know how to structure presentations – they have crafted their message in a logical and simple way that has allowed the audience can keep up with them and take away key messages.
Research has supported this, with studies showing that audiences retain structured information 40% more accurately than unstructured information.
In fact, not only is structuring a presentation important for the benefit of the audience’s understanding, it’s also important for you as the speaker. A good structure helps you remain calm, stay on topic, and avoid any awkward silences.
Generally speaking, there is a natural flow that any decent presentation will follow which we will go into shortly. However, you should be aware that all presentation structures will be different in their own unique way and this will be due to a number of factors, including:
Before choosing the presentation’s structure answer these questions first:
When reading the points below, think critically about what things may cause your presentation structure to be slightly different. You can add in certain elements and add more focus to certain moments if that works better for your speech.
This is the usual flow of a presentation, which covers all the vital sections and is a good starting point for yours. It allows your audience to easily follow along and sets out a solid structure you can add your content to.
Before you start delivering your talk, introduce yourself to the audience and clarify who you are and your relevant expertise. This does not need to be long or incredibly detailed, but will help build an immediate relationship between you and the audience. It gives you the chance to briefly clarify your expertise and why you are worth listening to. This will help establish your ethos so the audience will trust you more and think you’re credible.
Read our tips on How to Start a Presentation Effectively
In the introduction you need to explain the subject and purpose of your presentation whilst gaining the audience’s interest and confidence. It’s sometimes helpful to think of your introduction as funnel-shaped to help filter down your topic:
In this section also explain:
The way you structure your introduction can depend on the amount of time you have been given to present: a sales pitch may consist of a quick presentation so you may begin with your conclusion and then provide the evidence. Conversely, a speaker presenting their idea for change in the world would be better suited to start with the evidence and then conclude what this means for the audience.
Keep in mind that the main aim of the introduction is to grab the audience’s attention and connect with them.
The main body of your talk needs to meet the promises you made in the introduction. Depending on the nature of your presentation, clearly segment the different topics you will be discussing, and then work your way through them one at a time – it’s important for everything to be organised logically for the audience to fully understand. There are many different ways to organise your main points, such as, by priority, theme, chronologically etc.
When planning your presentation write a list of main points you want to make and ask yourself “What I am telling the audience? What should they understand from this?” refining your answers this way will help you produce clear messages.
In presentations the conclusion is frequently underdeveloped and lacks purpose which is a shame as it’s the best place to reinforce your messages. Typically, your presentation has a specific goal – that could be to convert a number of the audience members into customers, lead to a certain number of enquiries to make people knowledgeable on specific key points, or to motivate them towards a shared goal.
Regardless of what that goal is, be sure to summarise your main points and their implications. This clarifies the overall purpose of your talk and reinforces your reason for being there.
Follow these steps:
Conclude your talk by thanking the audience for their time and invite them to ask any questions they may have. As mentioned earlier, personal circumstances will affect the structure of your presentation.
Many presenters prefer to make the Q&A session the key part of their talk and try to speed through the main body of the presentation. This is totally fine, but it is still best to focus on delivering some sort of initial presentation to set the tone and topics for discussion in the Q&A.
The above was a description of a basic presentation, here are some more specific presentation layouts:
Use the demonstration structure when you have something useful to show. This is usually used when you want to show how a product works. Steve Jobs frequently used this technique in his presentations.
This structure is particularly useful in persuading the audience.
As well as incorporating stories in your presentation , you can organise your whole presentation as a story. There are lots of different type of story structures you can use – a popular choice is the monomyth – the hero’s journey. In a monomyth, a hero goes on a difficult journey or takes on a challenge – they move from the familiar into the unknown. After facing obstacles and ultimately succeeding the hero returns home, transformed and with newfound wisdom.
Storytelling for Business Success webinar , where well-know storyteller Javier Bernad shares strategies for crafting compelling narratives.
Another popular choice for using a story to structure your presentation is in media ras (in the middle of thing). In this type of story you launch right into the action by providing a snippet/teaser of what’s happening and then you start explaining the events that led to that event. This is engaging because you’re starting your story at the most exciting part which will make the audience curious – they’ll want to know how you got there.
The remaining method structure is good for situations where you’re presenting your perspective on a controversial topic which has split people’s opinions.
When delivering presentations it’s important for your words and ideas to flow so your audience can understand how everything links together and why it’s all relevant. This can be done using speech transitions which are words and phrases that allow you to smoothly move from one point to another so that your speech flows and your presentation is unified.
Transitions can be one word, a phrase or a full sentence – there are many different forms, here are some examples:
Signify to the audience that you will now begin discussing the first main point:
Move from one point to a similar one:
Internal summarising consists of summarising before moving on to the next point. You must inform the audience:
You can move your body and your standing location when you transition to another point. The audience find it easier to follow your presentation and movement will increase their interest.
A common technique for incorporating movement into your presentation is to:
Slides are a useful tool for most presentations: they can greatly assist in the delivery of your message and help the audience follow along with what you are saying. Key slides include:
There are some presenters who choose not to use slides at all, though this is more of a rarity. Slides can be a powerful tool if used properly, but the problem is that many fail to do just that. Here are some golden rules to follow when using slides in a presentation:
Guy Kawasaki, an entrepreneur and author, suggests that slideshows should follow a 10-20-30 rule :
Here are some additional resources for slide design:
Group presentations are structured in the same way as presentations with one speaker but usually require more rehearsal and practices. Clean transitioning between speakers is very important in producing a presentation that flows well. One way of doing this consists of:
From this example you can see how the different sections of the presentations link which makes it easier for the audience to follow and remain engaged.
Having examples of great presentations will help inspire your own structures, here are a few such examples, each unique and inspiring in their own way.
This presentation by ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt demonstrates some of the most important lessons he and his team have learnt with regards to working with some of the most talented individuals they hired. The simplistic yet cohesive style of all of the slides is something to be appreciated. They are relatively straightforward, yet add power and clarity to the narrative of the presentation.
Since being released in 2009, this presentation has been viewed almost four million times all around the world. The message itself is very powerful, however, it’s not an idea that hasn’t been heard before. What makes this presentation so powerful is the simple message he is getting across, and the straightforward and understandable manner in which he delivers it. Also note that he doesn’t use any slides, just a whiteboard where he creates a simple diagram of his opinion.
Here’s an example of a presentation given by a relatively unknown individual looking to inspire the next generation of graduates. Rick’s presentation is unique in many ways compared to the two above. Notably, he uses no visual prompts and includes a great deal of humour.
However, what is similar is the structure he uses. He first introduces his message that the wisest man he knew was a third-grade dropout. He then proceeds to deliver his main body of argument, and in the end, concludes with his message. This powerful speech keeps the viewer engaged throughout, through a mixture of heart-warming sentiment, powerful life advice and engaging humour.
