Cue up your strategy

Great presentations don’t start with slides—they start with a story. Whether you’re presenting research results, analytics, financials, or a new strategy, your goal is to connect and inspire. 

We have been working with presenters in all fields for more than a decade and regardless of the content, there are five stages of preparing a presentation that guide our work together and which we hope is helpful for you the next time you have a presentation to prepare – for an event, a meeting or even a one-to-one with a senior manager.    

Your data is powerful. Your story makes it unforgettable.

Know your audience

Why should they care?

Every great presentation begins with understanding who’s in the room. What would inspire them? What are they worried about? They are the heroes of your story. You, on the other hand, are the mentor of your data. Think of it this way: The mentor is the one who shows up with the wisdom or tool you need most, just when you need it—like Obi-Wan handing Luke his lightsaber and opening his eyes to the Force.

Your job?

To connect the dots between your data and their world and create an environment where they are empowered to receive your message.

Define your shared mission

Align on the "why"

When presenting as a team, it’s crucial to align on your shared goals upfront. Think of a team pitching a sustainability initiative. If one member emphasises cost savings and another focuses on environmental impact, the message feels scattered. Instead, unite behind a clear story: “We’re here to show how sustainable choices drive both impact and profitability.”

When the goal is trust and relationships, consistency isn’t just king—it’s your foundation.

Your job?

Align as a team and focus on your shared goals. Ask yourselves: What conversation are we sparking? From raising awareness to driving action, ensure every message connects to your common mission.

It's not only about the data...

...it's the meaning of the data that matters

Start with the “Why should you care”: What problem are you solving? Example: "Every 10 seconds, someone develops a condition that can be prevented."

Highlight your main finding upfront: Then support it. Example: "Our study revealed a 40% reduction in symptoms—this could transform care as we know it."

Craft visual stories: Use visuals purposefully. Example: Transition from a chart to a real-world impact story to humanise the data.

End with action: Inspire your audience to do something with what they’ve learned. Example: "With this knowledge, we can reduce patient wait times by 50%. Will you join us in making it happen?"

Your Job?

‍Translate your numbers into stories. Make them feel, then make them think. When the story drives the data, the data drives action.

Practice and refine

Rehearse with purpose

When preparing for a presentation, rehearsing isn’t just about memorising—it’s about refining. Imagine pitching a tech solution to investors. If one presenter rushes through data while another dives deep into storytelling, the flow feels jarring. Instead, use rehearsals to smooth transitions, align tone, and refine timing: “We’ll start with the problem, layer in the data, and close with our vision.” Your audience values clarity and confidence, and seamless delivery builds both.

Your job?‍

Treat rehearsals as your test runs. Practice as a team, refine your story, and ensure every moment reinforces your purpose. Because precision isn’t optional—it’s what sets you apart

Deliver and engage

It's a conversation not a performance

The best presentations don’t just inform—they engage. Picture a nonprofit leader pitching for donations. Instead of listing achievements, they open with, “What motivates you to give?” This sparks a two-way dialogue, allowing the audience to feel heard and connected. By addressing questions and responding to the room’s energy, the presenter creates an authentic and memorable experience.

Your job?

‍Focus on connection over perfection. Prepare key points, but stay flexible. Make space for curiosity, interaction, and meaningful exchanges—because the real impact happens when your audience feels part of the story.