How to Use Visuals and Present Positively

Abstract

Visuals can potentially strengthen the audience’s ability to understand the subject of your presentation, to clarify particular points, to add to your impact as a presenter and to generate more enthusiasm in your listeners. The term “visuals” refers to any material of a visual nature, which includes graphics, photographic images, video clips, animations and so on. Having identified a part in a presentation where a visual is suitable, presenters should first ensure that the visual can be readily understood at a glance by the audience. Clarity is vitally important. Whilst visuals may be used at any point in a presentation, they are best reserved to emphasise key messages. Too many visuals can put a strain on audiences. The choice of visuals is something to approach carefully. You will need images of a kind that speak clearly to the audience. Visuals should reflect your audience’s tastes and be of things they find familiar. If you are talking about food to an Italian audience, Chinese bird nest soup is a less effective visual than a plate of steaming tagliatelle. Consider in addition what type of visual is suited to the occasion. Humorous cartoon images are suitable if the event is relatively light-hearted. Conversely, more serious or formal events call for more sober-looking illustrations.