In our last tip, we shared the idea of thinking about a presentation differently. Instead of believing we have to get all of the content possible on our slides, we can use less content and bring the story to life through our delivery. If we do this well, the audience will be more engaged and will view us more positively.

The challenge now? It is up to us to bring the bullets and the presentation to life via our delivery. If all we do is read fewer, shorter bullets, we will actually take a step backward.

What does it take to do this well? 

• First, we need to prepare. Everything begins with your research meetings, where you gain critical insight on the customer’s business. Dig deeper and learn more. Noting key insights while developing the presentation is an important step.
• Second, we need to prepare speaking points beyond the bullet points. As an example, if you are reflecting on one of your customer’s business objectives, which is to increase revenues, your bullet might simply say, “Increase revenues”. However, to bring additional supporting detail, you might deliver it this way, “As I understand it, one of your important objectives is to increase revenues, as much as 8-10% by the end of FY 2026, with possibly more aggressive targets in the LATAM region.” The talking points add value and show depth, making the presentation, and you, more interesting to the audience.
  Review your presentation and talking points to commit them to memory, and rehearse your delivery to enhance your recall.
• Lastly, one of your best tools is confidence. This comes from doing your homework, preparing effectively, and rehearsing your message.

Keep in mind that you will probably not have perfect recall in the moment. You may forget what you were going to say from time to time, and that’s okay. No one knew exactly what you planned to say in the first place, so they certainly won’t know what you forgot!