First Steps First

By Gail Zack Anderson, President of Applause, Inc.

First the good news—you have been asked to give a presentation. Now the bad news—where do you begin? If you are like most people, you’ll immediately begin to think about what you are going to say, what your visuals will look like, or what you can use for a powerful opening. This strategy can take a lot of time and lead to major frustration, unless you take the time to first create solid content. Here’s how:

1. Be sure you can answer these questions: Who is your audience? What is the purpose of the presentation? What does your audience want (or not want) to hear? How can you make your message appealing or acceptable to them? What do you want them to do, think, feel, or remember at the end of your presentation? If you cannot answer these questions, keep thinking, talk to a colleague, or do research until you know the answers.

2. Develop and write down a one-sentence message that captures the idea you want to express, in a way the audience can relate to. You will use this sentence as a theme in your presentation, and you should state it at the beginning and the end of your presentation. Here is an example of such a message: “Today’s presentation will show you the innovative ideas our department has developed, and how you might be able to use them to improve productivity in your department.”

3. Brainstorm to determine key topics you will discuss. For example, in the presentation above, key topics might include what those ideas were, how they were implemented, costs or risks associated with them, and the benefits your department has derived. Be sure that each main idea or topic relates directly to your main message.

4. Now you are ready to create that snappy opening! In it, talk about your audience’s concerns, and how what you have to say might benefit them. Then link your opening to your main message. Keep your opening short, to the point, and make sure it reinforces your main message.

5. Devote some time for a dress rehearsal, preferably in the actual presentation room if possible. Gather a small audience who can ask pertinent questions and give you feedback. Practicing with your visual aids helps reduce the need to look at or read from your visuals.

Learn more about Gail Zack Anderson and Applause in our Contributors area.