As you can see from the examples above, and as it has been expressed throughout, a great presentation structure means analysing the core message of your presentation. Decide on a key message you want to impart the audience with, and then craft an engaging way of delivering it.
By preparing a solid structure, and practising your talk beforehand, you can walk into the presentation with confidence and deliver a meaningful message to an interested audience.
It’s important for a presentation to be well-structured so it can have the most impact on your audience. An unstructured presentation can be difficult to follow and even frustrating to listen to. The heart of your speech are your main points supported by evidence and your transitions should assist the movement between points and clarify how everything is linked.
Research suggests that the audience remember the first and last things you say so your introduction and conclusion are vital for reinforcing your points. Essentially, ensure you spend the time structuring your presentation and addressing all of the sections.
Table of Contents
Knowing how to start a presentation is a crucial skill in today’s professional landscape.
After all, many office workers are called on to prepare a presentation at some point during their careers.
And, of course, many people are looking to share their expertise through workshops and lectures.
With that in mind, we wanted to dedicate an article to learning about the best ways to deliver an impactful presentation opening.
So, whether you’re currently struggling to come up with introductory lines for a presentation, or you have a more passive interest in this subject — you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll:
But first, let’s talk about why having a good introduction is such a crucial part of any presentation.
If you’ve ever had to prepare an address, you probably understand the importance of having an impactful introduction to a presentation.
If the body of a speech contains most of the information you want to share with the audience and the conclusion allows you to invite the audience to take action — the introduction is how you get them to listen to you in the first place.
In other words, a presentation is a motivated sequence — a method of persuasion with 5 distinct steps:
Even though this framework was developed in the 1930s, it’s still a useful tool for people who want to improve their presenting skills.
For more insight into the importance of starting a presentation with a bang, we turned to professional speakers and communication experts.
We put the question to Mark Beal , Assistant Professor of Professional Practice, Communication, at Rutgers University School of Communication and Information. Here’s what he had to say:
“It is critically important to engage your audience immediately at the start of a presentation in a high-energy manner, or you could lose them to their mobile phone or laptop and you may never get them back.”
Speaker, author, communication skills trainer, and editorial producer at CNN, Nadia Bilchik , added:
“The beginning of your presentation is your prime real estate. It’s when your audience decides if you are worth paying attention to or not.”
So, in addition to capturing the audience’s attention , your introduction also needs to establish your authority .
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Having said that, let’s talk about the specific steps you need to take before you begin presenting to make your presentation opening as memorable as it can be.
Before we tell you how to start a presentation speech, let’s take a moment to consider the best preparation practices .
Naturally, preparing the introductory lines for your presentation should take place well before the speech itself.
Even so, many novice speakers are still unaware of the different factors that should influence and inform their decisions in this regard.
Luckily, we have managed to boil the results of our extensive research down to the following 3 tips:
Having said that, let’s see what each of those tips entails.
As Napoleon Hill, author of Think and Grow Rich , puts it:
“Experience has taught me that the next best thing to being truly great is to emulate the great, by feeling and action, as nearly as possible.”
With that in mind, the best thing you can do before drafting your speech is observe the way others have made theirs.
In this case, you’ll want to focus on the way professional speakers introduce themselves and the subjects of their presentations .
The goal of this exercise is to determine:
Somewhere in the middle of those categories is where you’ll find the opening lines of your presentation.
For their part, the experts we have contacted seem to agree with this tip.
Nadia Bilchik said:
“I have been speaking and training speaking skills for three decades and I still do a tremendous amount of research and customize each and every presentation. If I am speaking […] about the hybrid workplace, I will Google [the] latest statistics. I will also go onto YouTube to see what other speakers and thought leaders are saying about the subject.”
And Mark Beal mirrored her thoughts:
“I am consistently studying presentations in a quest to be a student who is always learning, evolving, transforming, and innovating my approach to presenting. I closely watch all types of presentations, from TEDx Talks to my former students who return to guest lecture in my university courses.”
According to the other authors of Communicating at Work , an introduction has 5 distinct objectives . It should:
With those goals in mind, Nadia Bilchik would even say that:
“It’s always best to have someone else introduce you and confirm your credibility.”
That puts the onus of explaining why you deserve to be there on the host of the meeting and allows you to skip that part of the introduction.
However, these 5 objectives are not a checklist you have to follow at all costs.
Depending on the circumstances surrounding your presentation, some of them will matter more than others.
Speaking of, there’s one last thing to keep in mind when crafting your presentation opening.
The audience you end up presenting to will affect everything from the way you organize your presentation to your style of delivery — and even the supporting materials you use.
Your presentation’s opening lines are no exception.
In other words, the content and style of your introduction will depend on the size of the group you’re speaking to and its demographic breakdown .
However, perhaps the most important audience attribute you’ll have to keep in mind is its willingness to listen and engage with your message .
In Business Communication: Process & Product , authors Mary Guffey and Dana Loewy have identified 4 types of audiences based on that factor:
Luckily, Guffey and Loewy have also provided some guidance for dealing with each of those kinds of audiences.
AUDIENCE TYPE | ||
---|---|---|
– Be warm and pleasant – Include humor and personal experiences – Involve the audience – Try something new | / | |
– Be confident – Use subtle gestures – Use facts, statistics, and expert opinions – Present both sides of an issue – Save time for audience questions | – Do anything showy – Use humor or rely on personal stories – Show flashy visuals | |
– Be brief — no more than 3 points – Be dynamic and entertaining – Move around and use large gestures – Fall back on humor, cartoons, colorful visuals, and interesting statistics | – Bore the audience – Darken the room – Stand motionless – Pass out handouts – Use boring visuals – Expect audience participation | |
– Be calm and controlled – Speak evenly and slowly – Stick to objective data and expert opinions | – Use personal examples and humor – Allow Q&A segments without a moderator |
It’s the day of your big presentation — time to go big or go home.
Which of the following tips would you incorporate in your presentation opening lines?
If you haven’t thought about which one of these would help you get your point across effectively — don’t worry.
We’re about to explain each of those tips and provide some illuminating examples and specific phrases you can use when starting a presentation.
One thing you need to know about starting a presentation is that your work begins the moment you set foot on that stage .
Alternatively, it begins the moment someone passes you the (literal or figurative) mic — if we’re taking into account the presentations that take place on video conferencing platforms.
In any case, you’ll want the audience to see you as someone who knows what they’re talking about . That includes:
One of the experts we spoke to, Reesa Woolf , PhD, keynote speaker, bestselling author, and executive speaking coach, would even advise you to rehearse your opener and closer to the point of being able to “deliver them with 100% eye contact.”
