Harmonizing Verbal and Non-Verbal Aspects in Presentations

1. Importance of Delivery in Presentations

• A presentation is not just about slides; the speaker is the primary focus.
• 90% of the impact comes from verbal and non-verbal communication, while slides contribute only 10%.
• The audience should focus on the speaker first, not the slides.

2. Best Practices for Effective Delivery

1. Control Audience Attention

• Start the presentation without showing slides for the first 45–60 seconds.
• Set the context, introduce yourself, and engage the audience before displaying the first slide.
• Use a black screen technique (blocking the projector temporarily) to keep focus on you.

2. Choreograph Slide Transitions

• Treat the presentation like a performance—slides should appear at the right moment.
• Use a laser pointer or slide changer for smooth transitions.
• Follow the T ÷ 2 rule (e.g., for a 5-minute speech, use max 2-3 slides).

3. Balance Verbal and Non-Verbal Elements

• Voice Modulation – Change tone, speed, and pitch to maintain engagement.
• Gestures & Movement – Avoid blocking the screen or becoming a shadow on the slides.
• Pauses & Emphasis – Give the audience time to read slides before explaining key points.

4. Manage Technical Aspects

• Check cables, ports, and compatibility before presenting.
• Have a backup plan in case slides or technology fail.
• If technology fails, continue speaking confidently—you are the presentation.

3. Key Takeaways

• The speaker is the focus—slides should only support the message.

• Use structured choreography—introduce slides at the right moment.

• Balance verbal and non-verbal cues to engage the audience.

• Prepare for technical issues and have a backup plan.

By mastering these techniques, presentations become more persuasive, engaging, and impactful.