4 Tips to Utilize Visual Aids During a Presentation

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Posted by Jim on Oct 30, 2007 107 views

Visual aids are a powerful tool in any presentation. In fact, it’s expected to use these when making a presentation as they offer a whole new dimension during a speech. We retain information 55% longer when we combine sight and sound and we are 43% more likely to be persuaded when visual aids are used. That’s due to the fact that 83% of all we learn is through our eyes.

To help you become more successful on your next presentation, I”ve put together 4 quick tips to help you decide how a visual aid can be utilized.

1. Use Only When Necessary.
Sometimes presenters use more visual aids then necessary. Using too many aids can be distracting and actually sidetrack the content of your message. To avoid this, take a look at the information you”ll be presenting and determine whether or not a visual aid will help illustrate it.

2. Use The Appropriate Visual Aid.
Make sure the method you use to display your visual aid is appropriate. There are many different options for you to choose from. You can use anything from Microsoft’s PowerPoint presentations to overhead displays. Just remember to choose a method that is conducive to delivering your message clearly. Consider the size of the audience, the room set up, lighting, and how interactive you want the presentation to be.

3. Be Prepared.
If you are intending to use visual aids, it is important that you know how to operate the equipment. Practice with the machine you plan on using BEFORE your presentation. If not, and you run into problems during your presentation, it will only create doubt about you and your ability to be prepared. Make sure to practice with your material and how they will be used/inserted during your presentation.

4. Have A Backup Plan.
Be ready for anything. Many people use a computer and projector for their presentations. You need to be able to speak without them should something go wrong like: lost power, burnt out bulbs to lost or stolen equipment. Put your presentation on a CD and store it in a different location than the rest of your equipment (this has personally saved us on a few occasions). Also, print handouts of your presentation. Microsoft’s PowerPoint software will let you put several screens shoots on one page to cut down on the number of pages needed to printout your final presentation.

Concentrate on the presentations content first and last, and fancy graphics to help the event. Don’t get lose in all of those PoerPoint features.