WHY THIS PRESENTATION?

In the best of circumstances, the purpose of a presentation is clear-cut, such as to deliver the findings of a report or update skills. Other times the reason for the presentation is sketchy or is not what it appears. Unless your job is corporate trainer, you probably don’t initiate presentations. Most often, someone requests you to give the presentation. That someone has a reason for wanting the presentation. Your mission is to find out.

The first fundamental is to answer the question: “Exactly what is the reason for this presentation, and what do I want my audience to take away when the presentation ends?” Are you presenting information or a report? Selling a service or product? Persuading a board of directors to fund your project? Motivating employees or volunteers? Teaching new skills? Your answer should be one brief sentence. This sentence is your objective—the purpose of your presentation. It is the seed. Plant it in fertile soil—your own passion—and nurture its growth with appropriate preparation, and it will blossom into an effective presentation.