It’s a trick question. In general, the answer is “It depends.”
There are a few ways I answer this question when I create slides for a client. But the thought process behind it can be rather extensive.
It actually comes down to matching the amount of information on the screen to the presenter, the audience, the content and the medium. A few questions I try to answer…
- Is the client a comfortable presenter?
- Do they have a deep command of their subject?
- Is the topic complex?
- Do they have to demonstrate they are not “dumbing down” their material for a critical audience?
- Will there be others with varying skills who will use this deck to present?
- Will the slides be used as handouts before or after the presentation?
- And finally, will this be presented online or in-person?
Sounds awfully complex, doesn’t it?
Here are a few examples:
Let’s say I am working with a very capable presenter. She has lots of experience and a vast knowledge of her topic. Her content is not overly technical, and her delivery is somewhat motivational – such as: “Building A More Inclusive Workplace.” Her presentation will be in-person and she will not distribute the slides.
The presentation slides I build for this client might have very limited text and big powerful, high-quality images. If there was a section that needed to depict a process or a complex issue, I would create detailed visuals that filled that need.
The goal is to let her shine as the star of her show and her material and not have PowerPoint distract or overwhelm.
Let’s look at the other end of the spectrum: a client who will have multiple people use the PowerPoint deck to deliver to a technically oriented audience. Something like a medical presentation delivered by multiple trainers: “Intake Protocols for Highly Infectious Diseases.”
This will be presented online and the PowerPoint will be used as a downloadable handout.
These slides must tell the whole story. They will have large amounts of text and the images in those slides must fill a specific need. These slides must have as much detail as necessary for the presentation and the audience.
Then each presenter need only to read the text on the slide and possibly fill in additional verbal information from their personal notes or knowledge. They do not need to have that extensive an understanding of their topic, except possibly to conduct a question and answer session.
This last scenario is obviously less than optimal. Having one of a number of presenters deliver a canned online presentation is not the most effective way to deliver information to your clients, prospects or team. But sometimes it is the only option and the design of the visual deck becomes a critical component to the project’s success.
There are a hundred variations in the middle of these two examples and every project requires finding that perfect match for my clients and their needs.
When possible, I always try to default to maximizing the spotlight on the presenter and letting the slides support them.
I have two terrific offers for you. If you are getting ready to deliver a critical presentation, then read on.
I invite you to get some serious coaching and a sample revise of 3 of your PowerPoint slides at ½ off my normal rates.
The best way to decide if I can help you with your presentation or with your slides is to have a simple introductory discovery call. And it’s free.
This 30- to 60-minute call is all about you. Your skills, your presentations, your audiences, your weaknesses and your strengths — whatever. It’s all coaching and listening. No selling allowed.
If we decide there is an opportunity to help you reach your goals faster and more effectively then I can offer you additional coaching and design services. This will allow you to supercharge your presentation and stand far above your peers and your competition.
If you or I decide it’s not a good fit, then you will still have what I promise will be the most valuable 30-60 minutes you could spend on your presentations or your career.
In addition, my 3 Slide PowerPoint Revision is ½ half off my normal fee until Friday, August 7, 2020.
You can use these slides as is or to rework your entire presentation. Plus, they will be an inexpensive introduction into how I can help you and your slides conquer the world – either online or for in-person presentations.
Use these visuals to start to build your best ever slide deck. Slides that will show you as a top-notch professional – the superstar of your industry or subject area.
This is a super easy way for you to revise your choice of three slides from your deck. I personally will update them, rework them and make them clear, powerful and beautiful for you. They will be fully editable and immediately useable for your very next presentation.
Note: complex charts or infographics may require an additional fee – but most do not.
To find out more and to book your free Discovery Call just go here: https://www.tomnixondesign.com/how_to_get_started/
Remember the ½ off for the 3 Slide PowerPoint Revision is only good until Friday, August 7, 2020.
Click on the link, sign up, pick a date and off we go. Your presentation will be amazing!
Stay safe and happy today,
Tom
