Executive level presentations can seem like swimming in shark-infested seas, even for the intrepid business presenter. The risk of drowning is high.
This series of tips will help you make a few tweaks to your presentation practices so you can successfully navigate through any C-Suite waters.
TIP #4: BEWARE OF TOO MUCH DETAIL
Drowning in detail is a surefire way of getting into trouble in an executive presentation.
Senior level executives think more strategically than operationally. When considering a topic, they want to understand quickly what the impact is on the big picture or the bottom line without wading through the weeds of specific details.
Structure your presentation around high level concepts. Not only does this address the needs of your audience, but it also shows that you are capable of thinking strategically. Be sure, however, to have lots of facts and supporting data ready so you can supplement with examples, figures and analysis when your audience wants them.
Pay close attention to your audience's body language and questions that may suggest they want more or less detail. Being flexible and responding quickly to their needs is the best way to keep your head above water.
C-Level Presentation Tip #3: Expect and Be Happy About Interruptions
C-Level Presentation Tip #2: Link to Business Issues
C-Level Presentation Tip #1: Start with Conclusions
Photo Credit:
flickr/sponng C.C. 2.0
I like reading an article that will make people think. Also, many thanks for permitting me to comment!
Posted by: agen pulsa | September 14, 2013 at 03:00 AM
Hi Valary,
Thanks for your comment. I applaud your efforts because I think getting people to really focus on their audience is an on-going task! The audience is giving a presenter the gift of their time and if presenters took this perspective, I think they'd be more sensitive to what the audience needed.
Good suggestion about PPT custom shows for those presenters who just can't give up their reams of detail!
Best,
Kathy
Posted by: Kathy Reiffenstein | March 30, 2012 at 11:11 AM
I see so many people struggle with this despite all the times I encourage people to really think about what is unique to each audience. Why should this audience want to hear from you? What takeaway can you provide for them? One way I have been able to wrestle extraneous slides and details away from presenters is to use custom shows in PowerPoint. This provides them with the security of knowing that they can easily access additional slides and details on the fly.
Posted by: Valary | March 28, 2012 at 09:53 AM