how to end a demo presentation

30 Examples: How to Conclude a Presentation (Effective Closing Techniques)

By Status.net Editorial Team on March 4, 2024 — 9 minutes to read

Ending a presentation on a high note is a skill that can set you apart from the rest. It’s the final chance to leave an impact on your audience, ensuring they walk away with the key messages embedded in their minds. This moment is about driving your points home and making sure they resonate. Crafting a memorable closing isn’t just about summarizing key points, though that’s part of it, but also about providing value that sticks with your listeners long after they’ve left the room.

Crafting Your Core Message

To leave a lasting impression, your presentation’s conclusion should clearly reflect your core message. This is your chance to reinforce the takeaways and leave the audience thinking about your presentation long after it ends.

Identifying Key Points

Start by recognizing what you want your audience to remember. Think about the main ideas that shaped your talk. Make a list like this:

• The problem your presentation addresses.
• The evidence that supports your argument.
• The solution you propose or the action you want the audience to take.

These key points become the pillars of your core message.

Contextualizing the Presentation

Provide context by briefly relating back to the content of the whole presentation. For example:

• Reference a statistic you shared in the opening, and how it ties into the conclusion.
• Mention a case study that underlines the importance of your message.

Connecting these elements gives your message cohesion and makes your conclusion resonate with the framework of your presentation.

30 Example Phrases: How to Conclude a Presentation

• 1. “In summary, let’s revisit the key takeaways from today’s presentation.”
• 2. “Thank you for your attention. Let’s move forward together.”
• 3. “That brings us to the end. I’m open to any questions you may have.”
• 4. “I’ll leave you with this final thought to ponder as we conclude.”
• 5. “Let’s recap the main points before we wrap up.”
• 6. “I appreciate your engagement. Now, let’s turn these ideas into action.”
• 7. “We’ve covered a lot today. To conclude, remember these crucial points.”
• 8. “As we reach the end, I’d like to emphasize our call to action.”
• 9. “Before we close, let’s quickly review what we’ve learned.”
• 10. “Thank you for joining me on this journey. I look forward to our next steps.”
• 11. “In closing, I’d like to thank everyone for their participation.”
• 12. “Let’s conclude with a reminder of the impact we can make together.”
• 13. “To wrap up our session, here’s a brief summary of our discussion.”
• 14. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to present to you. Any final thoughts?”
• 15. “And that’s a wrap. I welcome any final questions or comments.”
• 16. “As we conclude, let’s remember the objectives we’ve set today.”
• 17. “Thank you for your time. Let’s apply these insights to achieve success.”
• 18. “In conclusion, your feedback is valuable, and I’m here to listen.”
• 19. “Before we part, let’s take a moment to reflect on our key messages.”
• 20. “I’ll end with an invitation for all of us to take the next step.”
• 21. “As we close, let’s commit to the goals we’ve outlined today.”
• 22. “Thank you for your attention. Let’s keep the conversation going.”
• 23. “In conclusion, let’s make a difference, starting now.”
• 24. “I’ll leave you with these final words to consider as we end our time together.”
• 25. “Before we conclude, remember that change starts with our actions today.”
• 26. “Thank you for the lively discussion. Let’s continue to build on these ideas.”
• 27. “As we wrap up, I encourage you to reach out with any further questions.”
• 28. “In closing, I’d like to express my gratitude for your valuable input.”
• 29. “Let’s conclude on a high note and take these learnings forward.”
• 30. “Thank you for your time today. Let’s end with a commitment to progress.”

Summarizing the Main Points

When you reach the end of your presentation, summarizing the main points helps your audience retain the important information you’ve shared. Crafting a memorable summary enables your listeners to walk away with a clear understanding of your message.

Effective Methods of Summarization

To effectively summarize your presentation, you need to distill complex information into concise, digestible pieces. Start by revisiting the overarching theme of your talk and then narrow down to the core messages. Use plain language and imagery to make the enduring ideas stick. Here are some examples of how to do this:

• Use analogies that relate to common experiences to recap complex concepts.
• Incorporate visuals or gestures that reinforce your main arguments.

The Rule of Three

The Rule of Three is a classic writing and communication principle. It means presenting ideas in a trio, which is a pattern that’s easy for people to understand and remember. For instance, you might say, “Our plan will save time, cut costs, and improve quality.” This structure has a pleasing rhythm and makes the content more memorable. Some examples include:

• “This software is fast, user-friendly, and secure.”
• Pointing out a product’s “durability, affordability, and eco-friendliness.”

Reiterating the Main Points

Finally, you want to circle back to the key takeaways of your presentation. Rephrase your main points without introducing new information. This reinforcement supports your audience’s memory and understanding of the material. You might summarize key takeaways like this:

• Mention the problem you addressed, the solution you propose, and the benefits of this solution.
• Highlighting the outcomes of adopting your strategy: higher efficiency, greater satisfaction, and increased revenue.

Creating a Strong Conclusion

The final moments of your presentation are your chance to leave your audience with a powerful lasting impression. A strong conclusion is more than just summarizing—it’s your opportunity to invoke thought, inspire action, and make your message memorable.

Incorporating a Call to Action

A call to action is your parting request to your audience. You want to inspire them to take a specific action or think differently as a result of what they’ve heard. To do this effectively:

• Be clear about what you’re asking.
• Explain why their action is needed.
• Make it as simple as possible for them to take the next steps.

Example Phrases:

• “Start making a difference today by…”
• “Join us in this effort by…”
• “Take the leap and commit to…”

Leaving a Lasting Impression

End your presentation with something memorable. This can be a powerful quote, an inspirational statement, or a compelling story that underscores your main points. The goal here is to resonate with your audience on an emotional level so that your message sticks with them long after they leave.

• “In the words of [Influential Person], ‘…'”
• “Imagine a world where…”
• “This is more than just [Topic]; it’s about…”

Enhancing Audience Engagement

To hold your audience’s attention and ensure they leave with a lasting impression of your presentation, fostering interaction is key.

Q&A Sessions

It’s important to integrate a Q&A session because it allows for direct communication between you and your audience. This interactive segment helps clarify any uncertainties and encourages active participation. Plan for this by designating a time slot towards the end of your presentation and invite questions that promote discussion.

• “I’d love to hear your thoughts; what questions do you have?”
• “Let’s dive into any questions you might have. Who would like to start?”
• “Feel free to ask any questions, whether they’re clarifications or deeper inquiries about the topic.”

Encouraging Audience Participation

Getting your audience involved can transform a good presentation into a great one. Use open-ended questions that provoke thought and allow audience members to reflect on how your content relates to them. Additionally, inviting volunteers to participate in a demonstration or share their experiences keeps everyone engaged and adds a personal touch to your talk.

• “Could someone give me an example of how you’ve encountered this in your work?”
• “I’d appreciate a volunteer to help demonstrate this concept. Who’s interested?”
• “How do you see this information impacting your daily tasks? Let’s discuss!”

Delivering a Persuasive Ending

At the end of your presentation, you have the power to leave a lasting impact on your audience. A persuasive ending can drive home your key message and encourage action.

Sales and Persuasion Tactics

When you’re concluding a presentation with the goal of selling a product or idea, employ carefully chosen sales and persuasion tactics. One method is to summarize the key benefits of your offering, reminding your audience why it’s important to act. For example, if you’ve just presented a new software tool, recap how it will save time and increase productivity. Another tactic is the ‘call to action’, which should be clear and direct, such as “Start your free trial today to experience the benefits first-hand!” Furthermore, using a touch of urgency, like “Offer expires soon!”, can nudge your audience to act promptly.

Final Impressions and Professionalism

Your closing statement is a chance to solidify your professional image and leave a positive impression. It’s important to display confidence and poise. Consider thanking your audience for their time and offering to answer any questions. Make sure to end on a high note by summarizing your message in a concise and memorable way. If your topic was on renewable energy, you might conclude by saying, “Let’s take a leap towards a greener future by adopting these solutions today.” This reinforces your main points and encourages your listeners to think or act differently when they leave.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some creative strategies for ending a presentation memorably.

To end your presentation in a memorable way, consider incorporating a call to action that engages your audience to take the next step. Another strategy is to finish with a thought-provoking question or a surprising fact that resonates with your listeners.

Can you suggest some powerful quotes suitable for concluding a presentation?

Yes, using a quote can be very effective. For example, Maya Angelou’s “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel,” can reinforce the emotional impact of your presentation.

What is an effective way to write a conclusion that summarizes a presentation?

An effective conclusion should recap the main points succinctly, highlighting what you want your audience to remember. A good way to conclude is by restating your thesis and then briefly summarizing the supporting points you made.

As a student, how can I leave a strong impression with my presentation’s closing remarks?

To leave a strong impression, consider sharing a personal anecdote related to your topic that demonstrates passion and conviction. This helps humanize your content and makes the message more relatable to your audience.

How can I appropriately thank my audience at the close of my presentation?

A simple and sincere expression of gratitude is always appropriate. You might say, “Thank you for your attention and engagement today,” to convey appreciation while also acknowledging their participation.

What are some examples of a compelling closing sentence in a presentation?

A compelling closing sentence could be something like, “Together, let’s take the leap towards a greener future,” if you’re presenting on sustainability. This sentence is impactful, calls for united action, and leaves your audience with a clear message.

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How to End a Presentation with Punch (17 Techniques)

• PowerPoint Tutorials
• Presentation Design
• March 5, 2019

In this post you’ll learn 17 different ways for how to end a presentation that you can test out.

Why worry about the ending?

Because how you end your presentation is just as important as how you start your presentation ( details here ).

If you start strong but flounder at the end of your presentation, what feeling are people going to be walking away with?

Not a good one, that’s for sure! That’s why the ending your presentation is so important.

1. Call to action

2. Skip the Q&A at the end your presentation

3. End your presentation with a rhetorical Question

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4. Conclude your speech with a story

As you can learn in our post on the best ways to start a presentation ( details here ), emotional listeners retain more information. An emotional story, whether it’s funny, sad, or thought-provoking, is a sure fire way to engage your audience.

If you can, try to tie the beginning and end together with your stories, like Heather Lanier does here:

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5. The power of 3 for your conclusion

6. Come full circle at the end of your presentation

• Pose a question which you answer at the end
• Tell a story and either refer to it or finish it at the end
• Repeat the first slide, this work especially well with powerful images or quotes

7. Demonstrate your product

8. End with an either / or scenario

9. End your presentation on a high note

10. A sound bite

11. End with a provocative question

12. Use the title close technique

13. A quick presentation recap

14. End with a powerful quote

15. End with a strong visual image

16. Close with a clear cut ending

17. End your presentation on time

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The Top 7 Tips for Pulling Off a Great Demo Presentation

Demo presentations are a powerful tool for running and growing your business. When done well, a demo presentation allows clients, investors or potential customers to see and feel how things will be better for them if they buy or invest in your company or product. Often generic demo presentations do just the opposite, leaving the meeting participants bored and disinterested. Here are seven tips to pull off a great demo presentation.

What is a demo presentation?

A demo presentation is a visual demonstration of a product or service for current or prospective clients. A great demo presentation will grab your audience’s attention right away by clearly communicating what they care about and by using reliable, high quality video presentation tools.

Step one: determine who you are presenting to 

In order to deliver an effective demo presentation, you must know your audience. Do your homework and find out all you can about your prospects so you can tailor your presentation to them and be prepared for different meeting scenarios. This is vital in deciding how you’re going to best convey everything you need to get across in your presentation and what use cases you will share that directly relates to them. Here are four common types of meeting participants and how best to deal with them. 

The Wallflower

Do you know the person you’re presenting to is reserved? The wallflower may need you to prompt them with questions or ask them for their input to really spark a conversation. Having an open dialog with meeting participants will help you connect with them and personalize the presentation. As you continue your software demo, refer back to the participants’ contributions to continue to make them feel included in the presentation.

The Questioner

If you anticipate your audience asking a lot of questions, come ready with answers and customer examples to help back you up. If the questions are not adding value to the demo presentation or become too disruptive, politely ask the audience to hold questions until the end of the presentation.

The Combative

Going in knowing it’s going to be a tough sell? Do all your research beforehand and anticipate what their push back might be. No matter what, don’t get flustered during your demo presentation. When the audience senses your frustration, it’s likely to be a distraction, and it will not result in a positive outcome. Always remain professional throughout your presentation no matter how your audience behaves. If necessary, ask the audience members to hold questions and comments until the end of the meeting. 

The Multitasker 

Presenting to people who are using their phone or laptop during your demo? In order to grab their attention, start your presentation with a bold statement, humor or question. Continue to engage your audience by making your presentation interactive and relatable to pull them away from their devices. 

Three types of product demos

Pitching in your office.

This is the ideal place to host your presentation because you have home-court advantage. The Florida State football team won 37 games in a row at home for a reason: it’s an advantage. When presenting in your own office you get to use presentation tools that you’re comfortable with, limit distractions, control the environment and set the tone for the presentation. 

Pitching in their office

When you are presenting in an unfamiliar environment, it’s important to know which presentation tools are available so you can prepare in advance. Arrive early to the meeting to get set up, familiarize yourself with their presentation tools and practice a run-through of your demo to make sure everything runs smoothly. Also, arriving early gives you the opportunity to meet and connect with some of the people in the audience to help tailor your demo and customer stories to their experiences. 

