Presentation Skills

Structure business presentations and design slides that support the message

Why It Matters

Briefings, project updates, and funding requests often succeed or fail on the presentation. Cluttered slides, buried recommendations, and data without a takeaway leave decision-makers confused or unconvinced. Strong presenters help leaders act quickly and confidently. For organizations, better presentations mean shorter meetings, clearer decisions, and a more credible image with boards, funders, clients, and agency partners.

Course Description

Where public speaking centers on the speaker, this course centers on the content and its design. Participants start with the audience and the decision or action the presentation should produce, then build a storyline around one key message with supporting points. They learn to outline before opening slide software, design slides with one idea each, use charts that make a point, and keep text minimal. Practice includes converting a dense slide into a clear one and restructuring a deck so the recommendation comes first. Each participant prepares and delivers a short presentation on a real work topic, followed by peer and facilitator feedback on structure, visuals, and handling questions. A closing segment covers virtual delivery and screen sharing.

Key Focus Areas

Participants explore and practice:

Defining the audience and the decision you need
Building a storyline around one key message
Slide design: one idea per slide, minimal text
Presenting data with charts that make a point
Fielding questions and handling challenges
Delivering presentations virtually and sharing screens

Learning Outcomes

Participants will be able to:

Outline a presentation around a single key message and recommendation
Design slides that support rather than repeat the spoken message
Convert complex data into a clear visual with a stated takeaway
Respond to audience questions concisely
Deliver a short work presentation and apply feedback

Who Should Attend

Managers and program leads who brief leadership
Project managers and analysts
Staff presenting to boards, funders, or clients
Business development professionals

Delivery and Customization

Examples, scenarios, and activities are adapted to your audience and goals. Delivery is available in person, virtually, or in a hybrid format, as a standalone session or as part of a series. Format and length are agreed during scoping.

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Bring Presentation Skills to your team

Tell us about your audience and goals. We will follow up to scope objectives, format, and timing.

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