6 Common Business Presentation Mistakes to Avoid

Presenting to your colleagues can be thrilling because, whether you are pitching an idea or demonstrating work, a presentation is your opportunity to make a strong impression. Yet even someone who is smart and talented can make a small error that leads to a big problem. Here are six blunders people often make during business presentations and what you can do to avoid them.

1. Verbalizing Without the Objective in Sight

One of the biggest mistakes that many make is speaking for too long without getting to the point. Many believe that more content is better; however, the reality is, presenting the audience with too much data is either confusing or boring. Instead, stay focused on your objective, and make sure your message is straightforward and to the point. Your audience will appreciate a simple structure, which usually includes an introduction, main points, and conclusion. Following this structure will help keep everyone focused.

2. Reading the Slides Word-by-Word

Slides are designed to illustrate what you’re saying. What they are not supposed to do is say everything for you. If you are reading every single word from your slides, chances are quite high that your audience will tune you out. They can read the screen themselves. Create bullet points or images; however, keep your message to the point. Use a conversational tone, and make sure you make eye contact with everyone in the audience. This keeps everybody in the room engaged and demonstrates that you know your topic.

3. Using Jargon Excessively

When you hang out with others in your field on a regular basis, you will forget that everyone does not speak the same language. People will check out if there is too much jargon, as they feel like they are lost. Just always be mindful of who is listening to you and use short words whenever you are able. If you need a technical term, explain what it means. The aim is to help people comprehend, not to cause confusion.

4. Poor Time Management

The quickest way to lose your audience is by going overtime. People are there to see your talk. If you wait too long, they will get antsy or even leave. To prevent this, practice with a timer before delivering your pitch. Know which parts you can cut if necessary. Being on time at the beginning and end of a presentation is a matter of respect for your audience, especially since many professionals are penciling you into busy schedules.

5. Not Practicing Enough

Your delivery matters just as much, even if your slides are perfect. There are too many people who fail to practice. They think they can “wing it,” but what often happens is that they fumble over their words, have awkward moments of silence, or drift off in a tangential direction. Practice aloud, at least more than once. Not only will you be more confident, but your entire presentation will sound more natural, professional, and smooth.

6. Ignoring the Audience

When you are giving a speech, speaking is only part of the equation. You must also read the room and fit in with your audience. Some people just seem to get stuck and refuse to engage conversationally, as they talk to people rather than with them. Keep an eye on your audience’s reactions. Ask questions, solicit feedback, or interject humor when it feels appropriate.

Presentation skills are something you can learn and practice. By sidestepping the typical blunders, you are on your way to a memorable performance.