How to prepare a cohesive group presentation.

Multiple Speakers,

One Message.

"Allow people to brainstorm individually first, then come together to brainstorm as a group."

Whether it is a sales seminar delivered on large stage or an intimate pitch to a new client or potential funder, the mos important thing about a group presentation is that it gives the impression of being put together by one person.

Group presentations with a cohesive point of view and careful preparation offer many advantages compared to those delivered by individuals. They can increase faith in the team, show case individuals discussing their areas of expertise, reduce the monotony of listening to one person speak at length, and allow speakers to play off one another's ideas and energy.

Working in a group can raise the quality of overall presentation. There's less for each person to remember and rehearse, so the presentation should be better.

However, group presentations often lack a collective point of view. What typically happens is that members of the group have the same topic, but when they go to present, sales and operations people will have different messages or the person who explains the new technology won't highlight what the salesperson said.

Ensure a collective point of view and a polished performance the next time your team is charged with giving a group presentation.

These six guidelines will help your group prepare.

1) Start earlier.

2) Have a point person.

3) Develop a perspective and a detailed outline.

4) Craft cohesive visuals.

5) Rehearse effectively.

6) Arrive early.