Pitching remote

In order to save time and travel cost, doing a demo presentation over a video conference call is a great option. Make sure you use a high-quality, easy-to-use video conferencing solution. Don’t give off the wrong first impression by having a poor connection or pixelated video. Lifesize’s video conferencing technology will help you put your best foot forward to really wow clients with stunning 4K video quality and full motion 4K presentation sharing. 

Three ways sales demos can go seriously wrong

Confidential messages get shared on screen.

We’ve all been in meetings where the presenter’s private work and personal messages start popping up on screen and disrupting the meeting. To save yourself embarrassment and major distractions during your presentation, make sure you only share what is relevant to your demo.  Silence all notifications on your laptop and other smart devices before the start of your presentation.

Your video software flakes out

Technical snafus in the middle of a presentation is one of the most common ways demos go wrong. This not only looks bad for you and your company, but it has the potential to completely derail the entire presentation. Make sure you use a reliable video conferencing solution and test it out before the start of the presentation. Sometimes issues are outside your control, like a bad internet connection, so have a backup plan for your demo presentation.

Directly reading your notes or slides

Nothing is less engaging than a presenter directly reading from their notes or slides during a demo. Bring notes just in case you need to refer to them, but don’t directly read your notes or slides during your presentation. Your slides should contain just a few words or short sentences to set the tone of the topic you’re discussing but ovoid cluttering your slides with wordy paragraphs.  Practice your pitch until you can consistently and comfortably talk about your new product without reading from your slides or notes.

Seven tips for a winning demo presentation 

1. prepare a script.

Start off by preparing a presentation outline or script that follows a logical flow. Keep each section short, precise and easy to understand. If possible, try to work in bold statements, humor or simple tweet-able soundbites to really capture the audience’s attention. 

2. Practice and rehearse

Since you will not be directly reading your script during your presentation, practice memorizing and saying your script until you’re comfortable with it. You do not have to memorize your script verbatim, but you will need to be familiar enough with it that you can speak about each point in a conversational tone. Presenting to coworkers or family members is a great way to practice your demo and you can also record your demo presentation  to review the content and get comfortable with the flow.  

3. Anticipate questions

Each audience member will come to your presentation with different experiences and backgrounds so be prepared for a variety of questions. Try to anticipate possible questions and how you will respond to each one. When practicing your demo for coworkers or family members, ask them to help you come up with an exhaustive list of all the different questions that may be asked during your presentation.  

4. Tailor for specific audiences

Every audience is different, and your demo presentation should be too. The presentation should be built specifically for the prospect to reflect their unique business processes and include data that directly relates to their company. In addition, you should tailor how you conduct your presentation for each audience as well. An effective demo presentation for an HR manager may not go over as well for a CEO. Some prospects may be more interested in the details and appreciate graphs and diagrams while others may get more out of watching a video or live demonstration. Research the company and decision makers you are presenting to and find ways to make your demo engaging for them.

5. Provide use cases

One of the best ways to make your demo presentation relatable to your audience is to find examples of customers similar to them that have successfully used your product or service. Start with the pain points your customer was facing and give specific details of how your product or service solved those issues. Demonstrate how your audience can have the same positive outcome as the customers in your use cases. 

6. Have reliable video conferencing

Even if most of your audience is in the same room as you, video conferencing enables remote participants to get access to critical nonverbal communication elements. For virtual attendees, the quality of your video service will set the tone for your presentation. Partner with a solution that makes it easy for remote participants to join the demo presentation without having to download an app or install software.

7. Share slides & follow up

After you’ve completed the demo keep the conversation going by sharing your slide deck and following up with your audience. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that, if they heard a pitch once, they understand it. Chances are they didn’t get it all the first time so you must tell them again. In your follow up message, thank the audience for their time, reinforce the value your product or service can provide them and give them an actionable next step.

“Presentation time with potential clients is a precious and limited commodity so it’s important to make the most of it.  The more details you know about your prospects before the meeting, the better you can tailor your sales demo to speak to them as individuals. A generic presentation won’t stir up an emotional response.”

— Jeremy Wycherly, Senior Director, Inside Sales at Lifesize

How Lifesize demos products

Face to face.

To save time and travel costs, a face-to-face video conference call is a great option for demo presentations. The human element of face-to-face communication provides a more natural experience and helps you connect with the audience. Lifesize video and audio clarity makes you feel like you are in the same room as your audience and lets you present your business in the best light and make an unrivaled first impression.

Wireless screen sharing

From sharing your laptop screen to playing full-motion videos, Lifesize Share™  makes it remarkably easy to wirelessly present in the meeting room. You don’t have to waste time trying to find and pass along the right dongle or cord. Share your screen in real-time, play a video and control your presentation right from your mobile device or laptop with Lifesize Share.  

Full motion content sharing

No one enjoys sitting through a presentation with pixelated and poor-quality video. Lifesize’s 4K full-motion content sharing ensures that the quality and fine details of the product or service you’re demoing are maintained during your presentation. Prospects feel more confident purchasing a product or service when the presentation visuals are crisp, clear and realistic. The unmatched Lifesize full-motion 4K content sharing and stunning 4K video quality brings your demos to life.

You can have a great product or service but if your demo is not winning your audience’s attention, then you’ve wasted their time and yours. As you gain experience and become more confident doing demo presentations, you will soon approach them as an exciting opportunity to win new business rather than a daunting challenge. Communicating clearly, focusing on the things your audience cares about and using reliable, high quality video presentation tools will greatly improve your chances of closing the deal. Don’t give off the wrong first impression by having a poor connection or pixelated video. Lifesize video conferencing technology helps you put your best foot forward to really wow potential clients with stunning 4K video quality and ultra-high definition full motion content sharing.

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Improving the Video Conferencing Experience in the Era of Remote Work

In case you’ve been living under a rock for the past six months, it’s clear that remote work and distributed teams are here to stay, even after the pandemic recedes. While some workers will gradually find their way back to in-person (office or otherwise) workplace settings, this is just the on-ramp to the highway of working from anywhere for many others.

How To Prepare a Great Software Demo Presentation in 2024 [With Demo Scripts]

Last week we were at a friend's place for dinner when our friend's 10-year-old daughter appeared from the kitchen wearing her chef's hat and holding a pan with some delicious-looking pudding. She announced, "Look what I have whipped up for you all." And at once, we're all curious! 

Almost all of us asked in unison, "What is it?" She smiled and said, "Why don't you try it yourself?" We all took a spoon and tasted that yummy caramel pudding she had baked for us!

That's what a demo presenter is an expert in —-- to create a great demo experience for their potential client. 

In fact, the famous Pepsi Challenge campaign gained its popularity because the brand asked the same question to its audience. 

In the 1970s, Pepsi grew tired of being the second best to Coca Cola which dominated the soft drink industry at that time. To create a stir, Pepsi took to the shopping malls in America and asked the customers: Why don't you try it yourself? Shoppers were encouraged to taste both Colas, and Pepsi was preferred. The Pepsi Challenge became popular and has been in Pepsi's ongoing marketing campaign for years. 

Software companies can create a similar buzz with their product demos. This article will discuss the different aspects of a great software demo presentation. Plus, there are some free script templates for those who can hang around till the end. 😉 

What is a Software Demo Presentation?

A software demo or demonstration is a visual walkthrough of the software. Sales reps, solution engineers, and AEs heavily depend on product demos to show the product in action to their customers to engage, attract, and persuade them. A software product demonstration includes a complete rundown of its features, selling points, and how it solves the customers' pain points. 

The Anatomy of an Effective Software Demo Presentation

Now that we know what a software demo is, let’s understand the key ingredients of a software demo presentation. 

An Interesting Opening

Start your demo with something that sparks the viewer’s interest. It might be a fun welcome message, an interesting stat tying to their pain point, a success story of one of your customers with a similar problem, an image, or a video. 

Relevance to Audience and Their Problem

Before you start creating a software demo, understand the purpose of your demo. If the purpose of the demo is to solve a customer problem, understand the problem you're trying to solve. Once this is created, you can better focus on your demo. 

A Narrative that Ties Back to the Pain Point

Once you have gathered all the information, map the painpoints with your product features and how they ease your prospect’s painpoint. To maintain viewer engagement with your demo, don't just focus on guiding them through your product. Create a compelling narrative that ties back to the pain points. 

A Strong Demo Script

To build an effective software demo, you need a strong demo script where you can weave in a storyline that engages the customer. For example, a story that starts with a problem and then tells the solution and the product's benefits works best for a demo script.  

Product in Action

Of course, people want to see how your product works, but they also want to see and understand the step-by-step process of which button to click and how to make the most use of each feature button. So pay attention to breaking down the process in a small step-by-step guide. 

Engaging Visuals

Don't make your demo presentation too boring. Add visual elements like attractive title screens, icons, characters, and transitions to make the demo appealing. 

A Clear Call to Action

Your demo presentation should be tied back to the purpose of your demo creation through a strong call to action or CTA. For example, if your purpose is to drive more sign-ups for a free trial, your CTA should say, "Sign up and enjoy a free trial”!  

Track Engagement

Examine the analytics like when the demo was viewed, which screen had the longest and shortest view time, who all have viewed the demo, etc., so your sales team can follow up with the prospect. 

Secondary CTA

Some viewers might not reach the end of the demo. Encourage them to take action by placing a secondary CTA in the middle of the demo. 

What Not To Include in a Software Demo 

No matter how great your software is, if it's not presented well, it will fail to pique the interest of the decision-makers. In this section, you will learn where most sales reps go wrong so that you can learn from their mistakes.  

Curse of Knowledge - The Cognitive Bias

Most demo presenters don't visually emphasize the mouse pointer on the screen and help us see what they're doing on the screen. This happens from the curse of knowledge or cognitive bias that arises when you have used any tool for a considerable period. As a result, the sales rep assumes the software is easy for everyone unless someone points it out. 

How to solve it: Make sure to zoom in on where you're clicking so that everyone can see what you're doing. Highlight and mark important areas in the software so that everyone can see and understand easily. Zoomit.exe is a free tool that you can use for zooming and highlighting. 

Overloading with Features

Your prospective client doesn't want to listen to all the features of your product and how incredible they are. They are only interested in how those features can solve their problem.  

How to solve it: Highlight the features that will be useful for them. Remember to prioritize value over functionality. 

Sticking to the Script

It's always advisable to create a demo script and prepare and rehearse well before going for a demo presentation. But it may look awkward if the prospect asks you any question in between, but you draw a blank simply because it’s not in your script.

How to solve it: Learn to be flexible in using the script. For example, if the prospect is asking some questions, pause and take a moment to respond to the question. 

A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Software Demo Presentation

While you need to think and act quickly on the field while presenting a demo, it’s always helpful to think ahead and structure your demo to keep it under your control. It helps you stay prepared, feel confident, and have a structured flow to your demo presentation. 

Introduce Yourself

The main purpose of introducing yourself is to warm up with the prospect. Once you introduce yourself, give a brief context to your demo. Here’s an example as shared by  Alexander Mackinlay of Qobra: 

“I had planned 45 mins for our meeting today. Is that still okay for you? Do you have a hard stop afterward? What I had in mind for us today:

•  We'll start with a recap of what we discussed last time so that we can readjust if anything has changed.
•  Prospect X and Y *(who were not there at the first meeting)*, this recap will enable you to add your own points of view and to let me know what you are individually expecting from this meeting.
•  I have listed a number of questions I would like to ask you;
•  Then we can move on to the demo;
•  We'll need to keep 20 minutes at the end, where I'd like you to be in a position where 1) either you tell me that you want to move forward with us and we plan a potential next step, 2) you'd prefer that we stop our conversations there.

How does this agenda sound to you?”

Ending the introduction with a question always opens up room for initiating a conversation!

Tie Back the Product Features as the Solution to Their Problem

As we mentioned earlier, don’t stuff your demo with all the features and every little detail your tool has. Instead, focus on the prospect’s pain point and tie back the features as the solution to those pain points. Here’s an example as shared by Gong .  

You: As we discussed last week, it seems that (problem) is one of your major concerns at the moment. Is that right?

Prospect: Yes, that’s right.

You: Great, let’s dive in and allow me to show you how our product can solve your problem. 

Create a WOW Moment

Create a WOW moment that will compel the prospect to remember you and your product. It’s the time for the showmanship and you don't tell but show it to your prospect.

Using an interactive product demo is a great way to create this WOW moment sooner because it lets the prospect try out the tool themselves in a sandbox environment without the intervention of a salesperson.

Here's how Semrush uses Storylane's interactive product tours to showcase their platform👇

Also Read: How Horizon Education eliminated manual sandboxes for product trials with Storylane

Here’s a sample script:

‍ “Now let me show you how you can send emails to your entire email list by clicking this one button.”   

Encourage Them to Ask Questions

Prospects who’re more engaged are more likely to buy. Encourage them to ask questions to ensure they’re still engaged with your demo. Here’s how Gong suggests doing it.  

“I’ll pause here for you to ask questions, if any, before we move on to the next step. 

Is this something you’ll use for [the prospect’s problem]

How do you see you and your team using this tool?”

Next Step and Close

Reiterate the message at the end of the demo presentation and close it with a CTA or the next step. Do you want the prospect to sign up a form, schedule a follow-up meeting, or move into the final stage of signing the deal? Whatever may be your next step, add it to your demo script and communicate it clearly before ending the presentation. Here’s a sample:

"How does this compare to your current process?"

"You previously mentioned one of the things you are looking to solve is X. I just showed you how our platform solves that. On a scale of 1-10, how well do you feel we address your issue?"

