5 Public Speaking Tips for Presenting Graphics in Proposal Presentations

Technique 1 – Speak to the Slide, Don’t Read It

Problem: Reading word-for-word from slides breaks audience engagement.

Fix: Use the slide as a prompt. Explain the visual in your own words to keep the room focused on you, not the screen.

Technique 2 – Pause to Let Visuals Land

Problem: Rushing past visuals doesn’t give evaluators time to absorb key points.

Fix: After introducing a graphic, pause for 2–3 seconds. Let it breathe before moving on.

Technique 3 – Use Gestures to Guide Attention

Problem: Viewers don’t always know where to look.

Fix: If presenting in person, gesture to key parts of the graphic. Virtually, use your cursor or animation to direct focus.

Technique 4 – Rehearse Transitions Between Visuals

Problem: Awkward slide transitions interrupt your delivery flow.

Fix: Practice what you’ll say before and after each visual. Smooth transitions keep the audience engaged.

Technique 5 – Emphasize the “So What”

Problem: Presenters often describe what the graphic shows, but not why it matters.

Fix: Always tie the graphic back to a key takeaway, evaluator concern, or win theme.