How Should You Prepare for Any PowerPoint Presentation?

1.  Practice your presentation especially if someone else has created it.  You should know your message whether or not you can run the slideshow.

2.  Find out what version of PowerPoint the client is using especially if you are using 2007.  (Tip: Save one version lower by click File|Save As|Save as Type.)

3.  Practice running your presentation on a projector, if possible.  If you don’t have access to a projector, practice on your desktop to make sure all your transitions, animations, and multimedia files work.To prevent the “It looks great on my screen, but…”

4.  Copy all PowerPoint Presentation files and linked files (Fonts, Video, audio, etc.) to a memory stick or CD by using the Pack and Go (PowerPoint Versions 2002 or older) or the Package for CD (Versions 2003 and 2007) feature.  Reason: The client may not have your version of PowerPoint, e.g. 2007, so this feature allows you to run the presentation without PowerPoint program.

5.  Make sure you scan for viruses if you are using the client’s computer.

6.  Make 2 print outs of your presentation: Note Pages and Handouts.  Reason: You may get a change in your time to present.  You can quickly mark the slides and points that you want to highlight.  (Tip: Click File|Print |Print What and select Note Pages and Handouts.  In 2007, Click the Office Button|Print|Print What.)

7.  Make a branded blank handout so that your audience can take notes.  Do not give out handouts of your slideshow.  A few reasons include preventing people from copy your material or, people asking questions ahead of the presentation that can throw off your rhythm.

Want to learn to craft effective messages in PowerPoint?  Starting January 17, 2008, CRT will be offering basic and advanced workshops along with the “What can you say in 5 Minute with PowerPoint?” series that will get your audience to take action.  Visit us at http://crtconsulting.net/5minpttonline.html for more details and to signup.