What you should know before having someone design your PowerPoint presentation
Like any type of communication, your PowerPoint presentation must have a logical sequence to it. If you were writing a corporate brochure, you would start with an outline and define key sections of the brochure. You would also think hard
about what you wanted the reader to do after finishing the brochure. Do you want him to buy your products, sign up for your services, or simply expand his knowledge? The same holds true when writing the text for your PowerPoint presentation. Do you want a new client, money for expansion, or more highly trained employees? Almost all presentations begin with some sort of introduction. Then there is an overview of key points. Next, each point is elaborated upon. Make sure all bulleted statements are brief. Remember, there will be someone doing the talking and the PowerPoint should be looked at as a visual aid, not an ebook. If someone sees a slide loaded with text he’ll do one of two things; read ahead of the presenter, not what you want, or think “Wow, this guy is going to cover all this material? I’m going to miss my son’s soccer game!” Or he’ll just get frustrated and tune out. Now the next thing is a summation of what was presented. Remember, when introducing something new, it’s always good to reinforce the idea in someone’s mind. Finally, go in for the close. That means ask for the business, the additional funds, the moral support, or whatever it is. Just don’t forget to ask. And after developing that all important framework, you can take the next step which is to get your presentation to look as good as it sounds.
