How to Create a Memorable Presentation

Creating a memorable presentation is not that hard, but a lot of work goes into it. Below are 6 steps to help you nail your next big presentation.

1. Develop a Clear Key Message

The attention span of an average person is not more than 7 minutes, after which his mind begins to wander off. If 80% of people who attended your presentation are able to remember the main message of the presentation, then you have succeeded. So the key is to develop a clear and concise message and lay emphasis on it more than 3-4 times during the presentation.

2. Begin With a Bang!

Ensure that you are able to make your opening remark memorable, so as to hook the attention of the audience. You could do this by sharing a startling statistic/number/dollar figure or by telling an interesting story about the topic. It is advisable you develop the opening remark once you have done writing the entire presentation as it is the most important and difficult part. Ensure that you practice and memorise the opening well and do not have the need to look into the paper to be able to speak it with conviction.

3. Connect With the Audience

If your audience is not able to connect with you, then whom are you talking too? Their physical presence and mental absence won’t do you any good. Make impactful, simple, concise, clean slides. Try and be dramatic by incorporating variations in voice whenever possible. Always try and maintain eye contact. Involve the audience by asking questions. Try and occupy the whole stage while talking. Talk in a polite yet loud and clear voice.

4. Convince Them with Forethought & Tactics

If your aim is to sell you product, or accept your idea, or change their views about something, your focus should be on ways to persuade them rather than listing benefits of your product/service/idea. You should appeal to emotion; begin with a pressing issue the audience might be facing and slowly move to consequences of not buying into your idea.

5. Keep a Strong Body Language.

Body language speaks louder than your words can. Interpersonal skills are super important. Body language comprises of voice, posture, gesture, eye contact and distance. Next of importance is your grooming, dress, and hygiene. Use hand gestures and facial animation.

6. Conclude with Conviction

Make your conclusion distinct from the main body of the presentation. Simply by announcing, ‘in conclusion..’ the listeners might get alerted to refocus and listen. You may now repeat your main message, for them to re-register it. End with conviction like- I know we can achieve… Just imagine when… I’m confident that… etc.

To be able to give a memorable presentation is not an easy task. A lot of strategies should be incorporated, along with loads of practice and conviction.

Want more career tips? Read our post on 15 ways you can advance your career in 2015.