For what it’s worth, overpreparing also allows you to appear more confident when presenting , as you’ll be less worried about forgetting parts of your speech.
Then again, a moment of forgetfulness can also be turned into a tool for establishing a commanding presence.
Namely, staying still or being quiet for a moment can make the audience pay closer attention to you.
But, if that’s something you’d like to try, make sure the technique doesn’t clash with the type of audience you’re presenting to .
Have you ever heard a professional public speaker use one of these phrases?
The chances of a professional using these phrases are pretty slim — so why would you?
Well, there’s nothing wrong with following a traditional format to introduce yourself .
However, you’ll have to admit that the sentences we have listed above don’t pack the same punch as some of the other presentation opening lines we have included in this article.
Keynote speaker, Forbes contributor, career change consultant, and host of the Career Relaunch® podcast, Joseph Liu , recommends avoiding greetings altogether .
“While I do say hello, rather than starting with drawn-out greetings, I recommend diving right into the presentation with a hook so your audience immediately switches on to the content you’re about to present.”
Speaker, bestselling author, and award-winning accountant, Tatiana Tsoir , notes:
“People’s attention span is 20 minutes max, which is why TEDx is capped at 18 min. Also, people generally remember the beginning and the end, so make sure those are strong [and] get to the point fast.”
So, instead of wasting time on small talk, use an opener that will get your audience’s attention as quickly as possible.
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Even though the examples we have listed would be considered a weak way to start a speech, some of them are ideal for starting a business meeting. If you want to know some other expressions that might come in handy in that kind of setting, check out this article:
As we have established, starting a presentation with a traditional introduction may not be the best way to get the audience’s attention.
Still, you’ll have to establish your credibility at some point — so we might as well illustrate how to do so properly.
Of course, if you’re a teacher or an educator in broader terms, you probably won’t have to prove your expertise to your audience.
However, if you’re tasked with presenting in front of neutral or hostile audiences, you’ll want to establish your qualifications as soon as possible.
If you can’t get someone else to introduce you and establish your credibility before you start your presentation, we suggest hooking the audience first and then introducing yourself right before you head into the main part of the speech.
We have come up with 3 imaginary presentation scenarios to help illustrate our points throughout this guide.
Here’s how our speakers might introduce themselves:
“Hello, everyone. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m Nick Mulder, the head of the security department. I’m here to talk to you about phishing.”
“My name is Joan Miller. As someone with over four decades of experience in marketing, I’m uniquely qualified to talk to you about how artificial intelligence is changing the future of the industry.”
“I’m Milo Green — you probably know me as being the founder of Green & Co. As someone who’s had a hand in running a successful business for over two decades, I’m here to explain how my company’s employee retention rate has never fallen below 85% in a single year.”
If these speakers started with a hook rather than an introduction, the sentences introducing the subject of their presentations would be excessive.
So far, there’s been a lot of discussion about “hooks” in this article and not many specific examples of phrases that might hook an audience — let’s change that.
The first type of hook you might want to master, especially for professional presentations, is the “promise.”
One of the experts we have spoken to, Reesa Wolf, uses that very method:
“Begin with a brief statement about the benefits of listening to [your] message. You can give an example of a company or person like them that had the issue they have and how these ideas solved it, but it still must be brief.”
In other words, start by giving them a preview of the knowledge they’ll have by the time you finish your presentation.
This method of starting a presentation is a great way to:
Ultimately, audiences are self-interested — they will listen to you if you explain what’s in it for them.
Usually, that will require you to point out a problem they are having or an opportunity they’re not taking advantage of.
To put this tip in perspective, let’s hear from our imaginary presenters:
“By the end of my talk, you’ll be able to spot phishing emails and understand the steps you need to take when you do.”
“My presentation will alleviate any worries you might have about the ways the marketing sector will need to adapt to the AI revolution.”
“During this talk, you’ll learn how your company can improve its relationship with its employees and boost its retention rate.”
One thing you should note as you are writing your presentation opening is that the first words you say will set the tone for the rest of your speech .
If offering a realistic promise to your audience suits your presentation subject — by all means, do so.
However, if you’d like to induce excitement and keep your audience’s mood elevated throughout your presentation, you might want to go for a more dramatic entrance instead.
Namely, you could start with:
Many speakers rely on these kinds of openers to establish the central theme of their presentation naturally .
After all, this method can make the speaker look more approachable and relatable , particularly if their opening line references other people (e.g. “the other day, I met someone/a coworker told me…” ).
One example of this technique comes from author, entrepreneur, and certified fraud examiner, Pamela Meyer, who famously started her TED Talk by pointing to an audience member and saying:
“Okay, now, I don’t want to alarm anybody in this room, but it’s just come to my attention that the person to your right is a liar. Also, the person to your left is a liar! Also, the person sitting in your very seat is a liar.”
The combination of starting her speech with such a shocking statement and pointing out a specific audience member makes Meyer’s TED Talk an iconic one in our books!
Now, let’s see how our imaginary speakers would apply this tip:
“1,270,883! What do you think that number signifies? If you guessed ‘the number of phishing attacks recorded in the third quarter of 2022’ — you’d be right! We have the Anti-Phishing Working Group to thank for that disturbing piece of trivia.”
“Artificial intelligence is coming for our jobs! At least, according to Chat GPT and Business Insider , people working in tech, media, law, and many other industries might want to look elsewhere for employment in the coming years.”
“When I first started my company, I did it with about 20 of my most trusted friends and advisers. I’m happy to report that all but two are still working for Green & Co. — and those two are only absent because they’ve started their own successful ventures! In any case, my wish to surround myself with high-quality people has manifested itself in the company’s high employee retention rates. Today, I’m going to tell you about how I created an environment that makes employees want to stick around.”
When in doubt, you could always start the introduction to your presentation with a quote.
As long as you don’t overuse other peoples’ words in your speeches, quotations are a completely legitimate and convenient tool for introducing the topic you’ll be discussing.
Aside from being a tried and true method of getting people’s attention without having to string together a perfect sentence on your own, quoting a particularly impressive individual is a good way to “borrow” their authority .
However, that can also be a double-edged sword , since it can also give you the individual’s notoriety. So, make sure you know whose words you’re echoing.
Of course, some people would advise you to avoid quotes altogether.
Assistant Professor of Rhetorical Communication at the State University of New York, Dr. Lee M. Pierce , cautions against starting your presentation “with quotes or long personal stories.”
Doing so might bore the audience.
Then again, Dr. Pierce also enjoys using pop culture references as openers, saying:
“By choosing a pop culture reference that most of your audience gets, you build instant rapport and have something you can use to ease them into your presentation material.”