Keep the question open-ended and be specific. That will encourage the prospect to speak. Avoid questions like “Do you have any questions?” which will mostly lead to a no, in most cases, especially if the prospect has already lost interest in the product. 

3 Software Demo Presentation Templates

 DEMO START

Recap customer's issues and ask to validate again. Then ask if things have changed or if we missed anything last time. Ask those who were not there prior to this meeting for their challenges and expectations for this meeting. Ask all questions you might need answers to before starting the demo.

DEMO SCRIPT

During the demo, ask validating questions after each feature presentation. 

For example, if the prospect says, “My current pain point is X,” your script should say, “Based on X pain that you mentioned, this is how the feature Y solves it.”

Here’s another example. 

If the customer says, “I’m concerned about data security,” your script should say, 

“Y is a SaaS Cloud-based platform with SOC2 certification. This means that your data is very secure.”

CLOSING THE DEMO

At the end of the demo, don't say, "Do you have any questions?" which will only lead to a "No, that's okay.” Prospects who lose interest during your demo won’t usually tell you what they think unless you ask them. Add a personal touch. You’d better say:

“What about this is most interesting to you?”

“How do you see this helping with [challenge or goal they shared during discovery?”

“Was there anything you were hoping to see on this call that you didn’t?”

“Was there anything you saw on this call that didn't meet your expectations?”

If everything goes as planned, these questions above should then naturally take your prospect to set up the next step around pricing and ROI with decision-makers.

- As shared by Alexander Mackinlay , Qobra

While scripting for a product demo, one of the most important things to highlight in the product demo is what is in store for the end user in the form of a value proposition. Missing the focus on the key benefits and only explaining the features is the biggest demo mistake one does in a product demo. 

The script should be organized in this sequence 

• Pain points your solution solve
• How that problem is solved
• What is the value added to the customer? 

Here’s a sample script template

‍ “In our last meeting, you mentioned how vendor management is one of your biggest concerns at the moment. Our product just solves that! We have built an integrated solution that [ tell how it solves the problem].

 One of our customers has been able to streamline their vendor management by [incorporate the result they have achieved here] and you can do the same”

- As shared by Disha Thakkar, PMM Expert

The first thing to understand is that a software demo is just an opportunity to understand prospects better and show how your software solves their challenges.

The actual software and its functionality - things everyone wants to show is irrelevant. No one can really follow someone quickly jumping from screen to screen demonstrating features (that can't sell) and any questions come only from some past experience with other software.

When you carry on a conversation based on features, it's hard to sell. So here is a sales-oriented software demo scenario below. 

💡Note: You have to insist on more decision makers to be present on the very first demo because usually different people in business have very different ideas about their needs and you can win by catering for different needs.

1/ Ask questions and be inquisitive to understand what is the problem they want to solve.

2/ Ask what they see as a perfect solution

3/ Ask what software they are using currently (used in the past) to achieve that

4/ Ask what is not working or is annoying (chances are that your software does it as well, but at least you know what the person dislikes before showing proudly what your solution can do - you can annoy them that way too)

5/ Only then jump into screen sharing and this is where you have to be innovative and do a demo from the perspective of a solution this person is seeking. It's important to understand that whatever is cool about your software is only interesting from the perspective of solving their challenge and nothing else. Therefore showing features that they don't ask for is nice ... but is not a reason why they will buy. Why? Because your wonderful features often sound as "too good to be true".

6/ You have to show enough that they "buy" the idea and express their feeling that that's what they need. Do not proceed to discuss the pricing until you reach this point in the conversation.

7/ When there are no more questions they have and you answered them all, I recommend asking “if it's OK to talk about money now.”

After a positive response provide a clear, easy-to-follow pricing structure and ask how they wish to proceed. 

If you did 1-6 right at this point any objections are about price and it's hard to object because they just stated they are happy and interested. Then there are special techniques to handle price objections.

- As shared by  Assia Salikhova , Managing Director, Smarketing Lab Limited, author of "7 Keys to Successful Cold Calling" course.

Top 5 Tips to Keep in Mind While Creating a Software Demo Presentation

1. know who you’re presenting to.

Are you presenting to an employee (who's perhaps going to use your tool) or a decision-maker in the company? 

Research and do your homework to learn as much as possible about the person. 

What are their pain points? 

What kind of solution they're looking for? 

Knowing the finer details can help you stay prepared for all meeting scenarios. 

For example, if the person is reserved, you need to prompt them with questions to initiate a conversation. If you get to know the person will ask many questions, come prepared with answers and customer stories to back them up. If the person is a multitasker and attending the demo while working on the phone or laptop, grab their attention by making a bold statement or humor that can grab their attention. 

2. Prepare a Script and Practice

Always prepare a demo script, especially how you will deliver the humor, punch lines, or Twittable sound bites ( a short sentence or phrase in audio or video format that can be Twitted to give an essence of your message) that can grab the audience's attention. 

Once your script is ready, practice and rehearse until you're comfortable delivering the demo. You can practice in front of a peer or a family member. Or, if no one is available, record your demo speech and review the flow by hearing the recording. While you don't need to memorize the whole script, you should know in detail each of the points and be able to speak in a conversational tone. 

3. Support Your Claims with Use Cases

If you have solved a similar problem in the past, begin your demo with the same problem and how your product overcame that problem. Emphasize how the prospect can too achieve a similar outcome. Supporting your claims with a use case makes a strong case for you, and the prospect can better relate to your product. 

4. Customize Your Demo

Not all audiences are the same, so you need to customize your demo accordingly. For example, if you demo a CEO, your demo should be customized with relatable use cases. Highlight the features that will be most relevant to the prospect. 

5. Follow Up

Don't assume they will remember everything once the demo is done. A good practice is to follow up with a thank you note. Share a link to the automated demo so they can see it again internally, share relevant documents and brochures, and give them an actionable next step. 

Elevating Your Software Demo Presentation with Storylane

Storylane is an interactive product demo software that lets you create effective demo presentations. The platform has some advanced features like analytics, personalization tokens, unlimited sharing, auto update of the demo when there is a new release, integration with CRM and Slack and many more. 

Do you know that G2 has recently recognized Storylane as the Demo Automation category leader? Book a demo today to empower your sales teams to perform better.

What’s a Rich Text element?

The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.

"Previously, there was scope for error and we’ve gone from a process that could be time consuming and painful to a process that’s super quick."

—CHRIS LANCASTER, SUPPLY CHAIN PROJECT

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Blog Marketing How To End A Presentation & Leave A Lasting Impression

How To End A Presentation & Leave A Lasting Impression

Written by: Krystle Wong Aug 09, 2023

So you’ve got an exciting presentation ready to wow your audience and you’re left with the final brushstroke — how to end your presentation with a bang. 

Just as a captivating opening draws your audience in, creating a well-crafted presentation closing has the power to leave a profound and lasting impression that resonates long after the lights dim and the audience disperses.

In this article, I’ll walk you through the art of crafting an impactful conclusion that resonates with 10 effective techniques and ideas along with real-life examples to inspire your next presentation. Alternatively, you could always jump right into creating your slides by customizing our professionally designed presentation templates . They’re fully customizable and require no design experience at all! 

Click to jump ahead:

Why is it important to have an impactful ending for your presentation?

10 effective presentation closing techniques to leave a lasting impression, 7 things to put on a conclusion slide.

• 5 real-life exceptional examples of how to end a presentation

6 mistakes to avoid in concluding a presentation

Faqs on how to end a presentation, how to create a memorable presentation with venngage.

People tend to remember the beginning and end of a presentation more vividly than the middle, making the final moments your last chance to make a lasting impression. 

An ending that leaves a lasting impact doesn’t merely mark the end of a presentation; it opens doors to further exploration. A strong conclusion is vital because it:

• Leaves a lasting impression on the audience.
• Reinforces key points and takeaways.
• Motivates action and implementation of ideas.
• Creates an emotional connection with the audience.
• Fosters engagement, curiosity and reflection.

Just like the final scene of a movie, your presentation’s ending has the potential to linger in your audience’s minds long after they’ve left the room. From summarizing key points to engaging the audience in unexpected ways, make a lasting impression with these 10 ways to end a presentation:

1. The summary

Wrap up your entire presentation with a concise and impactful summary, recapping the key points and main takeaways. By doing so, you reinforce the essential aspects and ensure the audience leaves with a crystal-clear understanding of your core message.

2. The reverse story

Here’s a cool one: start with the end result and then surprise the audience with the journey that led you to where you are. Share the challenges you conquered and the lessons you learned, making it a memorable and unique conclusion that drives home your key takeaways.

Alternatively, customize one of our cool presentation templates to capture the attention of your audience and deliver your message in an engaging and memorable way

3. The metaphorical prop

For an added visual touch, bring a symbolic prop that represents your message. Explain its significance in relation to your content, leaving the audience with a tangible and unforgettable visual representation that reinforces your key concepts.

4. The audience engagement challenge

Get the audience involved by throwing them a challenge related to your informational presentation. Encourage active participation and promise to share the results later, fostering their involvement and motivating them to take action.

5. The memorable statistic showcase

Spice things up with a series of surprising or intriguing statistics, presented with attention-grabbing visual aids. Summarize your main points using these impactful stats to ensure the audience remembers and grasps the significance of your data, especially when delivering a business presentation or pitch deck presentation .

Transform your data-heavy presentations into engaging presentations using data visualization tools. Venngage’s chart and graph tools help you present information in a digestible and visually appealing manner. Infographics and diagrams can simplify complex concepts while images add a relatable dimension to your presentation. 

6. The interactive story creation

How about a collaborative story? Work with the audience to create an impromptu tale together. Let them contribute elements and build the story with you. Then, cleverly tie it back to your core message with a creative presentation conclusion.

7. The unexpected guest speaker

Introduce an unexpected guest who shares a unique perspective related to your presentation’s theme. If their story aligns with your message, it’ll surely amp up the audience’s interest and engagement.

8. The thought-provoking prompt

Leave your audience pondering with a thought-provoking question or prompt related to your topic. Encourage reflection and curiosity, sparking a desire to explore the subject further and dig deeper into your message.

9. The empowering call-to-action

Time to inspire action! Craft a powerful call to action that motivates the audience to make a difference. Provide practical steps and resources to support their involvement, empowering them to take part in something meaningful.

10. The heartfelt expression

End on a warm note by expressing genuine gratitude and appreciation for the audience’s time and attention. Acknowledge their presence and thank them sincerely, leaving a lasting impression of professionalism and warmth.

Not sure where to start? These 12 presentation software might come in handy for creating a good presentation that stands out. 

Remember, your closing slides for the presentation is your final opportunity to make a strong impact on your audience. However, the question remains — what exactly should be on the last slide of your presentation? Here are 7 conclusion slide examples to conclude with a high note:

1. Key takeaways

Highlight the main points or key takeaways from your presentation. This reinforces the essential information you want the audience to remember, ensuring they leave with a clear understanding of your message with a well summarized and simple presentation .

2. Closing statement

Craft a strong closing statement that summarizes the overall message of your presentation and leaves a positive final impression. This concluding remark should be impactful and memorable.

3. Call-to-action

Don’t forget to include a compelling call to action in your final message that motivates the audience to take specific steps after the presentation. Whether it’s signing up for a newsletter, trying a product or conducting further research, a clear call to action can encourage engagement.

4. Contact information

Provide your contact details, such as email address or social media handles. That way, the audience can easily reach out for further inquiries or discussions. Building connections with your audience enhances engagement and opens doors for future opportunities.

Use impactful visuals or graphics to deliver your presentation effectively and make the conclusion slide visually appealing. Engaging visuals can captivate the audience and help solidify your key points.

Visuals are powerful tools for retention. Use Venngage’s library of icons, images and charts to complement your text. You can easily upload and incorporate your own images or choose from Venngage’s library of stock photos to add depth and relevance to your visuals.

6. Next steps

Outline the recommended next steps for the audience to take after the presentation, guiding them on what actions to pursue. This can be a practical roadmap for implementing your ideas and recommendations.

7. Inspirational quote

To leave a lasting impression, consider including a powerful and relevant quote that resonates with the main message of your presentation. Thoughtful quotes can inspire and reinforce the significance of your key points.

Whether you’re giving an in-person or virtual presentation , a strong wrap-up can boost persuasiveness and ensure that your message resonates and motivates action effectively. Check out our gallery of professional presentation templates to get started.

5 real-life exceptional examples of how to end a presentation 

When we talk about crafting an exceptional closing for a presentation, I’m sure you’ll have a million questions — like how do you end a presentation, what do you say at the end of a presentation or even how to say thank you after a presentation. 

To get a better idea of how to end a presentation with style — let’s delve into five remarkable real-life examples that offer valuable insights into crafting a conclusion that truly seals the deal: 

1. Sheryl Sandberg 

In her TED Talk titled “Why We Have Too Few Women Leaders,” Sheryl Sandberg concluded with an impactful call to action, urging men and women to lean in and support gender equality in the workplace. This motivational ending inspired the audience to take action toward a more inclusive world.

2. Elon Musk

Elon Musk often concludes with his vision for the future and how his companies are working towards groundbreaking advancements. His passion and enthusiasm for pushing the boundaries of technology leave the audience inspired and eager to witness the future unfold.

3. Barack Obama

President Obama’s farewell address concluded with an emotional and heartfelt expression of gratitude to the American people. He thanked the audience for their support and encouraged them to stay engaged and uphold the values that define the nation.

