Would a VP be interested in discussing a problem around IP subnetting? Is it appropriate to delve into low-level technical details during a governance meeting? And does presenting 20 slides in a 20-minute time frame sound like a good idea?
It might be shocking, but anything you do as part of your job is meaningless if you can’t present it appropriately to different audiences and for various purposes.
Choosing a monotone delivery is a recipe for standing still! You may find yourself sitting at your laptop, the one full of stickers, doing the job while others get the credit.
Let’s take it to practicality. The first step is to establish your master deck about the topic. If you’re working on a document like High-Level Design, always build a corresponding slide deck where you can dump all your thoughts, design decisions, and insights.
Now, It is a matter of tuning to fit a specific demand which is classically a request for a presentation or a workshop: Below is my preparation list.
Audience – Who are the attendees?
What are their interests and expectations? Identify the primary audience—those who influence your goals, like document approvers and budget owners.
Roles and company Hierarchy —Who are you presenting to?
Is it the working level, technical teams, mid-level management, or executives? Your content and format should vary accordingly. Avoid monotone presentations to keep your audience engaged.
Purpose – What messages are you conveying?
First Understand clearly what is the purpose of this meeting. Ensure that each slide and the overall storyboard effectively communicate your intended message.
Success Metrics – How will you measure success?
One of the common mistakes that a presenter feels is that the presentation’s success is linked to the success of presenting it. Instead, focus on the impact your presentation has and the next steps it inspires. Clarify success metrics with the meeting sponsor.
Time Duration – How much time do you have?
One general rule: the shorter the duration is the harder the presentation. For executive meetings, where you may only have 10-15 minutes, plan your content accordingly. Avoid saying, “I have more content, but time isn’t enough.”
Reviewal & Dry Run – There is always an area for improvement.
Internal review and dry runs are vital, especially for important presentations. Share slides with peers and get their feedback to improve your content. In some organizations, it is vital to present the slides to Executive subordinates before presenting them to Executives. Take note of this.
Other considerations – Know your customer
This might be the most crucial part. If you’re unfamiliar with the customer or the enterprise culture, seek support from the account manager or colleagues who can provide insights. Remember, large organizations often have complex dynamics—be cautious about how your words may impact stakeholders.
In conclusion, mastering the art of presentation is essential for your professional success.
By tailoring your content and understanding your audience, you can transform technical details into compelling narratives that resonate with decision-makers. Reflect on your presentation strategies, seek feedback, and always aim to engage your audience. After all, your expertise deserves to be acknowledged and celebrated.