Speaking is something which all of us do throughout a day and it may include both purposeful and purposeless communication. However, speaking to influence another person is a skill that only a few people possess. This is a challenge that every salesperson will be facing in his/her everyday life.

When it comes to making a business presentation, you have a huge task of conveying your idea to a group of people along with convincing them about the same. Though the business presentation was considered a mandatory skill for only certain professions in the past, it has become necessary for all professionals in the current competitive market. What are the skills that you need to speak confidently before an audience?

Every employee should know the art of making an effective business presentation as sometimes, you may be required to share an idea with your team members or present a pitch to your client. Confidence is a natural outcome when you realize that you have the knowledge and the ability to convey it.

With the advancement in technology, business communication is always accompanied by presentations to give better clarity for the concepts. You don't need to be tech-savvy to make a good business presentation. It just needs a basic understanding of PowerPoint and the ability to persuade the audience with words.

Have a look at the things you would need to make an engaging business presentation to attract your customers.

Tips for public speaking and making business presentation

• Being nervous is normal: Individuals will normally feel nervous when they are going to face an audience. Sometimes, nervousness is beneficial as it will compel you to prepare so that you can give your best. Don’t let nervousness affect your confidence.
• Practice makes you perfect: Just like being a bit nervous can help in striving for perfection, practice is another key to excellence. Though you are a confident speaker, practise well as it improves several aspects. You can also deliver your presentation before a friend as another person can give some valuable suggestions that you may miss.
• Keep it short: People cannot remember an hour-long talk. It is better to divide the content into 3-4 points and deliver it accordingly. You can also repeat the key ideas to ensure that you have conveyed the message.
• Sell the idea not the product: Before preparing the script, think about your target audience. Any business presentation must focus on the value which it can give to the audience, not to the speaker. Instead of focussing on the product you sell, emphasize how your service/innovation will benefit others. The success of a sales pitch depends on creating an idea that resonates with the audience.
• Respect the feedback: The main feature of face-to-face communication is that you can get the result of your effort right away. It is a great advantage and motivation if the response is positive or else you will have to change something to capture their attention.

Converting a sales pitch into a business is not an easy task. However, you can master the art with practice and by following some tactics. While making a business presentation, focus on your goals, conduct in-depth research about the product/service, capture the attention of the target audience and speak spontaneously.  

Business presentation training can give you valuable inputs on how to prepare an engaging business presentation to win customers.