4. Brené Brown 

In her TED Talk on vulnerability, Brené Brown ended with a powerful quote from Theodore Roosevelt: “It is not the critic who counts… The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena.” This quote reinforced her message about the importance of embracing vulnerability and taking risks in life.

5. Malala Yousafzai

In her Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech, Malala Yousafzai ended with a moving call to action for education and girls’ rights. She inspired the audience to stand up against injustice and to work towards a world where every child has access to education.

For more innovative presentation ideas , turn ordinary slides into captivating experiences with these 15 interactive presentation ideas that will leave your audience begging for more.

So, we talked about how a good presentation usually ends. As you approach the conclusion of your presentation, let’s go through some of the common pitfalls you should avoid that will undermine the impact of your closing:

1. Abrupt endings

To deliver persuasive presentations, don’t leave your audience hanging with an abrupt conclusion. Instead, ensure a smooth transition by providing a clear closing statement or summarizing the key points to leave a lasting impression.

2. New information

You may be wondering — can I introduce new information or ideas in the closing? The answer is no. Resist the urge to introduce new data or facts in the conclusion and stick to reinforcing the main content presented earlier. By introducing new content at the end, you risk overshadowing your main message.

3. Ending with a Q&A session

While Q&A sessions are valuable , don’t conclude your presentation with them. Opt for a strong closing statement or call-to-action instead, leaving the audience with a clear takeaway.

4. Overloading your final slide

Avoid cluttering your final slide with too much information or excessive visuals. Keep it clean, concise and impactful to reinforce your key messages effectively.

5. Forgetting the call-to-action

Most presentations fail to include a compelling call-to-action which can diminish the overall impact of your presentation. To deliver a persuasive presentation, encourage your audience to take specific steps after the talk, driving engagement and follow-through.

6. Ignoring the audience

Make your conclusion audience-centric by connecting with their needs and interests. Avoid making it solely about yourself or your achievements. Instead, focus on how your message benefits the audience.

What should be the last slide of a presentation?

The last slide of a presentation should be a conclusion slide, summarizing key takeaways, delivering a strong closing statement and possibly including a call to action.

How do I begin a presentation?

Grabbing the audience’s attention at the very beginning with a compelling opening such as a relevant story, surprising statistic or thought-provoking question. You can even create a game presentation to boost interactivity with your audience. Check out this blog for more ideas on how to start a presentation . 

How can I ensure a smooth transition from the body of the presentation to the closing? 

To ensure a smooth transition, summarize key points from the body, use transition phrases like “In conclusion,” and revisit the main message introduced at the beginning. Bridge the content discussed to the themes of the closing and consider adjusting tone and pace to signal the transition.

How long should the conclusion of a presentation be?

The conclusion of a presentation should typically be around 5-10% of the total presentation time, keeping it concise and impactful.

Should you say thank you at the end of a presentation?

Yes, saying thank you at the end of a PowerPoint presentation is a courteous way to show appreciation for the audience’s time and attention.

Should I use presentation slides in the concluding part of my talk? 

Yes, using presentation slides in the concluding part of your talk can be effective. Use concise slides to summarize key takeaways, reinforce your main points and deliver a strong closing statement. A final presentation slide can enhance the impact of your conclusion and help the audience remember your message.

Should I include a Q&A session at the end of the presentation?

Avoid Q&A sessions in certain situations to ensure a well-structured and impactful conclusion. It helps prevent potential time constraints and disruptions to your carefully crafted ending, ensuring your core message remains the focus without the risk of unanswered or off-topic questions diluting the presentation’s impact.

Is it appropriate to use humor in the closing of a presentation?

Using humor in the closing of a presentation can be appropriate if it aligns with your content and audience as it can leave a positive and memorable impression. However, it’s essential to use humor carefully and avoid inappropriate or offensive jokes.

How do I manage nervousness during the closing of a presentation?

To manage nervousness during the closing, focus on your key points and the main message you want to convey. Take deep breaths to calm your nerves, maintain eye contact and remind yourself that you’re sharing valuable insights to enhance your presentation skills.

Creating a memorable presentation is a blend of engaging content and visually captivating design. With Venngage, you can transform your ideas into a dynamic and unforgettable presentation in just 5 easy steps: 

• Choose a template from Venngage’s library: Pick a visually appealing template that fits your presentation’s theme and audience, making it easy to get started with a professional look.
• Craft a compelling story or outline: Organize your content into a clear and coherent narrative or outline the key points to engage your audience and make the information easy to follow.
• Customize design and visuals: Tailor the template with your brand colors, fonts and captivating visuals like images and icons, enhancing your presentation’s visual appeal and uniqueness. You can also use an eye-catching presentation background to elevate your visual content. 
• Incorporate impactful quotes or inspiring elements: Include powerful quotes or elements that resonate with your message, evoking emotions and leaving a lasting impression on your audience members
• Utilize data visualization for clarity: Present data and statistics effectively with Venngage’s charts, graphs and infographics, simplifying complex information for better comprehension.

Additionally, Venngage’s real-time collaboration tools allow you to seamlessly collaborate with team members to elevate your presentation creation process to a whole new level. Use comments and annotations to provide feedback on each other’s work and refine ideas as a group, ensuring a comprehensive and well-rounded presentation.

Well, there you have it—the secrets of how to conclude a presentation. From summarizing your key message to delivering a compelling call to action, you’re now armed with a toolkit of techniques that’ll leave your audience in awe.

Now go ahead, wrap it up like a pro and leave that lasting impression that sets you apart as a presenter who knows how to captivate, inspire and truly make a mark.

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• By Illiya Vjestica
• - January 23, 2023

10 Powerful Examples of How to End a Presentation

Here are 10 powerful examples of how to end a presentation that does not end with a thank you slide.

How many presentations have you seen that end with “Thank you for listening” or “Any questions?” I bet it’s a lot…

“Thank you for listening.” is the most common example. Unfortunately, when it comes to closing out your slides ending with “thank you” is the norm. We can create a better presentation ending by following these simple examples.

The two most essential slides of your deck are the ending and intro. An excellent presentation ending is critical to helping the audience to the next step or following a specific call to action.

There are many ways you can increase your presentation retention rate . The most critical steps are having a solid call to action at the end of your presentation and a powerful hook that draws your audience in.

What Action do You Want Your Audience to Take?

Before designing your presentation, start with this question – what message or action will you leave your audience with?

Are you looking to persuade, inspire, entertain or inform your audience? You can choose one or multiple words to describe the intent of your presentation.

Think about the action words that best describe your presentation ending – what do you want them to do? Inspire, book, learn, understand, engage, donate, buy, book or schedule. These are a few examples.

If the goal of your presentation is to inspire, why not end with a powerful and inspiring quote ? Let words of wisdom be the spark that ignites an action within your audience.

Here are three ways to end your presentation:

• Call to Action – getting the audience to take a specific action or next step, for example, booking a call, signing up for an event or donating to your cause.
• Persuade – persuading your audience to think differently, try something new, undertake a challenge or join your movement or community.
• Summarise – A summary of the key points and information you want the audience to remember. If you decide to summarise your talk at the end, keep it to no more than three main points.

10 Examples of How to End a Presentation

1. Asking your audience to take action or make a pledge.

Here were asking the audience to take action by using the wording “take action” in our copy. This call to action is a pledge to donate. A clear message like this can be helpful for charities and non-profits looking to raise funding for their campaign or cause.

2. Encourage your audience to take a specific action, e.g. joining your cause or community

Here was are asking the audience to join our community and help solve a problem by becoming part of the solution. It’s a simple call to action. You can pass the touch to your audience and ask them to take the next lead.

3. Highlight the critical points for your audience to remember.

Rember, to summarise your presentation into no more than three key points. This is important because the human brain struggles to remember more than three pieces of information simultaneously. We call this the “Rule of Three”.

4. If you are trying to get more leads or sales end with a call to action to book a demo or schedule a call.

Can you inspire your audience to sign up for a demo or trial of your product? Structure your talk to lead your prospect through a journey of the results you generate for other clients. At the end of your deck, finish with a specific call to action, such as “Want similar results to X?”

Make sure you design a button, or graphic your prospect can click on when you send them the PDF version of the slides.

5. Challenge your audience to think differently or take action, e.g. what impact could they make?

6. Give your audience actions to help share your message.

7. Promote your upcoming events or workshops

8. Asking your audience to become a volunteer.

9. Direct your audience to learn more about your website.

10. If you are a book author, encourage your audience to engage with your book.

6 Questions to Generate an Ending for Your Presentation

You’ve told an engaging story, but why end your presentation without leaving your audience a clear message or call to action?

Here are six great questions you can ask yourself to generate an ending for your presentation or keynote talk.

• What impression would you want to leave your audience with?
• What is the big idea you want to leave them with?
• What action should they take next?
• What key point should you remember 72 hours after your presentation?
• What do you want them to feel?
• What is the key takeaway for them to understand?

What to Say After Ending a Presentation?

When you get to the end of a book, you don’t see the author say, “thank you for reading my last chapter.” Of course, there is no harm in thanking the audience after your presentation ends, but don’t make that the last words you speak.

Think of the ending of the presentation as the final chapter of an epic novel. It’s your chance to leave a lasting impression on the audience. Close with an impactful ending and leave them feeling empowered, invigorated and engaged.

• Leave a lasting impression.
• Think of it as the last chapter of a book.
• Conclude with a thought or question.
• Leave the audience with a specific action or next step.

How to End a Presentation with Style?

There are many great ways you can end your presentation with style. Are you ready to drop the mic?

Ensure your closing slide is punchy, has a clear headline, or uses a thought-provoking image.

Think about colours. You want to capture the audience’s attention before closing the presentation. Make sure the fonts you choose are clear and easy to read.

Do you need to consider adding a link? If you add links to your social media accounts, use icons and buttons to make them easy to see. Add a link to each button or icon. By doing this, if you send the PDF slides to people, they can follow the links to your various accounts.

What Should you Remember?

💡 If you take one thing away from this post, it’s to lose the traditional ending slides. Let’s move on from the “Thank you for your attention.” or “Any questions.” slides.

These don’t help you or the audience. Respect them and think about what they should do next. You may be interested to learn 3 Tactics to Free Your Presentation Style to help you connect to your audience.

Illiya Vjestica

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7 Powerful Ways To End a Presentation

by Janice Tomich

• Presentation Planning & Public Speaking Skills

Have you ever attended a presentation or speech and didn’t know when it was over? Maybe you were even unsure if it was time to clap or get up and leave?

Your audience not knowing when a presentation has finished is a clear sign that you need to work on your conclusion. If you ending isn’t clear the closing statements sputter. Don’t let your words fizzle out.

People attend your presentation or speech to learn from you. Your passion for what you’ll be sharing started long ago. Keep that passion clear from your personal introduction right through your conclusion if you want the impact of your words to continue well past the time you step off the stage.

It’s crucial you get both the open and close of your speech right.

The conclusion is especially pivotal, because if you’ve thoughtfully structured your presentation at the end you will influence your audience to be inspired to do what you had planned with the information you’ve shared.

There are many different ways to close a presentation effectively.

If you’re lost and unsure about how to make your presentation compelling, I can help.

I’ll start with explaining 7 powerful ways I’ve seen my public speaking coaching clients end their speeches, and then give you my advice about two common ways to close a presentation which you should avoid.

Table of Contents

7 Techniques for Ending Your Presentation Powerfully

1. end with a overt call to action.

The most overt type of close is the Call To Action or CTA. A call to action is a clear, direct statement to your audience of what you want them to do next. Use this type of presentation conclusion when you want to be perfectly clear about your message.

This closing technique transparently encourages your audience to do something as concrete as “buy my book” or “sign my petition” or “take on a challenge.”

I once had the privilege of seeing Dr Hans Rosling deliver a TED Talk . He is an excellent presenter and a master of the close. Based on his research, he clearly challenges his audience to take his data to make decisions about resources needed for population growth. The talk is worth watching if you’re planning out a closing statement, because it’s a brilliant example of a strong close.

2. End with a a Soft and Subtle Call To Action

Have you ever left a presentation inspired to do something differently, even if you were not specifically directed to take action? The closing technique you witnessed was probably a subtler version of a CTA.

For a masterful example of this closing technique, watch the end of Tim Urban’s TED Talk on procrastination. Notice that he never specifically tells you to take action – to stop procrastinating. Instead, he gets you onboard in a soft way, slowly building up his argument via a number of examples of his own experience with procrastination.

Then, close to the end, he shows a visual which leaves you reassessing your life and what you will do with the remainder of it.

Tim’s masterful presentation conclusion has prompted many people to take action and change their habits, but it’s subtle and leaves you thinking as if the conclusions you come to are you own idea, not his.

3. Use a Quote to End Your Presentation

Using a quote for your final words can be an effective way to end your presentation. Choose your quote carefully, however—the quote needs to align with your message and clearly communicate your key point. Never use an obscure or confusing quotation. Don’t make your audience work too hard to understand the relationship between the quote on your final slide and your overall message.

One of the most touching quotes I heard used to conclude an inspirational speech was the last lines of the Mary Oliver poem “Summer’s Day”: “Tell me, what is it you will do – With your one wild and precious life?”

It kept me thinking about the preciousness of the days, how I had permission to push limits, and what those limits might be.

4. Finish Your Presentation By Closing The Loop

Create intrigue with a story which takes your audience on a journey. Using storytelling in business presentations or in a speech, threading it throughout, is not only a good way to grab the audience’s attention and enhance engagement. It’s also a powerful way to come to a conclusion when you finish your story.

