How to create impactful and memorable presentations

Whether you're pitching for a new client, presenting at a conference, or delivering a workshop, your presentation skills can make or break the message you're trying to convey. A great presentation doesn’t just inform—it inspires, engages and leaves a lasting impression. Here's how you can create impactful and memorable presentations that truly connect with your audience.

1. Start with the end in mind

Before opening PowerPoint or Canva, take a step back and ask yourself: What do I want my audience to think, feel or do after this presentation? Having a clear objective helps shape your structure, tone, and key takeaways. When you’re laser-focused on your goal, your content becomes more intentional and impactful.

2. Tell a story

Facts tell, but stories sell. Humans are hardwired to respond to storytelling. A well-placed story—whether personal, professional or anecdotal—can illustrate your point more powerfully than a slide full of bullet points. Stories build emotional connections, making your message more relatable and memorable.

3. Simplify your slides

Less is more when it comes to your visuals. Avoid clutter and ditch the walls of text. Use high-quality images, minimal text, and strong headlines. A good rule of thumb? One idea per slide. Your slides are there to support you, not to be the presentation itself.

4. Make it interactive

Even the best presentations can fall flat if they’re one-sided. Add moments of interactivity to keep your audience engaged—this could be asking questions, using polls, sharing quick exercises or encouraging reflection. The more involved your audience is, the more they’ll retain.

5. Rehearse like it’s game day

Practising out loud is non-negotiable. Rehearsing helps with your timing, boosts confidence and highlights areas that may need tightening. Record yourself and play it back or present to a friend or colleague for feedback. Knowing your content well frees you up to connect with your audience rather than focusing on what’s next.

6. Start and end strong

First impressions count, and your opening sets the tone. Start with a bang—ask a compelling question, share a surprising fact, or tell a quick story that hooks your audience in. Equally, your ending should leave them with something to remember. Don’t just trail off—summarise your key points and deliver a clear call to action or a thought-provoking takeaway.

7. Be authentically you

Your audience isn’t just there for the content—they’re there for you. Let your personality shine through. Speak naturally, share your experiences, and don’t be afraid to show your passion. Authenticity builds trust and helps people connect with your message on a deeper level.

Creating impactful and memorable presentations is a skill you can learn and refine. When you combine clear intention, storytelling, simple design, interaction, and authenticity, you’ll stand out as a speaker and leave a lasting impression. Remember, people may forget your slides, but they won’t forget how you made them feel.