You may be interviewing for a senior role and part of the interview process is that you deliver a presentation to your potential employer. Alternatively, you may be interviewing for a sales or marketing position and a common requirement is that you give a presentation, which often occurs in the second round of the interview process. This could be on a variety of topics. For example, you may be asked to present on what you would do in the first 90 days if you were the successful applicant for the role. Below are 3 good tips to help ensure your presentation is a success.
- Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse
You will typically be given a timeframe that you must stick to for your presentation. Ensure that you thoroughly practice and rehearse your presentation to ensure that you strictly adhere to this timeframe. Being well prepared will make you more comfortable to give a confident delivery as you will be much more confident in the knowledge that you are very well rehearsed.
- Structure your presentation
The simplest structure to use is what is called the 3T’s or Tell, Tell, Tell. Firstly, in your opening slide tell your interview what you are going to tell them. Then “tell them” in more detail by giving your full presentation. Finally, in your final slides, summarise what you have just told them.
Also, try and marry the content of your presentation to what is detailed in the presentation guidelines, which you should be supplied with. The headings in your presentation should resemble the headings or keywords in the presentation specification.
- Seek out an independent critique
If you are using a good recruitment company, they should insist on you coming into their office to conduct a dry run of your presentation. A bit of friendly critical advice in regards timing, general content, content flow, body language and general delivery in terms of engagement and enthusiasm will greatly assist in you delivering a successful interview presentation.
Interview presentations can be a source of stress for many people. However, continuous practice combined with the appropriate structure and some critical expert advice will go a long way in ensuring you deliver a successful interview presentation.
