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Three Keys to a Great PowerPoint!

By: Rob J. Graves, Fri Dec 9th, 2005 04:59:21 PM

Can you believe Microsoft PowerPoint has been around since 1987? I remember the first time I watched someone give a presentation with PowerPoint. I wasn’t quite sure what I was seeing, but I was definitely “wowed” by it.

Should you still be using PowerPoint even though the “wow” factor is no longer there? Absolutely. Studies show your audience will retain up to 50% more of your information just by adding visual elements to reinforce your points.

Key: Make your first impression count (or it may be your only one).

I don’t mean to sound pessimistic, but In the business world today- it’s true. Amongst the increasing information and advertising clutter, you may only have one chance to make your point. My personal philosophy is this: you will make either a positive or negative impression during that first (and maybe only) meeting. Make no mistake, a mediocre first impression is a negative first impression. First impressions are lasting and will color the rest of your dealings with that company. So, you’d better make a good first impression or you’ll be fighting an uphill battle the rest of the way.

Key: Your PowerPoint presentation is a powerful (often subconscious) part of that first impression.

Often, your presentation pitch will be the first time many key decision makers have heard anything in detail about your company and it’s products. To gain those details they may have only two immediate sources- you and your PowerPoint. Don’t let your PowerPoint be the weak link. If your PowerPoint presentation is cheap looking, sloppy and not well thought out– guess what impression your audience will gather about your company.

Just as you would never show up to an important presentation dressed in torn jeans and a plain t-shirt, your presentation needs to make a professional impression. Back in the 90’s it was perfectly acceptable to use a free template that came with PowerPoint. But, today your PowerPoint is an integral part of your sales and marketing collateral. If you don’t think of your PowerPoint in this way then you truly need to shift your thinking.

Key: Dress your PowerPoint for success.

Today, there are many sites that sell pre-made professional PowerPoint templates. You can simply choose one (from among the hundreds) that best matches your company’s look, feel and color scheme. Once you purchase and download the template, you can customize it to your liking.

Another option- If you don’t have the time or expertise to do it yourself, you can hire an outside firm to do the PowerPoint creation and customization for you. This can truly make your presentation stand apart from the rest of your competitors, through professional-quality images, advanced charts and by utilizing appropriate animations that enhance and compliment your message.

But, whether you decide to do it yourself or hire a professional, it is definitely worth the investment to maximize the professionalism and effectiveness of your PowerPoint presentation. You’ll not only be doing your audience a favor, but the high return on investment will greatly benefit your company and you.

About the author: Rob J. Graves is the Owner and Senior Creative Specialist for Graves Creative Services http://www.gravescreative.com. GCS has created award-winning PowerPoint presentations for companies throughout the US and abroad. GCS also provides Meet By Web http://www.meetbyweb.com, an affordable web conferencing service that allows customers to present their PowerPoint to audiences small or large from the comfort of their offices.

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