It is difficult to navigate through anything in life without a structure, a map or guide that keeps you focused and moving towards your goals. This same principle also applies to giving presentations.

A presentation that lacks a structure or format is unlikely to communicate a powerful or compelling message, or to prompt the desired response in your audience.

So how can you structure a presentation that works?

Creating an effective presentation structure

The most important thing is to resist the urge to present ideas as they occur to you – planning is an essential presentation speaking skill.

Giving a presentation off the cuff will more likely than not lead to a rambling and confused message. Instead, sit down and develop a structure that is known to work with audiences.

Here are two examples.

1. Simple ‘key points’ structure

This structure identifies the key points you want to make and how to deliver them. It consists of three elements:

  • The What – this is the main point you want to communicate. It’s important here to keep it simple and not flood your audience with loads of data and information.
  • The So What – the So What expands on The What, but only the bits that are relevant to the audience – that is, what’s in it for them.
  • The What Now – this bit is all about what happens next. In making What Now points you need to have considered what thoughts, feelings and behaviours you want to generate in your audience.
2. Telling a story

Another tried and true option is the storytelling structure. Almost everyone loves a rattling good yarn – but most especially one they can relate to. In fact, research shows that humans take in and retain more information through story than through facts and figures.

One of the best ways to do this is to create a 3-act play – complete with conflict, antagonists, heroics, and resolutions:

  • Act 1: the conflict – describes the antagonist (problem) and introduces the conflict. This act creates the drama and a desire in the listener to know what comes next.
  • Act 2: the heroics – in this act, the hero comes to the rescue, armed with the ideal solution to the conflict.
  • Act 3: resolution – the climax of the story is here. This is where you get to describe the best solution and the benefit it provides to the audience, and how they can claim it for themselves.

As long as you’ve done your groundwork (you understand your audience and you know what responses you are seeking) a great structure can help you to create the kinds of presentations that sparkle, and deliver real-life results!

For these and more tips on how to improve your presentation skills, download the eBook Please Shut Up & Start Communicating here.

If you want to learn, even more, join our workshop. Public Workshops – Sydney – Powerful Learning

Book online https://www.eventbrite.com.au/myevent?eid=39073110726

Learn more about Neil K Ross on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilrossgroupeamplify/

About
Groupe Amplify

We are specialists in business presentations, public speaking and interpersonal skills training. You’ll gain real results – immediately and over time.

Claim Your Free Guide Right Now

Become a remarkable communicator!

In this eBook you will learn simple yet effective ways to leverage the awesome power of the spoken word. The seven tips, techniques and processes provided will help you create and deliver remarkably good presentations, speeches and talks.

1. You’re Not You… You’re Them: The Audience 2. Make An Upfront Promise… Right Upfront 3. Talk Passionately About Your Passion Points 4. Work To A Structure That Works 5. Unleash Words That Work 6. Use PowerPoint Like Chill Flakes 7. Add Power: Body Language & Tone of Voice

Download This Free Ebook Today

Select For Latest Tips and Techniques

Call Now Button