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Using presentation folders for a more professional look in the business world can do amazing things for a business. Presenting something to a client that looks professional and organized will speak volumns about the business before the folder is even opened. Taking advantage of the many options of presentation folders allows almost any business, of any size and budget, to use presetnation folders to take their business to the next level.

The look that presentation folders bring to the table can mean everything to a business and a client. Materials that are presented in a neat, professional manner will grab the attention of the client and give them a sense that the business has their stuff together and really knows what they are doing. It is the first impression made on a client and speaks for the business before anything or anyone else does. What is inside can be truly ground breaking, but if it isn’t presented wisely the client’s attention can be lessened. Overall the look of a presentation folder says the business really cares about their work and wants to put forward a professional image.

Some other great perks of presentation folders is that they can be made to a businesses specifications. Customized with a logo or company name, so the work is immediately recognized. They are also a nice way to put everything together so it is easy to carry and look through. The client will have everything right there without having to flip through handouts or review notes. Most folders also have a place for a busines card, as well for additional convenience.

Since presentation folders can be customized they are easy to buy in bulk. This cuts down on costs and allows them to be used for a variety of needs, from employee handouts to business meetings. A little custom printing and the folder goes from a office supply to a business tool. Customization can be done to add the business name or logo to the folder, add a title or other information to the cover or even change the binding on the folder. Buying in bulk then customizing as needed cuts down the cost emensely.

Presentation folders are a great business asset. They have many advatages and so many uses that they are a must have for nay buisiness that wants to advance. They are also a cost effective way to get a professional, polished look. Using presentation folders can help a business rise above competitiors and make an image for themselves.

All eyes are on you. Yes, it’s true. In business presentations, you are in charge. You are the leader. As the leader in a presentation, you are in charge of the pace, flow, and impact of your story.

In business presenting, a lot of professionals confuse their audiences by multi-tasking. This is a really bad idea. Instead of giving your audience a clear direction, multi-tasking points them in 15-directions at once.

Let’s look at the common (but awful) practice of talking while changing PowerPoint or Keynote slides.

If you talk, change slides and keep on talking, what should the audience do? Should they listen to your words? Should they focus on the slide? What is the right place to look? They aren’t sure.

The audience doesn’t know what is the top priority. Simply put, if your audience is confused, they will check out. Instead of staying connected to your message, their attention will drift.

Next thing you know, people will be checking email, daydreaming or having side conversations. This is NOT how to command attention.

What can you do differently? Slow down. Do one thing at a time.

Here’s the simple tip: Announce where you are going. Pause. Then change the slide. Next, describe where you are.

This is just the same kind of step-by-step approach that you need to take when giving a tour, or managing the attention of a young child. Only now, you’re acting as a patient tour guide for your audience.

Here’s the break down in precise detail.

Tip 1: Tell Where You Are Going

Announce where you are going in advance. This tip applies to your entire presentation, each slide, and the next action.

For the whole presentation: always give an overview. This helps participants get oriented for the entire journey. Even if everyone is familiar with the topic and you’ve met before, give an overview.

For each slide: prepare participants for what’s in the next slide – before you go there. This is important. The mind can wander. It’s your job to tell people where you are and what’s coming next – before you go.

For each action: tell people what you want them to do. Announce this in advance.

Then…

Tip 2: Change The Picture

After you have alerted participants, it’s time to do what you promised. Change the slide.

If you are not using slides, you can still do this step. Change to a flipchart. Change to a video. Or change to a whiteboard. You also might be changing to an exercise or activity.

Whatever you promised to do, do what you have announced.

Tip 3: Show Where You Are

Now that you are in a new slide, or a new whiteboard discussion — show people around. Familiarize them with the new part of the presentation.

I like to think of this as playing the tour guide. It doesn’t take a lot of time, but it shows how much you care about your audience. It shows you care deeply about their experience.

Are you commanding attention in client and prospect presentations? Get the skills you need to focus attention with visual storytelling. 

I am of the belief that the majority of people can improve their
presentations dramatically by focusing on eliminating bad habits and presentation skills more than seeking to add anything on. How often have you come out of a seminar and overheard someone say, “Wow, she was great! Did you see how effectively she used her hand gestures?”

That said, here are some ideas to help you become a better speaker.

1. Keep it simple

Speak naturally

Make eye contact

Don’t do crazy things with your hands

Don’t do much more than speak, i.e. managing props etc.

2. Be impassioned

3. Balance the format of your information

4. Build the relationships beforehand if possible

5. Get the audience to participate at varying levels if effective

6. Show, don’t tell. That is, use stories, not facts and figures

7. Get rid of distracting idiosyncrasies

8. Don’t misinterpret people’s actions and get discouraged

9. Know your material

10. Never, ever, go overtime