So, perhaps there’s still a way to work a quote into your presentation, as long as it fits the mood you’re trying to establish.
If your presentation happens to be about team communication or collaboration, you may find the perfect quote to use in your introduction in one of these articles:
So, how would our three fictional speakers incorporate quotations in their opening lines? Let’s find out.
“According to Harper Reed, entrepreneur and Chief Technology Officer for Barack Obama’s re-election campaign, ‘Very smart people are often tricked by hackers, by phishing.’ So it’s not about being smart. It’s about being smarter than a hacker.’ And I’m here to help you get there.”
“Stephen Hawking once said that ‘Success in creating AI would be the biggest event in human history. Unfortunately,’ he said, ‘it might also be the last, unless we know how to avoid the risks.’ I’m here to alleviate your concerns about those risks.”
“When I was developing my management style, I often referred back to one particular quote by Max DePree, founder of Herman Miller. He said, ‘The first responsibility of a leader is to define reality. The last is to say thank you. In between, the leader is a servant.’ That sentiment clarified my function for me — even though I was the CEO of my company, I was primarily there to help my employees.”
If you want to make sure your audience understands what you’re talking about, you could also show the quote on the first slide of your presentation.
Using relevant, interesting statistics is another great way to introduce the topic of your presentation.
This tip could also be an excellent tool for establishing your qualifications, if you decide to share a statistic that proves the efficacy of the solution you’re presenting.
Just keep in mind that people tend to trust third-party sources more than a potentially unverifiable statistic coming from your organization’s internal research.
Let’s see how our three presenters might incorporate this tip.
“According to APWG, the number of wire transfer Business Email Compromise (BEC) attacks increased by 59% in the third quarter of 2022.”
“Netflix took 3.5 years to reach a million users. Facebook took 10 months. ChatGPT, which has been dubbed the best AI chatbot ever released by New York Times, reached its first million users in only 5 days. By January 2023, over 100 million people had used the service.”
“According to the 2022 Workplace Learning Report from LinkedIn Learning, companies that enable their employees to advance internally retain employees for an average of 5.4 years. That’s nearly twice as long as companies that struggle to provide opportunities for internal mobility, where the average retention span is 2.9 years.”
And, if you wanted to go the extra mile, you could also represent the statistics you’re talking about with a visual element.
Once you start researching public speakers, you’ll find that many of them engage their audience by asking questions .
It goes back to the concept of “hooking” your audience. According to Joseph Liu:
“The best way to start a presentation is with a hook. For example, ask a question. Invite people to do something. Have your audience imagine a situation. Or, surprise them with an interesting fact.”
Indeed, most of the experts we have spoken to would confirm that questions are the best tool for increasing audience participation . As Nadia Bilchik would say:
“ I like to ask my audience a question. […] the key is to invite participation from the start. ”
With that in mind, there are 2 types of questions you can use, depending on the situation:
Either way, the questions should prompt the audience to start thinking about the subject of your lecture.
Our resident phishing expert might ask his audience one of the following questions:
“How do you protect your company from phishing attacks?”
“Let’s see a show of hands — how many of you know what phishing is?”
“Has anyone here fallen prey to a phishing attack?”
Joan Miller, the digital marketer we have envisioned, might ask:
“Who here is already using AI to conduct their business?”
“Will your company survive the AI revolution?”
“Would you rather incorporate AI into your marketing strategy or continue doing business as usual? Think carefully about this question — and use the link I’m about to send you to tell me your answers. By the end of my presentation, I’ll run this question by you again, and we’ll see how the results of the poll have changed.”
Lastly, our imaginary CEO might ask his audience:
“Does your company’s employee retention rate matter?”
“How are you making your company a desirable place to work?”
”Can anyone here tell me their company’s employee retention rate?”
If you sense that your audience isn’t in the mood to take in the kind of presentation you have prepared, you can prime them for it with humor.
Cracking a joke at the top of your presentation sets the scene for a lighthearted conversation and makes you appear confident (even if you’re not). Additionally, a well-placed joke can:
But, humor is an art form — and not everyone has the talent and skill to execute this tip effectively. If it doesn’t come naturally, there’s no need to force it.
When in doubt, take a page out of the comedian’s playbook and run your opening joke by a friend or, better yet, a more neutral acquaintance.
Of course, even if your joke works on them, you can’t always account for cultural or even professional differences that might prevent some people in the audience from getting it.
The 3 speakers we have imagined might use the following jokes to kick off their presentations:
“Can anyone tell me a hacker’s favorite season? Phishing season, of course! Unfortunately, in real life, phishing season is more of a year-round kind of thing.”
“Why are people so nice to AI? Because it’s self-conscious! Just kidding. For now… Actually, I have good news and bad news. The bad news is that AI does seem to be gaining traction, particularly in the marketing industry. But, the good news is that I’m here to tell you how to navigate that situation.”
“Did you know that staff retention is more likely to be improved by offering better working conditions than by chaining employees to their desks? Much to think about!”
Most of these examples would pair wonderfully with a visual element — which brings us to our final tip!
Different speakers have different approaches when it comes to the visual aspects of their presentations.
Some rely on their speech to get most of the information across. Yet, others prefer to make their presentation slides a more integral part of their presentation.
We imagine Joseph Liu would sort himself into the latter group:
“I tend to keep my presentations as visual as possible, relying less on quotes and more on imagery.”
If you decide to let visuals do some of the heavy lifting for your presentation, there are several ways to incorporate them. Namely, you could:
The type of visuals you end up using will depend on the type of presentation you’re giving.
Either way, you’ll want to become familiar with different elements of visual communication (such as colors, shapes, fonts, and layouts) if you want to make your presentation truly memorable.
Visual communication is one of 4 types of communication. If you’re curious about what the other 3 types of communication are and how we use them in our everyday lives, check out the following article:
Going back to our 3 speakers, let’s see how they might incorporate visual elements into their presentation introductions.
“According to APWG, these are the most targeted industries for phishing scams in the third quarter of 2022.”
“The following demonstration of AI’s capabilities might change some of your outlooks on the future of marketing. I have shared my computer screen with you all, so let’s take a moment to see where this tech is at right now through a demonstration of the existing software.”
“Before I start my presentation, let’s look at a video showcasing the importance of having a high employee retention rate.”
You could also combine this tip with the others on our list , by saying something like:
Having concluded our list of tips, we wanted to see how the experts we have spoken to have put them into practice.
So, let’s start with the way they conceptualize and write their presentation starting lines.
Every memorable presentation starts with a written copy of everything you want to say.
