Presentatation Training Skills: Make It or Break It

A lot of ink has been spent on how a single presentation can make or break your career. Whether you are an employee, entrepreneur, marketer or sales professional, high stakes presentations can affect everything.

Specifically, your presentation can make or break your reputation.

The Total Package

Your presentation may be your only chance at a contract. Both presentation design and passionate delivery are important. The total package has an impact your current and future relationship with clients and prospects.

Before you go on autopilot, stop.

Challenge Your Assumptions

Question your assumptions. Sharpen your thinking and challenge each belief about how things should go. Test out new ways of presenting to take advantage of the situation.

But don’t stop there. Be sure to ask for feedback.

Your clients will tell you directly what works – and what doesn’t. They will usually be quite clear on the most productive way to spend time together.

Why Feedback Works

What happens when you ask for feedback? You let your clients know that you care about their experience, value their time, and are interested in doing what is most effective.

This is a powerful indicator of how you will behave and value the relationship on an ongoing basis. Communication skills speak volumes about how you run your business, make decisions, and take action.

Real world decision makers are people who have a big vision – and who notice tiny details. You can significantly improve your business when you include your clients with a feedback loop.

Often it comes down to taking the time to review and debrief. Ask a few questions such as:

• “Was there any spot that was confusing to you?”

• “Do you have any suggestions for how to improve?”

• “Could you show me where I could be clearer?”

This kind of care for details, concern for your viewer’s experience, and commitment to constant improvement are marks of a professional.

It’s not a myth that a single presentation can make or break your career. Find out how to inspire decision makers to take action. Command attention and gain buy-in for your recommendations.