PowerPoint is the software package that many professionals love to hate. Creating even a handful of slides can take an eternity, and it’s often hard to know whether they really look professional, or whether they will hinder your presentation.
Here are 11 must-know tips on how to become a PowerPoint legend.
Less is more
It’s tempting to overload your presentation with content. Don’t do this. The audience will appreciate it if you cut down on slide content, and explain it yourself. The less clutter you have, the better.
Be original
An obvious but highly important point. Don’t copy and paste content from another PowerPoint presentation. The audience will see through you.
Be consistent
Ensure that colours, fonts and displays are consistent throughout your slides, and use contrast to make your text and graphics stand out. Ensure your font is different to that of your logo.
Use images and video content
Text is boring on its own. Make sure that your presentation stands out by including some video material if possible, and plenty of interesting graphics and photographs.
Don’t use clip art
Clip art is basically pre-made images used to illustrate something online. It looks cheap and unprofessional, so steer clear.
Use your own images
Even photos from your smartphone are more authentic than ‘better’ stock images you’ll find online.
Limit transitions and builds
Animated slides, such as bullet points, should not be used on every slide. Be subtle.
Use simple charts
Don’t overload the audience with too much data in your charts.
Use your brand
Regardless of what you’re presenting on, your business’s brand should be on every slide. Don’t let the audience forget who’s talking to them.
Talk freely
Don’t just read directly from your slides. This makes you come across as awkward and unprofessional. Instead, only use keywords and come prepared. Then, you’ll be able to talk freely and informatively about your topic.
Offer a take-home message
You want to give the audience something to think about when they leave your presentation. Give them a short handout afterwards.