According to Tatiana Tsoir:
“Developing a speech is a craft. I generally work first on who the audience is , then my core message I want them to walk away with, then the outline of the speech : how and when I introduce the main idea, and how I make a case for it and reiterate it throughout.”
Ultimately, the best time to write your presentation introduction would be once you have a clear idea of everything you want to say in the body and conclusion of your speech.
Even so, sticking to this advice won’t make you a better speaker immediately.
Instead, our experts have stressed that the only way to get better at presenting is through practice and repetition .
Take it from Tatiana:
“With public impactful speaking you don’t rise to the occasion, you fall back on training and practice.”
As you are drafting your presentation introduction, keep in mind that the audience is already waiting for you to get to the point.
When in doubt, follow Reesa Woolf’s formula for starting a presentation:
“Open with the attention-catching statement/story/quotation. Once they look at you, say your name and the parts of your experience and credentials that THEY would be most impressed by, at most 3 things about you.”
After delivering your opener and introducing yourself, you’ll want to quickly transition into the main part of your presentation.
As we have previously mentioned, many of the experts we have contacted stressed the importance of increasing audience engagement.
Knowing your audience is a big part of that equation, as Dr. Lee M. Pierce would testify:
“Presentations should take advantage of what makes them unique — having an audience. Engage them, [and] introduce yourself. Just don’t start with a question right away — that’s asking too much too soon.”
Then again, many of the experts we have spoken to have said that asking questions is a good way to invite audience participation.
For example, Nadia Bilchik would even engage her audiences on a more physical level:
“I like to ask my audience a thought-provoking question. This gets them from passive to active mode. I also always get my audience to stand up and do a breathing exercise.”
Nadia also provided us with an example of an audience interaction she might use in the introduction of her speaking engagements. For example, she might ask the audience:
“ How do you rate your ability to present information in a concise, clear, and confident manner? High, medium, or low?”
After receiving her answers by a show of hands or even an online poll, she connects the response to the topic of her presentation by stating:
“Wherever you are on the spectrum, in the next X minutes, I will share tips and techniques to ensure you have a greater impact every time you communicate to an audience of one or 100!”
That’s a textbook opener you can use to introduce the topics of your own presentation, too!
Remember, nothing is stopping you from combining the tips we have mentioned throughout this guide to create a presentation introduction that is wholly unique to you.
If you’re unsure how to do that, let’s analyze a professional speaker’s technique.
Mark Beal told us about a presentation opening he’s created for his lectures:
“I start each of my Gen Z keynote presentations by physically walking off the stage and into the audience and asking a series of Gen Z trivia questions.
For those who answer the questions directly, I reward them with a copy of my latest Gen Z book. By taking this proactive approach, I physically engage the audience immediately not from the podium but in their seats.
My presentation instantly transforms from a one-way monologue into a two-way conversation and the audience begins to learn about my topic, Gen Z, in a fun and informative way.”
Can you connect the strategies Mark has used with the tips we have discussed? Let’s list them:
When you start researching famous speakers to prepare for your presentation, try dissecting the strategies they’re using.
As you have seen above, it is crucial to conceptualize and think of your presentation’s starting lines.
To check if everything is fine, you can reach out to your colleagues via direct messages or dedicated channels and ask them for their opinions.
Your colleagues might provide some useful tips that will help you further improve your presentation in threads , just below your message or post.
As Dr Lee M. Pearce pinpoints, having the right audience for the presentation is important. Hence, we recommend scheduling a video call so your closest colleagues and invited guests can see your new presentation and its opening lines, and provide suggestions, if necessary.
Of course, Pumble also comes in handy when it comes to holding presentations — thanks to its screen sharing feature that allows you to present to the entire meeting.
Finally, Pumble has an unlimited message history , so every message or file you have sent will forever stay in your message history. That might come in handy if you ever have to work on a similar presentation in the future.
Secure, real-time communication for professionals.
Olga Milicevic is a communication researcher and author dedicated to making your professional life a bit easier. She believes that everyone should have the tools necessary to respond to their coworkers’ requests and communicate their own professional needs clearly and kindly.
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Blog > How to start a presentation successfully + Free slides template
04.08.2022 • #powerpoint #template.
The introduction of a presentation is of enormous importance. The first slide of your presentation decides whether you can capture the attention of your audience. A good and structured design is the key in a presentation. Templates are available for all kinds of occasions and types of presentations that cost little or are even free. An extraordinary design of the title slide stands out and makes your presentation special. This shows that you have spent time and effort on the design. It's important to find the appropriate design for your presentation.
In this blog post, you will learn everything about a successful presentation introduction. In addition, we have created a template with welcome slides for you, which you can download for free.
But not only the visual design of your presentation is important, also the linguistic presentation matters. Have you ever thought about how to start your presentation so that you immediately raise the attention of your audience? Here are 8 tips for a successful presentation introduction to make your presentation a memorable one.
Attract attention.
A very helpful concept is the so-called AIDA formula. AIDA means Attention, Interest, Desire and Action.
A popular way to start a presentation is to ask questions. Rhetorical questions and "what if" questions are always well received because they make you think. There are 6 different types of questions that will spice up your presentation:
Question | Desired effect | Example |
Rhetorical question | Clarify areas of agreement and common ground, clear answer | "Do you want to give a good presentation?" |
Circular question | Changing perspective, empathizing | "How would your audience feel about your presentation?" |
Hypothetical question | Stimulus to think | "What if you had not found these tips?" |
Solution question | Stimulus to think about finding solutions with existing resources | "How many slides do you need to find a perfect attention span?" |
Paradox question | Presenting a problem to find a solution path | "How many more listeners do you want to lose?" |
Arouse curiosity, conduct polls, use a visual background, related articles, about the author.
Hannah Kelih
Hannah is dedicated to graphics and illustrations. At SlideLizard she supports the design team with her creative ideas.
Do you want to make your presentations more interactive.
With SlideLizard you can engage your audience with live polls, questions and feedback . Directly within your PowerPoint Presentation. Learn more
for your PowerPoint Presentations
Virtual audience.
A virtual audience consist of people who join an event / a meeting / a presentation via an electronic device (computer or smartphone) over the Internet. Each member may be located in a different place while an event takes place. Virtual audiences are becoming increasingly important as the amount of events held online is rising.
Diagonal communication means that the employees of a company communicate with each other regardless of their function and their level in the organisational hierarchy and regardless of their department within the company.
Game-based learning is a popular approach where the instrument for a learning process is a game. Game-based learning scenarios are often found online - they are often favored because they engage learners in a way that few other learning methods do.
Audience Dynamics means the motivations, attitudes, beliefs and values, which influence the listener's behaviour.
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Stressed about an upcoming presentation? These talks are full of helpful tips on how to get up in front of an audience and make a lasting impression.