Dr. Amy Cuddy’s TED Talk uses the “close the loop” technique brilliantly. She begins her presentation telling us about an accident she had that impacted her ability to thrive in university. She worked hard to make progress. Under the mentorship of a professor she thrived.

Dr. Cuddy goes on to talk about her research into how we can build confidence through body language techniques. She winds her talk up by speaking about a student of hers that she mentored through a lack of confidence…and very craftily closes the loop.

5. End Your Speech Using the Rule of Three

A communication technique called the Rule of Three is a powerful way to end your speech. Using this technique to end your presentation will make your key message stick.

An example of the Rule of Three is this Winston Churchill quote, “This is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning”.

Using three concepts triggers your brain to recognize a pattern, which humans are wired to do. Pattern recognition is how we make sense of things, it’s how we connect the dots and make meaning from the message.

Use the Rule of Three if you want your closing remarks to be remembered long after your audience leaves their seats.

​​​​Sucheta Misra Associate VP Inclusion & Diversity and Social Impact Leader

6. Finish with a Thought Provoking Question

There is value in having your audience walk away thinking about the questions you asked in your conclusion—and their personal responses to them. We humans are natural problem solvers. A question is a sticky way to create a memorable ending.

In his TED Talk, What Baby Boomers Can Learn From Millennials & Vice-Versa , Chip Conley provides food for thought about how we can all be contributors in the workplace by creating generational bridges. He asks, “Personally, who can you reach out to to create a mutual mentorship relationship? And organizationally, how can you create the conditions to foster an intergenerational flow of wisdom?” It’s not a rhetorical question, it’s a call to action. Chip finishes his presentation by telling us that bridges are the true sharing economy.

7. Deliver a Summary to Close Your Presentation

Delivering a summary of your core message can be an effective way to conclude, but be careful. Using a summary to finish your presentation sometimes risks losing your audience’s attention. If you name the main message(s) by rote, as if you’re rattling off a series of bullet points, the conclusion is likely to flop. Instead, use your summary slide to close your speech inspirationally, reviewing the key message and critically “the why.” Without the why, your summary will be forgotten in minutes.

2 Things to Avoid in Your Conclusion

Preparing, writing, and delivering a powerful speech is difficult, and some speakers are unprepared when they approach their closing remarks. Here are two things to avoid:

1. Running Out of Time

A poorly thought out and only minimally practiced presentation usually results in you having to cram your final remarks into the last few minutes of your allotted time. Your audience won’t be able to digest your final concepts if your words come at double-speed.

When you rush to the finish line not only will you feel stressed, your audience will too. This can seriously mar your reputation as a polished and professional public speaker.

2. Finish with a Question and Answer Session

You’re the speaker. You’ve been invited to take the stage and the audience is there to hear your ideas. The impact of too many otherwise excellent presentations are dulled in the last minutes, when a presenter opens the floor to questions, which are sometimes commandeered by someone in the room whose motivations might not align with your own. Your audience will remember your response to the last question. End with a question and answer session and you’ve essentially let someone else write your conclusion for you.

Question and answer sections aren’t a bad thing, but don’t end with them. Finish up your presentation by having all eyes on you. Close on your own terms.

The final (and best) tip I can give you is no matter the closing technique you choose to end your presentation or keynote address , is to practice it until it is firmly embedded into your memory. You want to know it inside out (and upside down) with absolute full confidence so you won’t have to scramble to come to a full stop.

You don’t have to prepare a presentation alone. If you’re feeling stuck or uninspired by your presentation’s conclusion, I invite you to book a 1-hour presentation strategy session . I’ll help you create a powerful ending that will have your audience leaving inspired.

If you’d like help with the entire presentation, I do that too. We can work together, one on one, to develop and create your next presentation or speech so you can deliver it with confidence and ease -> Prepare For Your Upcoming Presentation, Speech, or Talk .

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Different Ways to End a Presentation or Speech

November 6, 2017 - Dom Barnard

The beginning and ending of your presentation are the most important. The  beginning  is where you grab the audience’s attention and ensure they listen to the rest of your speech. The conclusion gives you a chance to leave a lasting impression that listeners take away with them.

Studies show  that when people are tasked with recalling information, they “best performance at the beginning and end”. It’s therefore essential you leave an impact with your closing statement. A strong ending motivates, empowers and encourages people to take action.

The power of three

The rule of three is a simple yet powerful method of communication and we use it often in both written and verbal communication. Using information in patterns of three makes it  more memorable  for the audience.

Examples of the power of three being used:

• This is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning – Winston Churchill
• Blood, sweat and tears – General Patton
• I came, I saw, I conquered – Julius Caesar

A compelling story

Ending your presentation on a short story, especially if that story is personal or illustrates how the content presented affects others is the best way to conclude.

If you want to talk about a customer experience or successful case study, think about how you can turn it into a meaningful story which the audience will remember and even relate to. Creating empathy with your audience and tying the story back to points made throughout the presentation ensures your presentation will be well received by the audience.

A surprising fact

A surprising fact has the power to re-engage the audience’s attention, which is most likely to wane by the end of a presentation. Facts with  statistical numbers  in them work well – you can easily search online for facts related to your speech topic. Just make use you remember the source for the fact in case you are questioned about it.

A running clock

Marketing and advertising executive Dietmar Dahmen ends his Create Your Own Change talk with a running clock to accompany his last statement. “Users rule,” he says, “so stop waiting and start doing. And you have to do that now because time is running out.”

If you’re delivering a time-sensitive message, where you want to urge your listeners to move quickly, you can have a background slide with a  running timer  to add emphasis to your last statement.

Acknowledging people or companies

There are times when it’s appropriate to thank people publicly for helping you – such as

• Presenting a research paper and want to thank people involved in the project
• Presenting data or information obtained from a company or a person
• When someone helped you build the presentation if it’s a particularly complex one

You can even use the  PowerPoint credits  feature for additional ‘wow’ factor.

A short, memorable sentence

A sound bite is an attention magnet. It cuts to the core of your central message and is one of the most memorable takeaways for today’s  Twitter-sized  attention spans. Consider Steve Jobs’ famous last line at his commencement address at Stanford University: “Stay hungry, stay foolish.”

Think about how you can distil your message down to a crisp, memorable statement. Does it represent your authentic voice? Does it accurately condense what your core message is about? Listeners, especially business audiences, have a radar that quickly spots an effort to impress rather than to genuinely communicate an important message.

An interesting quote

A relatively easy way to end your speech is by using a quote. For this to be effective, however, the quote needs to be one that has not been heard so often that it has become cliché.

To access fresh quotes, consider searching current personalities rather than historical figures. For example, a quote on failing from J.K. Rowling: “It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all – in which case, you fail by default.”

You need to figure out what resonates with your audience, and choose a quote that fits the presentation theme. If you’re up to it, you can round off the quote with your own thoughts as well.

A visual image

Make use of this power by ending your presentation with a riveting visual that ties to your take-home message. Leave this slide on when you finish your presentation to give the audience something to look at and think about for the next few minutes.

Use a summary slide instead of a ‘thank you’ slide

‘Thank You’ slides don’t really help the audience. You should be verbally saying ‘Thank you’, with a smile and with positive eye contact, putting it on a slide removes the sentiment.

Instead of a ‘Thank You’ slide, you can use a  summary slide  showing all the key points you have made along with your call to action. It can also show your name and contact details.

This slide is the only slide you use that can contain a lot of text, use bullet points to separate the text. Having all this information visible during the Q&A session will also help the audience think of questions to ask you. They may also choose to take photos of this slide with their phone to take home as a summary of your talk and to have your contact details.

Repeat something from the opening

Closing a presentation with a look back at the opening message is a popular technique. It’s a great way to round off your message, whilst simultaneously summing up the entire speech and creating a feeling of familiarity for the audience. Comedians do this well when they tie an earlier joke to a later one.

Doing this will signal to the audience that you are coming to the end of your talk. It completes the circle – you end up back where you started.

There are a few ways to approach this technique:

• Set up a question at the beginning of your speech and use your ending to answer it
• Finish a story you started, using the anecdote to demonstrate your message
• Close with the title of the presentation – this works best with a provocative, memorable title

Link the main points to the key message

At the beginning of your talk, it’s important to map out the main ideas you will talk about. An audience that doesn’t know the stages of the journey you are about to take them on will be less at ease than one that knows what lies ahead. At the end of your talk, take them back over what you’ve spoken about but don’t just list the different ideas you developed, show how they are related and how they support your main argument.

Finish with enthusiasm

It’s only natural that you’ll feel tired when you get to the end of your talk. The adrenaline that was racing through your body at the beginning has now worn off.

It’s crucial that the audience feels that you are enthusiastic and open for questions. If you’re not enthusiastic about the presentation, why should the audience be?

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Don’t end with audience questions

When the  Q&A session  is over, stand up, get their attention and close the presentation. In your closing give your main argument again, your call to action and deal with any doubts or criticisms that out in the Q&A.

A closing is more or less a condensed version of your conclusions and an improvised summary of the Q&A. It’s important that the audience goes home remembering the key points of the speech, not with a memory of a Q&A that may or may not have gone well or may have been dominated by someone other than you.

If possible, try and take questions throughout your presentation so they remain pertinent to the content.

Getting rid of the “questions?” slide

To start, let’s talk about what you shouldn’t do. You shouldn’t end a presentation with a slide that asks “Questions?” Everyone does and there is nothing memorable about this approach.

Ideally, you should take questions throughout the presentation so that the question asked and the answer given is relevant to the content presented. If you choose to take questions at the end of your presentation, end instead with a strong image that relates to your presentation’s content.

Worried about no audience questions?

If you’re afraid of not getting any questions, then you can arrange for a friend in the audience to ask one. The ‘plant’ is a good way to get questions started if you fear silence.

Chances are that people do want to ask questions, but no one wants to be the first to ask a question. If you don’t have a ‘plant’, you might need to get the ball rolling yourself. A good way to do this is for you to ask am open question to the audience. Ask the most confident looking person in the room for their opinion, or get the audience to discuss the question with the person sitting beside them.

A cartoon or animation

In his TED talk on  The Paradox of Choice  , Barry Schwartz ends his presentation with a cartoon of a fishbowl with the caption, “You can be anything you want to be – no limits.” He says, “If you shatter the fishbowl, so that everything is possible, you don’t have freedom, you have paralysis… Everybody needs a fishbowl”. This is a brilliant ending that combines visuals, humour and a metaphor. Consider ending your presentation with a relevant cartoon to make your message memorable.

Ask a rhetoric question

So, for example, if you’re finishing up a talk on the future of engineering, you might say, “I’d like to end by asking you the future of manufacturing, will it be completely taken over by robots in the next 30 years?”

The minute you  ask a question  , listeners are generally drawn into thinking about an answer. It’s even more engaging when the question is provocative, or when it touches potentially sensitive areas of our lives

Thank the audience

The simplest way to end a speech, after you’ve finished delivering the content, is to say, “thank you.” That has the benefit of being understood by everyone.

It’s the great way for anyone to signal to the audience that it’s time to applaud and then head home.

Call your audience to action and make it clear

It’s not enough to assume your message will inspire people to take action. You need to actually tell them to take action. Your call to action should be clear and specific. Your audience should be left with no doubt about what it is you’re asking.

Use the last few minutes of the presentation to reinforce the call to action you seek. Examples of strong calls to actions include:

• Retain 25% more employees with our personal development solution
• Save your business 150% by using this framework
• Donate today to save millions around the world

Make it clear that you’ve finished

Nothing is more uncomfortable than the silence of an audience working out if you’ve finished or not.

Your closing words should make it very clear that it’s the end of the presentation. The audience should be able to read this immediately, and respond. As we mentioned previously, saying “thank you” is a good way to finish.

If the applause isn’t forthcoming, stand confidently and wait. Don’t fidget and certainly don’t eke out a half-hearted, ‘And that just about covers it. Thank you’.

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Your Guide to Preparing a Great Software Demo Presentation

We believe congratulations are in order!

If the rumors are to be believed, word on the street is that you’ve successfully scheduled the demo . 

Your prospects have shown great interest in your SaaS offering and are looking forward with excitement to getting to know it better during the software demo . 

All that’s left for you to do is blow them away with a demo presentation that’s more riveting and engaging than a Martin Scorcese film.

Goodfellas ? Pfft. If you thought that was good it’s because you haven’t yet seen this demo.

What is a software demo?

5 key elements every good software demo presentation must include.

• Personalization
• Interactivity
• Engaging content
• Strong CTAs

Things to do when preparing for a software demo

• Get to know your audience
• Create a memorable experience

3 common ways software demos can go wrong

• Feature dumping
• Talking at people, not to them
• Sticking to the script

Create software demos your prospects will absolutely love

A live software demo is a tool that sales teams use to showcase a SaaS product to their buyers. 

Let’s say you walked into a store to buy a pair of pants. Would you let the salesperson describe the pants to you and then buy them without seeing them? We didn’t think so.

So software customers also need a way to see the product, understand how it works, and check out its features and benefits before they decide to buy it. That’s where the software demo comes in.

The software sales demo acts as a way for the marketing and sales teams to give your buyers a chance to experience your product. While it is most commonly used during the sales demo phase of the buyer journey, an interactive software demo created with a tool like Walnut allows you to send prospects links for them to engage with on their own at any point throughout the sales experience.

