Effective Visual Aids

Steve’s Sales Coaching Tips


Audiences retain more information when they see it and hear it at the same time. Visual aids can make presentations more interesting and effective. Use restraint, imagination, and professional help to maximize their impact.

Basics

-If this is a team presentation, does each presentation complement the others?
-Are the visuals suited to the audience and the room?
-Are the necessary facilities and equipment available?

General rules

-Build visual aids only after developing your content.
-Use visual aids to support your verbal message. Don’t rely on visuals alone to convey your message.
-Prepare visuals specifically for the presentation. Visuals prepared for publications are almost never suitable for use in a presentation.
-Keep visuals simple, uncluttered, and easy to see. K.I.S.S.

Methods of visualizing

-Tables illustrate complex and detailed relationships.
-Graphs help visualize quantitative data and show trends.
-Photographs enhance credibility and realism. Search Flickr.
-Drawings help present abstract concepts.
-Video and film demonstrate action and drama and add variety.
-Word charts are good for emphasis and continuity. Caution: Don’t use for notes or cues.
-Enlarged text can be effective for citing an authority.
-Cartoons help express emotion. Use sparingly.
-Models aid 3D visualization, action, and audience involvement.
-Handouts distract attention. If possible, distribute them at the end.

Remember:
Visual aids compete with you for the audience’s attention. Keep the attention on you. Rehearse often with your visual aids, even if that means using rough-draft artwork. Don’t stand between your audience and the visual aid.

Good Selling!