Learn how to write a successful elevator pitch with our template and examples.
Bharti Jain
Building presentations
We’ve all been there – those brief, unexpected moments when you find yourself face-to-face with someone who could change the trajectory of your career. It could happen in an elevator, at a networking event, or even in line for coffee. In these fleeting moments, having a sharp, persuasive elevator pitch can make all the difference. But how do you distill the essence of your idea, product, or service into just a minute or two? How do you ensure your message is compelling enough to spark interest and leave a lasting impression?
Crafting a powerful elevator pitch deck is both an art and a science. It requires clarity, brevity, and a deep understanding of what makes your proposition unique. Whether you're seeking investment, pitching a new idea to your boss, or simply trying to network, a well-crafted elevator pitch can open doors and create opportunities you never thought possible. T his article delves into the essentials of creating an engaging elevator pitch presentation, offering practical tips, examples, and insightful case studies to guide you through the process.
An elevator pitch is your golden opportunity to make a first impression – a brief, persuasive speech designed to spark interest in what you or your organization does. The name comes from the idea that it should be short enough to deliver during a quick elevator ride, typically ranging from 30 seconds to 2 minutes.
The essence of an elevator pitch lies in its ability to convey your value quickly and effectively, making the listener want to know more. Think of it as your verbal business card, a snapshot of who you are, what you offer, and why it matters.
Creating a great elevator pitch deck involves several key components. Each element plays a critical role in ensuring your message is clear, engaging, and memorable.
Your hook is the opening statement designed to grab attention. It should be intriguing and relevant, making your audience want to hear more. This is where you set the tone for your pitch, so it needs to be compelling. You might start with a surprising statistic, a thought-provoking question, or a bold statement. The goal is to spark curiosity and draw your listener into your narrative. An effective hook not only captures interest but also sets the stage for the rest of your pitch.
The Problem
Next, you need to clearly define the problem your idea, product, or service addresses. This shows that you understand the pain points of your target audience and sets the stage for your solution. By articulating the problem, you demonstrate empathy and insight into your audience’s needs. This step is crucial because it establishes relevance and makes your listener care about what you’re about to present. The more specific and relatable the problem, the more engaged your audience will be.
The Solution
Now that you've laid out the problem, it’s time to describe how your offering solves it. This is your chance to highlight the unique features and benefits of your solution. You should explain what makes your approach different and why it’s the best option available. Be clear and concise, focusing on the value your solution brings. This part of your pitch should make your listener see the potential impact of your offering and envision how it can address their needs or challenges.
Identifying your target market and the potential for growth demonstrates that there is a demand for your solution and that you have a clear focus. This shows that you’ve done your homework and understand the landscape in which you’re operating. Discussing your market also helps to build credibility, as it indicates that you have a realistic and informed view of your business environment. It’s important to convey who your ideal customers are and why they need your solution.
The Value Proposition
Your value proposition is the specific benefit your solution brings to the table. This could be cost savings, time efficiency, or any other advantage that sets you apart from competitors. Your value proposition should be compelling and easy to understand, making it clear why your audience should be interested. It’s about communicating the unique benefits that make your offering stand out and why it’s worth considering. This part of your pitch needs to resonate strongly with your audience’s needs and desires.
The Call to Action
Finally, conclude with a clear call to action. What do you want your audience to do next? Whether it’s scheduling a meeting, visiting your website, or trying your product, your call to action should be direct and achievable. This step is essential because it guides your listener towards the next steps and keeps the momentum going. A strong call to action turns interest into action and opens the door for continued engagement.
Crafting each of these components thoughtfully and integrating them seamlessly into your pitch can make all the difference. Remember, the goal is to leave a lasting impression and to make your listener want to learn more about what you have to offer.
The length of an elevator pitch can vary depending on the context, but the general rule is that it should be short enough to deliver in the time it takes to ride an elevator, hence the name. This typically means:
Attention spans are shorter than ever!
These days, most people have a limited amount of time to devote to any single interaction, especially in casual settings. By keeping your pitch short, you respect your listener’s time and increase the chances of maintaining their attention. A concise pitch helps ensure that your key points are heard and remembered.
Clarity is crucial
Brevity forces you to distill your message down to its most essential components. This clarity is crucial because it helps you avoid overwhelming your listener with unnecessary details. When you focus on the core of your message, it becomes easier for your audience to grasp and retain the information. A clear and concise pitch ensures that your value proposition is understood and appreciated.
To be remembered
A well-crafted, succinct pitch is more likely to be remembered and repeated. When you deliver a concise pitch, you make it easier for your listener to recall and share your message with others. This memorability can lead to further discussions and opportunities as your pitch lingers in the minds of those who hear it. A memorable pitch increases the likelihood of follow-up conversations and actions.
Creating an effective elevator pitch presentation involves structuring your content into concise and engaging sections to capture and maintain your audience's attention. Here's a breakdown of the sections, much like a seasoned novelist would, ensuring each part leaves your audience eager for more.
Starting your elevator pitch with a strong introduction sets the tone for the entire presentation. Instead of resorting to startling statements that might distract rather than engage, aim for a natural, informative opening that captures the essence of your business.
Begin by introducing your business name and providing a concise summary in no more than two sentences. This brief overview should give a clear snapshot of what your business does. If relevant, include a breakdown of your top three products or services to give a quick glimpse of your offerings. Clearly defining your target audience is essential unless it is evident, such as in the case of social media platforms that cater to everyone.
Make sure this introduction is brief and to the point—ideally, no more than 18 seconds or 36 words. This ensures the potential investor or listener grasps the core of your business swiftly and effectively.
💡 Pro tip: Consider beginning with a thought-provoking question or an interesting fact for an extra engaging start. This can serve as a powerful hook that draws your audience in from the outset. You can then follow this with your concise introduction on the next slide.
Example 1 - Starting with a Question
Example 2 - Starting with a Hook or Interesting Fact
In this section, your goal is to clearly articulate the problem your business aims to solve. This could be a single, significant issue, a series of smaller but related challenges, or one main problem broken down into a few key components.
The primary objective here is to show that you have a deep understanding of the challenge at hand. Clearly define the problem in a way that is straightforward and easy to grasp. Then, seamlessly transition into presenting your solution. The more straightforward and understandable your explanation, the more compelling it will be.
Whether you focus on one major issue or a few interconnected ones, make sure your audience can see the relevance and urgency of the problem. This sets the stage for you to introduce your innovative solution, highlighting how it effectively addresses the challenge. Simplicity and clarity are your allies that make a strong impact.
💡 Pro tip: Use real-life examples or data to illustrate the problem. This not only makes the issue more tangible but also adds credibility to your pitch. When your audience can see the real-world impact of the problem, your solution becomes even more compelling.
