This post was written by Ang Barnard, Facilitator and Coach for The Latimer Group.
Did you know our brains process visual information 60,000 times faster than text?! This is according to research compiled by 3M, the corporation behind Post-it Notes. In other words, intentionally using visuals in your presentations can help you capture attention and become more persuasive. At The Latimer Group, we recommend a hybrid slide deck design that includes both text and visuals and doing your best to avoid these three common visual mistakes when creating your slide deck.
Mistake #1: The Text Trap
Imagine a presentation with slides crammed with text. It’s not engaging and dilutes your message. Use concise bullet points or eye-catching visuals that complement your narrative. Remember, less is more! Distill key points into bite-sized chunks to captivate your audience.
Mistake #2: The Pitfall of Mediocrity
Stock photos and generic graphics may look polished, but often lack relevance and authenticity, undermining your presentation’s credibility. Opt for high-quality, contextually relevant visuals that resonate with your specific audience. Use compelling infographics, striking photographs or data-rich charts that leave a lasting impression. Consider how the image will impact your audience’s feelings and whether that feeling leads to the thoughts you want them to have.
Mistake #3: The Aesthetic Anomaly
A mishmash of fonts, colors, and visual elements can confuse your audience or distract them. Consistency is key for clarity, credibility, and comprehension. Establish a cohesive visual style and stick to it throughout your slide deck.
In conclusion, strategic use of visuals is essential for effective communication. By avoiding text overload, generic imagery, and visual inconsistency, you can elevate your presentation from forgettable to unforgettable and drive meaningful outcomes.
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Does your team:
– Overwhelm the audience with too much detail?
– Make things too complicated?
– Fail to ask for what they want or need?
Does your organization:
– Waste time because of poor internal communication?
– Take too long to make decisions?
– Struggle to clarify and frame discussions?
Do your leaders:
– Exhibit poor executive presence?
– Lean on incomplete communication skills?
– Fail to align the organization?
We transform teams and individuals with repeatable toolsets for persuasive communication. Explore training, coaching, and consulting services from The Latimer Group.
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