Learning to create an interactive product demo is the easy part, especially on a platform like Walnut. The harder part is making the demo amazing.

Do you want to create a software demo that will leave your customers bored and confused?

The best way to create a boring software demo presentation is by using a slide deck or a video. You should also be as generic as possible and spend your time focusing on how cool your product’s features are. This is bound to leave your prospects with a bad taste in their mouth and inexplicably sleepy.

But if you want to knock the socks right off of your prospects, we recommend making sure your demo includes the following 5 elements:

1. Personalization

The first thing you should ask yourself when creating your software demo presentation is:

Who is the prospect and what do they need?  

Focus on the solutions your product can provide to match their specific needs. Adding small personal touches to the product demo , like the prospect’s name and company logo, can also let them understand that this demo was made with them in mind. 

When you create your demo presentation for your prospect, you need to make sure it tells a story. Ask yourself:

Why is the prospect coming to this software demo?

Create an interactive sales experience that will leave the prospects feeling like they understand your product flow, the value it brings, and how it can easily integrate with their current workflow. They aren’t there to be blown away by the functionality of your product. They are there because they want to solve a pain.

3. Interactivity

Your prospects don’t want a show. Ask yourself:

Would you buy anything without trying it out yourself first?

Give your audience the link to their personalized software demo and let them try it by themselves. Keep them engaged by having them click through the product so that they can see how it works and the value it can bring them.

4. Engaging content

Don’t be boring. That’s it. That’s the post.

Ok, that’s not the whole post. When creating content for your demo and working on your demo script , ask yourself:

How can I keep the prospect engaged?

Use GIFs, humor, sales memes , rich text, movie references, sports references, or whatever the prospect is interested in to spice up this demo. Be professional but also be yourself and build a genuine connection with your audience.

5. Strong CTAs

The goal of a good software demo is a closed deal. So ask yourself:

What’s the next step that you’d like the prospect to make?

Include clear CTAs throughout your software demo so your audience knows what’s the next step in the process.

When you’re getting ready for your demo, there are two things you should make sure to do.

1. Get to know your audience

The first thing you need to make sure you have down when preparing for your software demo is understanding who you will be speaking to.

Learn their names.

Don’t underestimate how effective it is to engage your audience by calling them by their first names. 

Before you get on that call, make sure you know who you’ll be speaking to. Ask your champion exactly who will be attending the meeting so that you can know in advance and prepare.

Write down each of their names and have it by you when the presentation starts if that’ll help or take a few minutes to read their resume on LinkedIn before the meeting. This way, you can speak more directly to each member of your audience.

Learn their roles.

Next, learn the positions they hold within their company. 

If a feature you are showcasing is relevant to a specific role, you’ll be able to say, “Hey Salvador. You may be interested in this. By clicking here you can solve all of your problems so that you can finally curb that horrible drinking habit.” 

…or something like that.

Learn their needs.

Each team member has specific pains that they want to resolve. Sometimes they may not know that there could be a better way.

It’s your job to make sure that you explain to them how your product can provide value to them as a team and to each of them individually. You can only do this by having an extremely firm understanding of their aims and objectives.

2. Create a memorable experience

Make sure the demo experience is not boring. 

Remember, we are competing with Martin Scorcese over here. 

Create an interactive product demo that prospects can click through on their own or show teammates after the call. 

But you can also make your demo engaging by preparing questions to ask your prospects. Take the beginning of the demo to create a conversation to make sure you don’t spend the next chunk of time in a monologue. After all, nobody wants to be spoken at. 

As much as possible, try to create a human and personal connection. By creating real relationships you’ll make sure your prospects remember you and respect your advice.

And, whatever you do, don’t be boring!

When you’re this close to closing a deal, every interaction is crucial. So when it comes to the software demo, you need to make sure you’re not making any of the classic errors.

Here are a few of the sales demo mistakes that many sales reps find themselves making.

1. Feature dumping

A friendly reminder that PROSPECTS DON’T WANT TO HEAR ABOUT ALL YOUR PRODUCT’S FEATURES.

Sorry for yelling. But we feel passionate about this. 

Stop telling them about what the feature can do and start telling them how that feature can help them. 

Talk about value, not about functionality.

2. Talking at people, not to them

You want to make sure your prospects are engaged. Do you know how to make sure they are bored out of their minds? Go on a monologue about your product while flipping through slides. If they stay awake during the whole call it’ll be a miracle.

Instead, use interactive sales demos and engage your audience. Speak to them by name. If you’re demoing over Zoom, stop sharing your screen for key moments so that they can see your face in big. Put questions in the chat so you can gauge their interest in specific features.

3. Sticking to the script

Have you ever seen the Saturday Night Live bit of Jacob, the bar mitzvah boy? The gist of the gag is that Seth Myers asks him questions but all he does is continue with his prepared speech.

Here’s a clip:

We know that you created a demo agenda and a demo script and want to stick to it. But you also need to respond to the questions and concerns that are being asked presently. 

If you want to take your software demo presentations up a notch and win more deals, you need to make sure you are showcasing your product in the best way possible.

Start creating interactive demos that prospects can engage with themselves and give them the chance to understand your product thoroughly. Better demos will lead to more engagement, which in turn will lead to more sales.

So what are you waiting for? Book a meeting with us now by clicking that “Get Started” button on the top of the screen.

Create demos your prospects will love today.

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How to make a great presentation

Stressed about an upcoming presentation? These talks are full of helpful tips on how to get up in front of an audience and make a lasting impression.

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Demo Presentation Template

Captivate your audience by delivering a professional product demonstration. Show customers or investors how your product or service will benefit them.

Trusted by 65M+ users and leading companies

About the Demo Presentation Template  

This Demo Presentation Template helps you get your flow of ideas across easily and professionally. With this template, you can show potential and existing customers what your product or service can do.

When you have a visual presentation showing how your product works, customers can better understand how it solves their pain points. Use a demo presentation to enhance your sales presentation and stimulate interest in your product.

What’s a demo presentation?

A demo presentation is a meeting between your business and a client (or potential client) in which you showcase and present a product or service. It typically includes a full run-down of the product’s key selling points, uses, target audience , and other relevant features. 

The aim of a product demo is to demonstrate your product’s selling power and hopefully win over the client in question with a deal. It’s all about showing your product in the best possible light and answering any questions the client may have. 

An amazing demo presentation should inform, enlighten, and excite your client. 

While it’s important to be vocal about your product’s highlights and potential, a big part of any product demonstration should include a fair degree of listening. The essence of a demo presentation is to bring life to your business’ product or service and inspire clients to take action. 

What should a demo presentation include?

Miro is the perfect online presentation creator . When putting together a demo presentation, the following several boxes need to be ticked: 

Excellent product/services knowledge

If you don’t know your product inside and out, clients will be able to tell, and they’ll be put off as a result. Make sure to conduct a thorough analysis of your product well before the presentation starts. You need to be able to clearly communicate the product’s attributes and confidently answer any questions.

Real-life examples and scenarios

Clients will gain a much stronger impression of your product if they feel they can apply it to their own lives or businesses. Providing real-life examples of how they can benefit from your product is a crucial aspect of any demo or prototype presentation.

Effective visual aids

Make it even easier for clients to fall in love with your product by providing effective, well-designed visual aids. From infographics and images to demo videos, visual aids can make your presentation more impactful and increase the client’s likelihood of conversion. 

When to use a demo presentation

A demo presentation is helpful for connecting with clients. Just about every product and service can benefit from a strong presentation, such as: 

A sprint demo presentation. Within the Scrum framework , a demo presentation comes at the end of a sprint. Sprint demos are needed to showcase progress and project status to stakeholders who are invested in the outcome.

An app demo presentation. This type of presentation is especially useful if you’re trying to find investors for the development of an app. It sheds light on the potential app’s revenue and social impact.

A prototype presentation. A prototype presentation is also useful for gaining support from investors for a still-developing product. By presenting a prototype, you can summarize the problems your product is trying to solve and improve investors’ overall understanding of your product.

How to use the Demo Presentation Template  

If you’ve never created a demo presentation before, using a template can be tremendously helpful. Follow these simple instructions to make the most out of Miro’s Demo Presentation Template: 

Step 1: Fill in your template

You’ll need to fill in your template with information for each slide. You might include the following information in your slide deck:

the product’s identity

the target market

the revenue potential

key selling points 

potential risks along the way 

Step 2: Edit and customize 

Whether you’re creating an app demo or prototype presentation, this customizable template can suit your needs. Edit, refine, and polish the order, layout, visuals, and structure of your Demo Presentation Template to suit your business and what it offers. 

Step 3: Brainstorm ideas and collaborate

With Miro’s presentation mode , you can preview your entire presentation as a team. With an easy-to-navigate structure and flexible framework, your demo presentation plan can evolve and be improved with ease. When you’re ready for your final presentation, simply select this mode and use the forward and back arrows to move smoothly through your presentation.

Tips for a great demo presentation

Whether you’re delivering a sprint demo presentation, an app demo presentation, or a prototype presentation, here are a few helpful tips to bear in mind: 

Know your product well. Uncertainty and lack of knowledge aren’t going to win over clients. You want to demonstrate confidence, diligence, and professionalism. Make sure to do your research well and have answers prepped for questions you might be asked.

Have a clear intro, middle, and conclusion. Using a storyteller structure in your presentation can make it more digestible to clients. Use visuals and clear communication to break down your product’s features into distinctive, cohesive sections.

Listen well. Even though this presentation is about your product, it’s important to leave some room for others to speak. This will make the presentation more conversational and allow clients to flesh out your product from their perspectives.

Don’t be distracted. When delivering a professional demo presentation, you want to emulate reliability, uniformity, and expertise. Maintain strong eye contact and stay focused on the presentation’s goals. Make sure your connection is strong, especially if the presentation is virtual .

How do you start a demo presentation?

Your demo presentation should start with a brief description of its agenda. Then, dive into your intro, work your way into the main points, and end with a conclusion or call to action. An open Q&A session can be held at the end.

How do you prepare for a demo?

Prepare for your demo with lots of research on your product/service and the clients you will be presenting it to. The more you know about these things, the more influential your presentation will be.

What makes a good demo presentation?

An effective demo presentation should include relevant and accurate information about your product. The presenter should have great communication skills and use strong visual aids. Your demo presentation should have a clear structure and logical flow — which you can get using this Demo Presentation Template.

Get started with this template right now.

QBR Presentation Template

Works best for:.

Presentations, Meetings

Use Miro’s QBR Presentation Template to give clients an overview of their business performance and show where you can add more value. Review your successes over the past 90 days and create a plan of action for the next quarter.

Training Presentation Template

Presentations, Education

Creating an engaging training presentation that effectively helps your employees level up is no easy feat. With the Training Presentation Template, you can slash presentation development time and spend more energy on the transformative elements of your training. Plus, it’s so easy to collaborate with other training staff when you develop your training slides in Miro.

Proposal Template

Presentations, Strategic Planning

Create the perfect proposal presentation for your prospects with the Business Proposal Presentation Template. Plan, structure, and deliver all the key information in a professional and visually-appealing presentation.

Keynote Presentation Template

Presentations, Workshops

Designed to create enthusiasm and build knowledge about a specific topic, keynote presentations are more powerful than most people think. With them, you get to inspire and unify an audience with a common purpose. We give you an easy way to do this — just use our Keynote Presentation Template to create your own captivating presentation.

UX Presentation Template

Presentations, UX Design

Create a stunning UX presentation with Miro’s memorable slide deck. Customize your slide deck to display your UX research in the perfect format for your audience. Add charts, images, and visuals to present your findings.

Change Management Presentation Template

Employee resistance to change can block any positive initiative. You won’t have to struggle with it if you clearly communicate what upcoming changes mean and how they’ll benefit your company in the long run. Use our Change Management Presentation Template to outline your implementation strategy and spark enthusiasm among employees.

How to End a Video Presentation – Seamlessly!

Posted by Belinda Huckle  |  On May 25, 2021  |  In Presentation Training, Tips & Advice

In this Article...quick links

Before we start let’s quickly look at how NOT to end a video presentation

So how should we end a video presentation, follow us on social media for more great presentation tips:.

Bringing up your final slide that says ‘The End’, or just saying ‘Thank you!’ or ‘Any questions?’ are all very tempting ways to end an online meeting, but they’re not likely to leave an audience energised or inspired. So here’s some tips on how to end a video presentation that will get the results from the meeting that you, and your audience, are seeking.

Do you feel as though you’re spending more time in online meetings than you ever did in meetings at the office? Most people in business complain about the amount of time they spend in meetings or video presentations for the simple reason that many meetings waste an awful lot of time – and time is about the most precious resource we have! Meetings get a bad name because too many of them are poorly planned and managed. A key point that many of us forget is that knowing how to end a video presentation or online meeting, is just as important as knowing how to start one! And it’s often the key difference between a meeting that dribbles into nothing, and goes nowhere, and one that leaves everyone energised, motivated and clear about the next steps.

According to research conducted pre-Covid 19:

• middle managers spent 35% of their time in meetings
• upper management spent 50% of their time in meetings 
• and 67% of all employees thought they spent too much time in unproductive meetings

Research conducted post-Covid 19, shows that we are attending even more meetings than ever before (up 13.5%) but, interestingly, that these meetings are shorter (there’s been a 20.1% decrease in the average length of meetings).

