How to structure a business networking presentation
This article was provided by Adam Thwaites, Head of Marketing at The CPD Certification Service and offers a basic outline on how to structure a business networking presentation. There are of course many advanced elements that can be put in to a business networking presentation, such as multimedia and participant-based activities, however this article simply introduces the basics to help anyone new to presentations get started.
How to structure a business networking presentation
Presentations can be broken down into four main parts, the introduction, subject matter, summary and feedback. If a business networking presentation is built on this simple format, it will stay relevant and help to keep audience engagement.
Part one – the introduction
The introduction provides the opportunity to outline the structure of the business networking presentation and set expectations the audience. The introduction includes introducing yourself, the title of your presentation, and then to explain the key learning aims and objectives of the presentation. If suitable, the introduction can then explain any other important points that may be relevant, before moving onto the subject matter itself.
Part two – subject matter
The subject matter is the main detail of your business networking presentation. This may include the core message that you wish to convey to the audience, as well as information about your organisation, experience and expertise. One of the key things to remember when presenting your subject matter is to take your time and not rush through the delivery. If there is a lot of information, break it down into smaller, more manageable sections with break points suitably placed. Make sure your business networking presentation follows a logical structure, start with the lighter detail, and move deeper into content as the presentation progresses.
One of the important factors to consider when presenting the subject matter of your presentation, is to ask yourself ‘why is this important to the audience?’. For instance, explain the impact, highlight main issues and consequences related to the subject matter, including case studies and examples if possible. Identity industry challenges and important events that ultimately have led to the reason this subject matter is to be shared. Within the subject matter section of the presentation is also the opportunity to make recommendations, show solutions, alternative suggestions, and new approaches.
Part three – summary
Many presentations forget to add a summary. It may not seem like an important point at first, however the summary is the key details that you wish the audience to take away from the business networking presentation. There may have been a lot of information in the subject matter, so the summary offers an opportunity to reiterate the most important take-away aspects.
Do not rush the summary, it is often the most remembered part (aside from the case studies or interactive elements which help to embed knowledge). It is ok to stress the key points and repeat important messages from earlier in the presentation. The summary can also be a good point to provide website links, documents or handouts for further reading and research.
Part four – feedback
Asking for feedback on your business networking presentation is a great way to improve your skills quickly. Feedback is useful whether good or bad. Good feedback improves confidence. Bad feedback improves materials and long-term ability.
We hope this article on how to structure a business networking presentation was helpful. Find out more about that networking group and our members.