Potential investors are drawn to opportunities that promise significant returns. Therefore, it's crucial to illustrate the scale of the opportunity your business presents and provide insights into the competitive landscape. This gives investors an immediate sense of whether your venture is worth their time and resources.
By detailing the market size, you demonstrate the potential for growth and the vast possibilities for your business. Additionally, highlighting your understanding of the competition shows that you are well-prepared and have a clear strategy to stand out in the market. This dual focus on opportunity and competition sets a solid foundation for investors to see the viability and potential profitability of their investment.
💡 Pro tip: Use visual aids like charts and graphs to present market size and competitive analysis. Visual representations can make complex data more digestible and impactful, helping investors quickly grasp the potential and positioning of your business.
A concise elevator pitch slide on your business model can quickly show investors how you plan to generate revenue. When your business strategy is clear and compelling, it significantly increases the likelihood of attracting investors. Presenting a well-defined business model demonstrates that you have a thoughtful and viable plan for profitability, making your venture more appealing and reducing perceived risks.
💡 Pro tip: Include key metrics and financial projections to back up your business model. Showing potential revenue streams, cost structures, and profitability timelines with concrete numbers can add credibility and help investors understand the financial potential of your business.
In this section, your goal is to showcase what makes your company unique and how it stands out from the competition. This is a crucial moment where potential investors decide whether to delve deeper into your business.
If you can capture their interest here, the chances of securing a follow-up meeting and, ultimately, funding increase significantly.
💡 Pro tip: You have a maximum of 20 seconds to highlight your USP, so keep your information concise and focused. Emphasize only the most critical details that your investors need to know.
Additionally, if your product or solution involves advanced technology, consider adding a slide that explains it. If you have patented technology, make sure to highlight this aspect during your pitch. This not only demonstrates innovation but also adds a layer of credibility and competitive advantage.
People invest in people. Investors want to know the credentials and backgrounds of the individuals behind the business. To build trust and confidence, always highlight your team's credentials, experience, and significant accomplishments. Showcasing the strengths and expertise of your founding team not only adds credibility but also reassures investors that their money and effort are in capable hands.
Investors are captivated by numbers and will recall them long after your pitch ends. To leave a lasting impression, clearly outline your financial milestones and investment strategy from the outset. Demonstrating a well-thought-out financial plan highlights your business's growth trajectory and reassures investors of your strategic foresight.
Ending your elevator pitch with a strong call to action (CTA) is essential as it generates excitement and creates a sense of urgency. A well-crafted CTA can inspire your audience to take the next step, whether it's learning more about your business or starting a partnership.
Consider these impactful CTAs:
By including a clear and compelling CTA, you guide your audience toward the desired action and keep the momentum going.
💡 Pro tip: Make your CTA specific and actionable. Instead of a generic request, provide clear instructions or direct links that make it easy for your audience to follow through.
Crafting an effective elevator pitch is as much about what you say as how you say it. Here are some quick do's and don'ts to ensure your pitch resonates:
Don'ts:
Speaking Tips:
Creating an effective elevator pitch can be challenging, but seeing how successful companies might craft their pitches can provide valuable insights. Here, we’ll explore hypothetical examples from Airbnb and LinkedIn to illustrate how they could effectively communicate their value propositions.
An elevator pitch for Airbnb could resonate with travelers seeking unique experiences beyond the offerings of traditional hotels.
Hook: “Imagine wanting to explore the world authentically but struggling to find affordable and unique accommodations.”
Problem Statement: “Traditional hotels are expensive and often don’t provide the local experience travelers crave.”
Solution: “Airbnb connects travelers with local hosts who offer unique, affordable accommodations in their homes.”
Unique Value Proposition: “Unlike hotels, Airbnb offers a wide variety of unique spaces, from treehouses to castles, giving travelers a truly local experience.”
Call to Action: “Check out our website to find your next unique stay or become a host today.”
An elevator pitch for LinkedIn might emphasize the efficiency and effectiveness of their platform in meeting the professional networking needs of today’s workforce.
Hook: “Professionals need a way to connect and network in today’s digital world.”
Problem Statement: “Traditional networking methods are time-consuming and often ineffective.”
Solution: “LinkedIn is a professional networking platform that connects you with colleagues, industry leaders, and potential employers.”
Unique Value Proposition: “With LinkedIn, you can showcase your professional achievements, find job opportunities, and build valuable industry connections.”
Call to Action: “Join LinkedIn today and start building your professional network.”
By analyzing these hypothetical examples, it becomes clear that a successful elevator pitch requires a strong hook, a clear problem statement, a concise solution, a compelling, unique value proposition, and a direct call to action. Each element works together to create a pitch that is both engaging and persuasive, ultimately driving the listener to take the next step.
Q: what are the different types of elevator pitches.
A: Elevator pitches can vary based on their purpose and audience. Common types include:
A: While both aim to persuade, a sales pitch is typically more detailed and focused on convincing potential customers to purchase a product or service. It often involves explaining features, benefits, and addressing objections. An elevator pitch, on the other hand, is a brief, high-level overview designed to spark interest and lead to further conversation.
A: An elevator pitch should typically be between 30 seconds to 2 minutes, depending on the context. For casual encounters or networking events, aim for 30 seconds to 1 minute. For more formal presentations or investor pitches, you can extend it to 1 to 2 minutes.
A: Common mistakes include using too much jargon, speaking too quickly, providing too much information, and failing to engage the audience. It's essential to be clear, concise, and to the point, ensuring your message is easily understood and remembered.
A: To make your pitch more engaging, start with a strong hook, use relatable language, and tell a compelling story. Incorporate visual aids if possible, and always end with a clear call to action. Practice delivering your pitch with enthusiasm and confidence.
A: Yes, it's crucial to tailor your pitch to different audiences. Consider the interests and needs of your audience and adjust your pitch accordingly. Personalizing your pitch can make it more relevant and impactful.
A: Practice your pitch in front of a mirror, record yourself, and seek feedback from friends or colleagues. Rehearse in different settings and situations to ensure you can deliver it smoothly and confidently. The more you practice, the more natural and effective your pitch will become.
A: To craft a compelling elevator pitch for a job interview as a job seeker, focus on highlighting your key strengths, relevant skills, and career achievements. Start by briefly introducing yourself and your background in a manner that is short and to the point. Then, concisely explain what makes you a strong candidate for the position, emphasizing your unique value proposition and how your experience aligns with the job requirements. End with a clear call to action, such as expressing your enthusiasm for the role and inviting further discussion.