But, like it or not, meetings are essential for decision-making, problem-solving, reporting, planning and brainstorming. In previous blogs we’ve shared useful tips on how to start an online meeting effectively and how to produce engaging content and run meetings successfully. However, how you end an online meeting can be the stimulus to achieving the outcomes from everyone that you need, so read on to make sure you have the tools to end an online meeting effectively and get the results you want.

To conclude an online meeting avoid just saying things like:

• We’re out of time now so let’s wrap up
• Hey, we’ve wrapped up early for once
• If no one wants to add anything then let’s finish here
• I think that’s all for today

…because these expressions end the meeting in a way that feels flat, or even negative. Your objective at the end of any meeting should be to energise, motivate and stimulate everyone into action, not sound as though you’re relieved the meeting’s finished, or put them all to sleep!

Here are 8 ways to close a video presentation to ensure it delivers positive results for you and everyone attending

1. Add the ‘end process’ to the agenda and allocate specific time for it. Make sure attendees are aware of the expected objectives and the desired outcome at the start of the meeting and revisit them at the end of the video presentation to ensure they have been met.

2. Review and assign responsibility for next steps at the end of each agenda item, and again at the end of the meeting. Agree what are the next step(s), who is responsible, and when should it be delivered? This shouldn’t always be led by you as the meeting chair. In fact, by getting the participants themselves to wrap up their next steps, action points and timing you’ll get a chance to see who’s really on board and on the right track and who might need a bit more encouragement or explanation.

3. Allow time for a ‘last chance’ comment or question from each participant. You can set the timer to ensure conciseness but it’s a good way to capture last-minute thoughts or great ideas, share a frustration or have the opportunity to vent something that might otherwise fester or irritate post-meeting.

4. Acknowledge the role and achievements of the participants. An engaged audience is a happy audience. Be sure to thank people for their contributions, great ideas and consistent ongoing attitude. Everyone likes to be recognised so give praise where it’s due and create a productive meeting environment.

5. End the meeting on time! This is the simplest, and probably one of the most overlooked solutions when discussing how to end a video presentation more successfully! It’s because it is one of people’s greatest frustrations. If the meeting has been planned well and the agenda managed properly then running over shouldn’t be an issue. Keep an eye on the clock and make sure discussions don’t overrun or become unproductive.

6. Set a date and time to review the next stage / next steps. Whether this is a follow-up meeting, phone call or one-on-one discussion, be clear about when this is going to happen.

7. Leave the meeting on a high! Even if there has been conflict during the meeting make sure it ends on a positive note. In the same way that you should start the meeting by telling the audience how this meeting fits into in to the overall ‘big picture’, then make sure they know what’s been achieved during the meeting and how this will contribute to that ‘big picture’ going forward.

8. Follow up. This is not technically how to end a video presentation, but a further step after the meeting. “If you want anything to happen you must follow up, follow up and follow up” Axcel states in, “ Two Things to Do After Every Meeting. ” This is a habit I wish I’d formed earlier in my career. It may have led to a larger email inbox, but I believe the time would ultimately have been saved in the resulting clarity of action. 

A follow-up email is an opportunity to review accomplishments, provide meeting notes, send resources, acknowledge and remind attendees of their commitments. It’s also an opportunity for meeting leaders to admit any flaws in the process and either suggest future meeting improvements or ask for additional feedback. 

When possible, keep emails short and put meeting notes in a separate document to include as an attachment. Then the email text can focus on tasks and accomplishments to maintain momentum. Use bullet points or bolded headings so people can find items of interest quickly.

So, if you follow our top tips on how to end a video presentation effectively you should be on track to achieve greater productivity and have a happier team.

How to improve your video presentations  

If you’re looking to make your online presentations more productive, then look at tailored training to lift your presenting skills.

For nearly 20 years we have been the Business Presentation Skills Experts , training & coaching thousands of people in an A-Z of global blue-chip organisations – check out what they say about our programmes .

To find out more, click on one of the buttons below:

Written By Belinda Huckle

Co-Founder & Managing Director

Belinda is the Co-Founder and Managing Director of SecondNature International. With a determination to drive a paradigm shift in the delivery of presentation skills training both In-Person and Online, she is a strong advocate of a more personal and sustainable presentation skills training methodology.

Belinda believes that people don’t have to change who they are to be the presenter they want to be. So she developed a coaching approach that harnesses people’s unique personality to build their own authentic presentation style and personal brand.

She has helped to transform the presentation skills of people around the world in an A-Z of organisations including Amazon, BBC, Brother, BT, CocaCola, DHL, EE, ESRI, IpsosMORI, Heineken, MARS Inc., Moody’s, Moonpig, Nationwide, Pfizer, Publicis Groupe, Roche, Savills, Triumph and Walmart – to name just a few.

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How To Give a Great SaaS Demo Experience: The Ultimate Guide

• February 28, 2022

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When you’re selling SaaS, a well-executed demo can be the deciding factor in closing the deal . But what makes for a great SaaS demo? And how do you make sure your presentation is tailored to the individual customer ? In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to give successful SaaS demos – from understanding your audience and setting up your environment , to personalizing your presentation and avoiding common pitfalls. Let’s get started!

How To Give a Great SaaS Demo. 

As with any sales presentation, the key to success is understanding your audience. Who are you selling to? What are their needs and pain points? What is their level of technical expertise? Answering these questions will help you determine the overall tone and approach for your demo.

Next, you’ll need to set up your environment. This means having the right tools in place – both in terms of technology and people. You’ll need demo environment is stable and easy to use. You’ll also need a way to record your demo so you can review it later. And finally, make sure you have a good internet connection! Nothing drags down a good demo like a spotty, or low resolution connection!

Now you’re ready to start personalizing your presentation. This is where you’ll really make the sale resonate with your customer. Start by gathering data about their company and industry. What are their biggest challenges? What solutions are they currently using? What are their goals for the future? Armed with this information, you can tailor your demo to show how your SaaS solution will meet their specific needs.

There are a few other things to keep in mind as you personalize your SaaS demo . First, don’t try to sell everything at once – focus on the features that will solve your customer’s specific pain points. Second, avoid using jargon and technical terms – explain things in plain English. And finally, always be prepared to answer questions. Anticipate the most common objections and have ready responses at the ready.

The Most Important Things to Know Prior to Doing a SaaS Demo

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take a look at some of the most important things to keep in mind when giving SaaS demos.

First and foremost, make sure you’re well-prepared. Familiarize yourself with the product inside and out, and practice your presentation until you have it down pat. Nothing will make you look worse than stumbling through your demo.

Second, be flexible. Understand that not every customer is going to be interested in the same features – tailor your presentation to meet their specific needs. And if they have questions, be prepared to answer them.

Third, always keep your end goal in mind. What is the ultimate outcome you’re hoping to achieve with this demo? Keep that in mind as you build your presentation and make sure you wrap up with a strong call to action.

Finally, remember that practice makes perfect. The more SaaS demos you give, the better you’ll become at tailoring your presentation and closing the deal. So don’t be afraid to get out there and start selling!

When Is the Best Time to Give a SaaS Demo?

The best time to give a SaaS demo is when the customer is ready to buy. This means they’ve already been through your marketing materials, they understand the problem your product solves, and they’re interested in learning more. If you try to give a SaaS demo too early, before discovering pain points you can help them solve you’ll likely lose their interest. Make sure you’ve done your fact finding to help you personalize your demo as well!

What Makes a Great SaaS Demo?

There are a few key factors that make a great SaaS demo. First, the presentation should be tailored to the customer’s specific needs and pain points. Second, it should be easy to understand, without using jargon or technical terms. Third, you should be prepared to answer any questions the customer may have. And finally, the demo should always end with a strong call to action.

What Content Should Be In Your SaaS Demo?

The content of your SaaS demo will vary depending on the needs of your customer, but there are a few key things it should always include.

• First, an overview of the product and how it works.
• Second, a demonstration of the product in action, showing how it can directly solve your prospects pain-points.
• Third, an explanation of the benefits your SaaS solution provides.

Ten Ways to Gather Data to Personalize for Your SaaS Demo

There are a few different ways you can gather data to personalize your SaaS demo.

• Llook at the customer’s website and see what challenges they’re trying to solve.
• Check out their social media accounts and see what kind of language they’re using to describe their challenges.
• Look at any reviews or testimonials they’ve left for other products.
• Look at their LinkedIn profile to see what kinds of content they’ve interacted with recently.
• Take a look at their job title and company size to understand what kind of SaaS solutions they might need.
• Research the specific industry they’re in and the challenges they face.
• Ask for feedback from other members of your team who have interacted with similar customers.
• Look at their purchase history to see what types of products they’ve bought in the past.
• Send them a survey to get more detailed information about their needs.
• Use a tool like Datanyze, SimilarTech, or others to see software the prospect may currently be using that is complimentary.

The Ten Most Important Things to Know Prior to Doing a SaaS Demo

If you’re going to give a great SaaS demo, there are a few things you need to know beforehand.

• Research the customer and their specific needs.
• Tailor your presentation to those needs.
• Always keep the customers end goal in mind.
• Be prepared to answer any questions the customer may have.
• Use simple language and avoid jargon without explanation.
• Focus on the benefits of your SaaS solution, and how they can solve your prospects pain-points.
• Make sure your demonstration is clear and concise.
• Practice beforehand so you can be confident in your delivery.
• End with a strong call to action.
• Follow up after the demo to answer any remaining questions and close the deal.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to giving a great SaaS demo that will close more deals and grow your business. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start selling! Thanks for reading.

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How to Deliver the Perfect Product Demo

Updated: December 02, 2021

Published: April 30, 2019

Would you ever buy a product without understanding its purpose or its capabilities?

I'm guessing your answer to this question is a ' no '.

Whether you're purchasing a new television for your apartment or buying a new CRM software for your company, it's imperative to know exactly what you're getting in return for your money.

Online research is a great place to start. But, there's a difference between looking at a page of specs and seeing the product in action. This is where a product demo can fill in the gaps.

What is a product demo?

A product demo is a demonstration of how a product or software works. It's used by salespeople to introduce a product, its functionalities, and its value to potential customers.

The product demo is different from a technical demo . A product demo is used to provide an overview of the product and the value it provides. On the other hand, a technical demo is more interactive and allows the prospect to gets to experience the product or software in a demo or sandbox setting.

Why's a product demo important? It gets the prospect excited about your product. The demo will give them an overview of your solution. Plus, it tells them how they can apply specific features to address their business needs and goals.

Software Demo Tips

• Prepare in advance.
• Set an agenda.
• Include time for initial questions.
• Describe the value propositions.
• Communicate the next steps.

1. Prepare in advance.

Before the product demo, you should know who you're meeting with. You'll want to craft your demo to cater to the specific audience you're addressing. To do this, you should understand your prospect's:

Identify who from the prospect's company will be participating in the product demo and what role they'll play in the decision-making process. How can your demonstration address the questions they might have?

Additionally, you should identify 2-3 value propositions for the prospect. Identify how your product or solution addresses their priorities and helps them reach their goals. These are a few things to consider that will help you prepare the demo and set an agenda.

2. Set an agenda.

Let them know the structure of your presentation. The agenda can be sent in an email to all the demo participants before the meeting.

Hello [Prospect Name],

Thank you for agreeing to meet with me. I'm looking forward to meeting with you on Monday, April 15th, from 2:00 to 2:30 PM for a demonstration of [your product]. Here's what we'll be covering during the 30 minutes that we have.

• Introductions and initial questions (5 minutes)
• Product introduction (5 minutes)
• Product specifics and application (10 minutes)
• Q&A and wrap-up (10 minutes)

Please let me know if you have any questions I can address in the meantime.

Kind regards,

[Your Name]

Don't forget to include the amount of time you expect to spend on each section of the demonstration. The last thing you want the prospect to think is that their time is being wasted. Make the most of the short amount of time you have, and ensure the demo caters to the prospects' needs.

3. Include time for initial questions.

Use the first few minutes of your demonstration to ask if the prospect has any questions about how the demo will be run. Then ask some questions of your own.

• "I understand that your goals are X, Y, and Z. Is my understanding correct?"
• "You're facing X challenge with your current software provider. Do you plan to address this challenge the new software you choose?"
• "What's the selection criteria for the next software/solution you choose?"

Asking questions like these will help you identify if there's anything you missed in your research. You'll address the prospect's questions throughout the demonstration and you might even be able to identify another value proposition.

4. Describe the value propositions.

Once you provide a broad overview of the product, dive into the value adds the prospect will see from using the product. This is where you can address the goals and challenges they're facing, and dig into the specific tools, features, and functions that apply to them.

For example, you could say, "You mentioned that X was a priority. Here's how Y tool/functionality can help you address this and impact Z result/metric." Then explain in further detail the value the specific functionality will provide to the prospect.

5. Communicate the next steps.

At the end of your product demo, include some time for any last minute questions the prospect might have. If there's something you aren't able to cover during the demonstration, send a recap email to set up another meeting. And include details about what you covered during the meeting to ensure you're both on the same page.

Hi [Prospect Name],

Thanks for exploring a potential partnership today. It seems like [product name] is a good fit for [you/your team], especially in these areas:

[Feature #1]: Will allow you to [accomplish X goal]

[Feature #2]: Will help you [with Y challenge]

[Feature #3]: Will mitigate [Z issue]

You mentioned you’ll need to run this by [other stakeholders’ names, decision maker’s name], so I’m attaching two resources: [Helpful product resource] and [helpful product resource].

The next step is [action item]. Please let me know if you have any questions. If not, I’ll talk to you on [date/time].

