We're not here to mess around at JAZPRESENTS.
Here are ten lesser-known presentation design “secrets” to help you leave a lasting impression in 2025.
1. Know your audience’s decision-making style
Customise visuals and storytelling techniques to appeal to either data-driven decision-makers (use data visualisation and statistics) or creative types (focus on bold visuals and narratives).
2. Interactive elements for enhanced engagement
Use interactive elements like clickable links in PowerPoint or Google Slides to create a non-linear presentation that lets your audience dive into sections of interest.
3. Harness animation subtly to guide your audience's focus
Use subtle animations to draw attention to key points, avoiding over-the-top effects that distract. Motion can direct the viewer’s eye in a way that static slides can’t.
4. Design with the 'F' pattern in mind
Organise slides based on the natural way eyes move across content, which often follows an “F” pattern (left to right, top to bottom). Place essential information along this path.
5. Storyboarding your presentation flow
Before diving into design, create a storyboard of your slides to ensure a logical and compelling narrative flow. This process ensures the presentation tells a cohesive story.
6. Integrate micro-moments for emphasis
Add “micro-moments” or quick, impactful sections that highlight key takeaways with visuals or bold statements. These are memorable and give the audience moments to pause and reflect.
7. Optimise images for load speed and quality
High-quality images are essential, but heavy files can slow presentations. Use image compression tools to keep visuals sharp while optimising slide load speed.
8. Design a consistent colour story with brand colours
Choose a consistent palette that aligns with your brand while evoking specific emotions. Use colours thoughtfully to reflect the tone of each section (e.g., blue for data, red for urgency).
9. Include “hidden” agenda slides
Insert agenda slides throughout the presentation with a quick “where we are” indicator. It helps the audience track your progress, which is especially helpful for longer presentations.
10. We all know a Canva when we see one
The use of AI tools for presentation creation has become a hot topic. Even PowerPoint or Google Slides jumped on the bandwagon and now recommend layouts and adjust designs for you. These tools can save time, but once you've seen one you've seen them all. If you're pushed for time and this is the only route, use the base as inspiration and try to design around your brand elements.
Conclusion: why professional presentation design is a worthy investment
Creating a standout presentation is more than a good deck of slides—it’s an investment in how your ideas are perceived. From typography to colour choices to impactful data visualisation, each design element plays a role in boosting engagement, trust, and your overall message.
Ready to take your presentations to the next level?