A: An effective elevator pitch template for a business pitch should include the following components:
A: A project management professional should focus on succinctly conveying their ability to lead and deliver successful projects. Start by outlining a key project you managed, highlighting your role and the impact of your work. Clearly state how your project management skills, such as problem-solving and team coordination, contributed to achieving project goals. Use specific examples to illustrate your achievements and conclude with a call to action, such as inviting a follow-up conversation or discussing potential opportunities.
A: Real-life elevator pitch examples that effectively use analytics often include:
A: A creative elevator pitch typically incorporates imaginative language, storytelling, and engaging elements to capture attention. It might include a unique hook or a memorable anecdote that illustrates the problem and solution in a compelling way. In contrast, a formal elevator pitch is more structured and straightforward, focusing on delivering clear, professional information in a concise manner. The formal pitch aims to provide a precise overview without embellishments, often used in business or investor settings where professionalism is key.
Prezent can be used for crafting the perfect elevator pitch. Here are a variety of features that streamline the creation process and enhance the effectiveness of your presentation:
Auto-Generator
Story Builder
Slide Library
Best Practice Library
Synthesis and Redesign :
Courses and Learning Modules :
To see how Prezent can revolutionize your elevator pitch and other presentations, you can schedule a demo with experts who will guide you through the platform's capabilities and show you how to make the most of its features. Additionally, take advantage of the free trial to explore Prezent and see firsthand how they can streamline your presentation creation process and improve your business communication. Visit Prezent to get started today!
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How to write a presentation introduction. Consider using the tips below to engage your audience before your next presentation: 1. Tell your audience who you are. Introduce yourself, and then once your audience knows your name, tell them why they should listen to you. Example: "Good morning. My name is Miranda Booker, and I'm here today to ...
Learn how to create a business presentation introduction that grabs attention in the first 15 seconds. See real-life examples of different types of introductions and design tips for interactive slides.
3. " State of the Cloud 2023—The AI era ". Image Source. This is the opening slide of a presentation that explores the impact of the "AI era" and the "cloud economy" on the financing ecosystem. What we like: This is another excellent example of opening a presentation with an attention-grabbing hook.
Learn how to capture your audience's attention with a strong opening slide or line. Discover 12 effective techniques to start a presentation, such as self-introduction, hook, visual, question, curiosity gap, and more.
Here's a good presentation example template with a logical layout that includes sections for the introduction, main points, supporting information and a conclusion: CREATE THIS PRESENTATION 2. Engaging opening. ... Start with a captivating introduction, follow up with main points that build on each other and wrap it up with a powerful ...
Learn how to start your presentation in English with a formula that includes welcoming your audience, capturing their attention, identifying your goal, outlining your presentation and giving instructions. See examples of phrases and expressions to use for each step and get a free checklist to prepare your presentation.
The presentation introduction examples in this article cover everything from self-introduction to how to start a group presentation, building anticipation that leaves the audience eager to delve into the depths of your topic. CREATE A PRESENTATION FOR FREE Click to jump ahead: How to start a presentation introduction ...
Learn how to craft a great presentation introduction with six tips and examples. Find out how to engage your audience, share your topic, and make a lasting impression.
A well-structured introduction can capture the audience's attention, introduce the topic, and establish your credibility as a speaker. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to start a presentation, along with more than 30 examples of introductory phrases categorized for various situations. How to Start a Presentation: **1.
Learn how to introduce yourself, state the purpose, and outline your presentation in English with these tips and examples. Find out how to engage your audience with shocking facts, stories, or interactive activities.
19. "I'm honored to present to you this comprehensive look into…". 20. "Without further ado, let's get started on a journey through…". 21. "Thank you for carving time out of your day to join me for this presentation on…". 22. "It's wonderful to see such an engaged audience ready to tackle the topic of…". 23.
For example, you might wish to inspire the audience to take a specific action after the presentation, research further on the same topic, or offer some feedback regarding the presentation's argument. 5. Provide a brief outline of your presentation A great introduction gives the audience a quick overview of the presentation's layout.
Step #2: Tell your audience what problem you can solve for them. This is where all of the pre-work comes into play. In this step, you will use the answers to one of those questions that you answered earlier. For instance, if my topic is how to deliver presentations, I have to determine why the audience would care.
The presentation above, for example, does just that by making a surprising first statement that inspires surprise, amusement, curiosity and fear at the same time. ... This introduction by game designer Jane McGonigal, for example, achieves a level of surprise by making a seemingly improbable assertion. After hearing this kind of statement, most ...
Learn how to create a killer first slide for your presentation with different ideas and examples. From introduction to quiz, from stimulation of imagination to video, find out how to engage your audience and make a lasting impression.
Part 1: Premise, Objective, and Goal Part 2: Argument and Background InformationPart 3: Expected Result and Resolution (others.) In summary of the whole presentation, the topic leaves a remarkable ending. How to Start Business Presentation and Other Samples. For all entrepreneurs, this portion is for you.
This clarifies the overall purpose of your talk and reinforces your reason for being there. Follow these steps: Signal that it's nearly the end of your presentation, for example, "As we wrap up/as we wind down the talk…". Restate the topic and purpose of your presentation - "In this speech I wanted to compare…". 5.
Tip #2: Understand the goals of an introduction. According to the other authors of Communicating at Work, an introduction has 5 distinct objectives.It should: Capture the listener's attention (or, as professional speakers might say, "hook" them),; Give them a reason to listen (offer a solution to a personal or professional problem they have),; Set the proper tone for the topic and ...
Good Presentation Introduction Examples Following are some examples of quality presentation introductions you refer to as inspiration for your own: Example 1: Business conference presentation Here is how you might begin a presentation for a business conference: "Hello, everyone. My name is Aja Patel, a seasoned business leader in the world of ...
Here are 8 tips for a successful presentation introduction to make your presentation a memorable one. Content. Introduce yourself. A classic example of an introduction is to introduce yourself. Your audience will immediately see you in a more personal light when they know who is presenting. A fun introduction that immediately lightens the mood ...
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Have a presentation coming up? Want to hook you audience from the start? Then watch this Lighthouse Communications video that gives you a step by step formul...
Let's take a closer look at the most popular presentation hooks. 1. Tell a story. Telling a compelling story is a good way to start a presentation. Research shows that brain is hardwired for storytelling. Have you ever noticed how kids begin attentively listening to their parents after the words: "Once upon a time.".
1. The opening scene: Introduction. Starting your elevator pitch with a strong introduction sets the tone for the entire presentation. Instead of resorting to startling statements that might distract rather than engage, aim for a natural, informative opening that captures the essence of your business.
Giving a presentation can be a nerve-wracking experience, regardless of the context or your audience. While much attention is given to opening remarks and the main content, what you say after a presentation can significantly influence your audience's perception and their takeaways.