Looking at Mark Zuckerberg and the late Steve Jobs as examples of high standards, it is irrefutable that great presentation skills coupled with slides designed for easy reading can make a great impact on an audience and bring a message across in a most effective and clear manner, therefore a great presentation incorporates equal parts of excellent content, smooth delivery, and a great design.
Tip 1: Use consistent colours
Colour is a powerful tool to evoke emotions. The right colour can help motivate readers. Studies show that colour usage can increase interest and improve learning comprehension. While we may use two distinctive colours on the same slide, it can create a dichotomy and upset a clear interpretation on the part of viewers. In that sense, two colours in the same colour range are suggested for use. For example, for two charts appearing on the same slide, you can use one colour in different shades to present the ideas (i.e. dark green, light green). The only time you should use different colours is when you want to show how your contributions are significantly higher than other parties or highlight a significant data point to display on your charts (contrasting purposes).
Tip 2: Use visuals to enhance comprehension
Photographic images or bold, arresting visuals help the audience connect with the slide at a more emotional level. As compelling images can turn a good deck into a great deck, it can also turn a bland textual slide into one that your audience can't help but pay attention to and remember easily.
Tip 3: Use videos when appropriate
Use videos where appropriate in relation to the content. Video clips promote active cognitive processing, which is the natural way people study. You can play video clips within the presentation file without ever leaving the application. In fact, using a video clip not only illustrates your point better, it also serves as a change of pace thereby increasing the interest of your audience.
Tip 4: Compare data in a clear form
Presenters are usually guilty of including too much data in their charts. There are several methods to display data in graphic form; just remember to keep it simple. In general, tables are good for the comparisons of quantitative data. However, tables can lack impact on a visceral level and display that information in a less dramatic or emotional way. If you want to show how your contributions are significantly higher than two other parties, for example, it would be best to show that in the form of a bar chart. Therefore, try to compare the data in a clear form to allow viewers see the difference at a glance.
If you present often in your work, this article hopefully serves as a reminder and refreshment. For new presenters, use these tips as a guide to improve and perform better for your future presentation sessions.
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