Presentation checklist: 20 checks before you present

I can say my core message in one sentence.If you cannot, your audience will not either.I know exactly who is in the room and what they care about.Different audience, different story.I know what the audience should decide or do afterwards.A presentation without a call to action is a report.My storyline follows a clear structure: situation, problem, solution, next step.Structure carries the audience through.Every slide headline is a full sentence with a message, not a topic word.Read only the headlines – does the story still work?

Each slide carries one message only.Two messages? Make two slides.My slides have little text – I say it, the slide shows it.People cannot read and listen at the same time.Every chart answers one question and highlights the key number.Grey the rest, colour the point.Fonts, colours and alignment are consistent throughout.Consistency looks professional and reads faster.Text is readable from the back of the room (at least 20 pt).Test it: step back three metres from your screen.

I have rehearsed the whole presentation out loud at least twice.Rehearsing in your head does not count.My opening and my close are prepared word for word.Strong first and last minutes carry the rest.I finish comfortably within the agreed time.Plan for 80 percent of your slot.I have prepared answers to the three most likely critical questions.Q&A is part of the presentation.I have checked room, technology and a backup of my file.Fewer surprises, more presence.

I know who decides and what matters most to them.Present to the decision-maker, not to the room.My key numbers are on one slide and easy to remember.One slide that people can repeat later.I name the decision I need and propose a date for it.Make it easy to say yes.I have aligned with key stakeholders before the meeting.No surprises in the meeting itself.A one-page summary is ready to send afterwards.The presentation keeps working after you leave.