Turn generic slides into deals that close

Why this matters: Starting with proven frameworks saves time and prevents common mistakes. Action items:Review the attached storytelling guide for narrative structure Study the content visualization examples for design inspiration Check the delivery method guide to match format to your meeting type (in-person vs. virtual) Pro tip: Spend 15 minutes reviewing winning decks from similar deals before starting yours.

Why this matters: Generic pitches lose to customized ones. Understanding your audience lets you speak their language and address their specific concerns. Research checklist:Decision makers: Who are the key stakeholders? What are their titles and responsibilities? Pain points: What problems keep them up at night? Success metrics: How do they measure success in their role? Objections: What concerns will they likely raise? Competition: Who else are they evaluating? Pro tip: Check LinkedIn profiles, recent company news, and earnings calls for insights. Output: Complete a one-page audience profile before moving to the next step.

Why this matters: People remember stories, not feature lists. A clear narrative structure keeps your audience engaged and guides them to your desired outcome. Recommended narrative flow:Hook: Start with their problem, not your product Context: Show you understand their world and challenges Solution: Introduce your approach and how it addresses their specific needs Proof: Back it up with relevant case studies, data, or testimonials Next steps: End with a clear, specific call to action Output: Write out your story arc in 5-7 sentences before creating any slides.

Why this matters: Visual slides reinforce your message. Text-heavy slides make audiences read instead of listen to you. Design principles:One idea per slide: If you need two bullets, make two slides Less text, more visuals: Use images, charts, and diagrams over paragraphs Include proof points: Add customer logos, case study results, and ROI data relevant to this prospect Keep it short: Aim for 10-15 slides maximum for a 30-minute meeting Quality check: Can someone understand each slide in under 5 seconds? If not, simplify it.

Why this matters: Knowing your deck cold lets you focus on the conversation and read the room instead of reading slides. Rehearsal checklist:Run through the entire presentation at least twice Time yourself - aim for 60-70% of allotted time to leave room for questions Get feedback from a colleague who can play devils advocate Prepare answers to the 5 most likely objections Practice transitioning between slides naturally Ready test: Can you present the key points without looking at the slides? If yes, you are prepared.

Why this matters: The presentation is just the beginning. Deals are won in the follow-up. During the presentation:Present with confidence - you know this material Pause after key points to invite questions Watch body language and adjust pace accordingly Note any unexpected concerns or interests Immediately after (within 24 hours):Send the deck with a personalized recap of key discussion points Address any unanswered questions from the meeting Confirm the next step you agreed upon Set a calendar reminder for follow-up if no response in 3 days Success metric: Leave with a scheduled next meeting or clear next action.