How to end a presentation

Summary

This video provides practical tips for delivering a strong presentation, especially focusing on how to end effectively. The speaker advises against using clichés like 'Thank you for your attention' and instead recommends summarizing key takeaways or returning to a strong opening statement. The delivery should include strategic use of intonation and tone to signal the end, along with a smile and genuine gratitude to leave a positive impression. These tips help presenters create a memorable and impactful conclusion, ensuring their audience feels appreciated and engaged.

Takeaways

• 😀 Avoid clichés like 'Thank you for your attention' or 'Are there any questions?' when concluding a presentation.
• 😀 Focus on your key messages and summarize them at the end for a memorable conclusion.
• 😀 Revisit your opening statement to create a cohesive and strong ending.
• 😀 Use your voice’s intonation, tone, and pitch to signal the end of your presentation.
• 😀 Gradually lower your voice to indicate that you're finishing the presentation.
• 😀 Smile when thanking your audience to convey gratitude and sincerity.
• 😀 A simple 'Thank you' with a smile is more effective than a generic 'Thank you for your attention'.
• 😀 Ending with a strong, clear conclusion helps reinforce your message and leaves a lasting impact.
• 😀 A good conclusion ties everything together and makes your presentation feel complete.
• 😀 Utilize body language and facial expressions to match the tone of your conclusion.
• 😀 Be mindful of your delivery at the end; it plays a crucial role in how your audience perceives your message.

Q & A

Why do many people struggle with ending their presentations effectively?

Many people struggle with ending their presentations because they tend to finish with a vague or weak conclusion, such as saying 'Thank you for your attention' or 'Are there any questions?' which doesn't provide a strong or memorable ending.

What are some clichés to avoid when concluding a presentation?

Clichés to avoid include phrases like 'Thank you for your attention' and 'Are there any questions?' as these don't provide a strong or impactful conclusion.

What is a more effective way to end a presentation instead of using clichés?

A more effective way is to summarize your key messages, the take-home points you want the audience to remember. You could also end with the same strong statement you started with, reinforcing your main idea.

Why is it important to highlight key messages at the end of a presentation?

Highlighting key messages at the end reinforces the main ideas, making it easier for the audience to remember the most important points of the presentation.

How can you use your initial statement to enhance your presentation ending?

By starting with a strong statement and revisiting that same statement at the end, you create a sense of closure and reinforce your message, making the conclusion feel more powerful and complete.

How does intonation impact the ending of a presentation?

Intonation, tone of voice, and pitch are essential in signaling the end of a presentation. A well-paced, lower tone with a sense of finality helps the audience understand that the presentation is concluding.

Can you give an example of how to use intonation at the end of a presentation?

An example would be saying, 'That ladies and gentlemen, was what I wanted to share with you,' while gradually lowering your tone. This signals that the presentation is wrapping up.

Why is smiling important when thanking the audience at the end of a presentation?

Smiling while thanking the audience helps convey sincerity and gratitude. Without a smile, the audience might not feel that you're genuinely appreciative of their attention.

How should you modify the phrase 'Thank you for your attention' for a more effective ending?

Instead of saying 'Thank you for your attention,' simply say 'Thank you' while maintaining a smile. This signals that the presentation has concluded in a more personal and genuine way.

What is the benefit of having a clear and definitive ending to a presentation?

A clear and definitive ending helps the audience feel that the presentation has come to a natural close, making it more memorable and leaving a lasting impression.