Best Product Demos

Here are a few of the best product demo videos. They're standard demos whose style can easily be used for your demo presentation and customized for individual prospects. Use them as inspiration to create a product demo of your own.

This isn't your typical product demonstration deck or video. Slack created a landing page, similar to a timeline, that reveals more product features and video demonstrations as you scroll. It walks you step-by-step through the tool and its key features. See the product demo for yourself here .

2. SurveyMonkey

SurveyMonkey's demo is short and sweet. It gets straight to the point and uses animation to demonstrate the primary features and functionalities of the survey tool.

3. Owl Labs

Rather than demonstrating software, this product demo introduces the features of a physical product. It captures viewers' attention by using storytelling to introduce a real-life application of the device.

This product demo shows how Make lets you build and automate simple and complex workflows using a simple, visual interface.

Databox starts the demo by introducing the challenges their customers face before adopting their solution. Using a voiceover, the video provides an overview of how the product works. It breaks down the demo into different sections so you can easily skip to the product features that are important to the prospect you're working with.

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Why Defining Next Steps During Your Demo Can Make or Break the Sale

This can make or break a sale. Seriously. So make sure that every sales rep takes this lesson to heart during their sales training, and feels motivated to carry it through in all of their meetings!

No, it’s not getting your potential buyer to sign the contract on the spot. Although, that would be ideal and it’s sometimes worth a try.

It’s this. Before ending the meeting, sales reps need to define and agree on clear next steps with their prospects. Defining next steps and wrapping up the meeting in a good way is just as important as setting it up well . Because when clear next steps are established, it can help ensure that the sale moves forward at a good pace .

According to Chris Orlob, Director of Sales at Gong.io, your close rates can plummet by over 70% when you fail to discuss and agree on next steps.

And you don’t need to worry about discussing next steps taking up too much of your meeting time. Statistically speaking, sales professionals who spend just four minutes longer discussing next steps with prospects, win more deals. Just four extra minutes! And why is this? Because when prospects agree and commit to following through on next steps, they shoulder some of the responsibility to keep the sale moving forward .

Now let’s look at five tactics you can incorporate into your sales training plan to teach your reps how to lock in next steps with their prospects.

5 sales training tips to help lock in next steps

1. define next steps before the demo even starts.

A recurring theme in sales is that it pays to be prepared. For example, when reps plan and prepare ahead of time for potential sales objections , they’re a lot more likely to anticipate those curveballs that will inevitably come their way.

Proper planning is also critical when defining next steps. Think about where the demo falls into the prospects’ buying process and anticipate what needs to happen next in order for them to move things forward.

Some questions reps can ask themselves to anticipate potential objections and roadblocks include:

• What is their buying process?
• Do they need to bring in more decision-makers?
• Are they ready for me to present them with a contract?
• What can I do to help them move the sale forward?

In the spirit of planning ahead, a technique that they can use to define next steps is sharing the proposed next steps with the prospect before the demo begins.

For example, when they are scheduling the demo they can add a sentence like:

"Following the demo and Q&A, we’ll send you the final proposal for you to review and further discuss it in a follow-up contract call."

‍They should also clearly define the desired timeline when defining next steps, so that both the rep and prospect can know what to expect as the deal progresses.

2. Ask questions during the Q&A session

Every demo should have some time allotted for a Q&A session. This is an opportunity to manage expectations and for the prospects to better understand the product and how it fits into their business case.

At the start of the Q&A, a rep’s questions should be open-ended to encourage the prospect to talk more and give the rep a chance to have a more complete understanding of their thinking. But as the allotted time for the meeting nears its end, it may make sense for the questions to become more pointed and close-ended.

Pointed questions require short and straightforward answers that are meant to shed light on what’s next in the process. For example, reps can ask questions like:

• Is there anything else you need to see to help you make your decision?
• Can you help me understand the next steps you need to take internally, and the timeline for reaching a final decision?
• Would it make sense to invite your colleagues to the next meeting?

Pointed questions are especially helpful for painting a picture of the decision-making process and providing reps with the information they need to approximate the timeline for closing the deal.

3. Make a strong closing statement

Just because the prospect has heard some great selling points throughout the product demo doesn’t mean that they will connect all the dots on their own. Reps should spend a few minutes toward the end of the demo to recap the main points, and specifically explain how their solution solves the prospect’s challenges.

The closing statement should have a clear call to action that can naturally evolve into defining next steps. For example, if there is another stakeholder who needs to included in the next meeting, reps can say something like:

"Do you think (name of stakeholder) would be excited about seeing how our X feature is able to reduce your costs and solve X pain points? Perhaps it makes sense for us to show them how it works. Do you have their availability to schedule something now?”

‍ Remind the prospect of the value proposition that was presented to them during the demo as the fuel to light the fire for locking in the next step.

4. Clearly lay out the sales process for success

Reps need to guide their prospects through the sales process. As every company’s sales process is different, it’s likely that the prospect will have no idea how your sales process works and what needs to happen next.

Take the initiative and put them at ease by clearly explaining the sales process and addressing any questions or concerns.

Do they need to see another feature? Is it important for them to talk with an expert on your team? Do they want to read the contract?

Whatever the situation dictates, by the end of the meeting, the prospect should be clear about what needs to happen next. Reps should never assume that their prospects are already aware of the process. And it’s always safer to over-communicate and give step-by-step instructions if they think that may be necessary.

It’s always better for the sales rep to be in control of the direction that the sale is taking. And when they are proactive and clear with defining next steps, prospects are usually happy to follow their lead.

5. Always get confirmation for the next steps

Even if the prospect is nodding and smiling when discussing next steps with the rep, that alone shouldn’t be taken as a sign that they are committing to follow through on them! Reps needs to get some sort of verbal confirmation that they agree with and will follow through on the next steps that are being defined.

Reps can also ask them if there is anything else they would like to add. Or if they have any questions about the proposed next steps. This subtle act of getting the prospect to engage in defining the next steps will go a long way in ensuring that they follow through on them.

The “next steps” are not the same as the “follow-up”

“Next steps” give prospects a road map of what to expect, or what is needed in order to move the sale forward. The “follow-up” is a different post-meeting step, though also important. It’s when reps contact the prospect (usually via email) within 12 hours to recap the meeting and reconfirm next steps.

If you’d like to learn more about best practices for demo follow-up emails, you can check out our next article ! Just as with every other part of the product demo process, reps also need sales training on how to follow up with prospects after a demo.

We’ve observed that successful sales follow-up emails share a similar format that leads to more effective responses and look forward to sharing it with you!

Final thoughts

Training your sales reps to adopt best practices, like properly setting up next steps, is one of those small improvements that adds up over time. With continual sales training reinforcement, your eps will continue to steadily improve. And before you know it, you will have trained a high-performing sales team !

So make sure you stress this lesson in your sales training agenda, and get ready to see your sales training ROI increase!

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A Quick Guide To Conducting Amazing Sprint Demos

Get seven essential tips on making the most of your sprint demos.

Laura Paine,   Delivery Lead

• project management

The sprint demo takes place at the end of the sprint and it’s basically a way to look back at project progress and deliverables.

Think of it like this: sprint demos resemble a show-and-tell that many people did at school. For example, we’d take a photo of our dog or a cool rock that we were extremely proud of, and show it off to classmates and telling the story around it. Well, the sprint demo is a bit like that show-and-tell: it’s an opportunity for you and your team to show off the things you’ve done. 

What is a sprint demo?

A sprint demo in one of the four important sprint ceremonies . It’s an opportunity to bring together key stakeholders, your team, and anyone else who is interested to see what your team has worked on in the course of the last sprint. 

The sprint demo takes place towards the end of the sprint, typically on the last day along with your sprint retrospective. It can act as a good motivator for everyone to wrap up what they’re working on and get it reviewed and deployed (if it’s code based). 

It’s important to remember that sprint demos shouldn’t be used for other purposes that can be the focus of other meetings or processes. For example, don’t use sprint demos as change request meetings or a space for mystery voices to interject with scope changes.

Sprint demo vs sprint review

As a general rule, sprint demos and sprint reviews are terms used interchangeably. They’re both meant to serve as a time to review the work that has been done on the sprint.

How to conduct an effective sprint demo

The process to conduct an amazing sprint demo hinges on good preparation and facilitating your team’s involvement. Here are seven tips to help you out:

1. Plan ahead

You want to plan the demo out beforehand with your team—what’s the one killer feature they built or designed this sprint? What amazing piece of user research did your team do that you want to share? You might be the project lead, but make sure you get other people involved in this. 

Book a short meeting a day or two beforehand to prep for this and plan out who’s going to lead which section of the meeting. It doesn’t have to be one person, you can split it out across your team. Ideally, the person who did the bulk of the work on a particular aspect should talk about that. 

Note, there will always be folks who aren’t willing or comfortable presenting, so don’t force it—just make sure to give enough support if needed or get a good brief from them if you decide to do the talking yourself.

2. Invite people beforehand

These days, many of us are working remotely in some way or another. You might have a hybrid team or a fully remote team or just a few people working from a virtual location. You often need to consider this when holding sprint demos, as you can expect a larger group of people to join than with other meetings.

Work with your client or closer stakeholders to understand who should be invited. They might open it up to a wider group of people, and it can be quite a daunting thing to suddenly have 50 people on a call with you and your team if you’re not expecting it. Always send an invite in advance. It’d be best if this event is a recurring one when you’re working in sprints (so they may fall on the same day and time each sprint).

3. Prepare yourself for questions

Make sure to have enough time for questions at the end of the demo (try to allow 45 minutes to an hour to make sure you do). To prepare, you need to remember that there may be people who aren’t close to the day-to-day of the project, but have a vested interest in it (for example, a CEO). So, they may well have basic questions about the features or research you're sharing. 

It’s useful to have some data to back up the reasons why you’ve done something. Maybe a feature or deliverable is the result of a significant call with stakeholders, or some user research synthesis. Being able to point back to the decision points around the feature is so important to the process. 

This is the way to demonstrate that you’ve listened to users and put their needs at the heart of what you’re building.

4. Set expectations

Make sure you set expectations upfront and reiterate them at the start of the session.This is not an opportunity to start chipping in feedback, so make sure everyone knows what the route for feedback is—and make sure you and your client triage any feedback together. 

If Andy from Accounting suddenly appears on a sprint demo halfway through a project for the first time, and sends over multiple change requests on the call, you can gently push back. Andy might have made some really good points, in which case you can make a note and perhaps fold it into your backlog of work.

5. Set an agenda

This is particularly important if you’re expecting a lot of people on the call. Set a list of the items you’ll go through and allocate the last few minutes for questions. You’re steering the ship, and you know how many points you need to go through and in what order. 

If your sprint demo is happening online, you can also encourage people to drop questions into the chat, so your team (the ones not presenting at each time) can answer them. This will ensure no question is ignored but without interrupting the normal flow of the demo.

6. Rehearse and review

If possible, have a dry run of the demo. This might include having some dummy data at hand to show a particular feature being worked on, such as a form submission, or a test card to show a payment process. 

If you’ve created a presentation or slide deck to give people an overview of the project as a whole, ask someone to review it. This will help ensure there are no obvious mistakes and that the flow makes sense. 

It’s also a good idea to test any video software you’ll be using if it’s not something you’re familiar with. For example, if you’re used to Google Meet for your team meetings and suddenly have to use the client’s Microsoft Teams account, make sure to test it first. You don’t want to try to figure out how to share your screen in front of 50 stakeholders!

7. Try to enjoy it

This should be a really positive meeting: you and your team are showcasing what you’ve been working on! It’s a great opportunity to drum up enthusiasm from both people who aren’t close to the project and your team members. The sprint demo may be a way to gain support from influential stakeholders and excite you and your team for the iterations ahead.

Related reads

How to use backlog refinement effectively to improve your planning, 10 advanced project management best practices you may not have thought of, how to evaluate and measure the success of a project.

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Wondershare DemoCreator

• 1. Why you need to make a demo presentation video.
• 2. How to make a demo presentation with DemoCreator.
• 3. Stunning features of DemoCreator.

Demo Presentation - An Ultimate Guide

• Part 1. What is Demo Presentation?
• Part 2. What Should You Determine Before Making a Demo Presentation Video?
• Part 3. How to Make a Demo Presentation with Wondershare DemoCreator?
• Part 4. Stunning Features
• Part 5. Recording Demo Presentation with DemoCreator
• Part 6. Conclusion

What is Demo Presentation?

A demo presentation's objective is to demonstrate a visual depiction of a product or service to existing or potential customers. Using reliable and high-quality video presentation technologies, a successful demo presentation will quickly catch the audience's attention by effectively providing the most relevant information.

The demonstration is a crucial aspect of the marketing process as a presentation. Digital marketing is all about achieving a high degree of conversion. Technical product demonstrations are created by marketers and may be presented in several ways. However, the essential aim of any presentation is to efficiently close the sale of the business deal. This is the primary goal.

All of the customer's installation issues are addressed during a successful demonstration, and all features of a product are essential to the consumer. When you have more substantial knowledge of your audience, you will be able to adjust the content of your presentation to address their issues and answer their questions.

What Should You Determine Before Making a Demo Presentation Video?

A fantastic product presentation is one of the most effective and vital methods a salesman can utilize to earn a customer's business.

Determine Who Are You Presenting To

Each client demo must be tailored to meet the specific demands of the individual consumer. Preparation for a successful demo call includes getting to know the person you'll be speaking with.

Gather as much information as you can about the organization and the person who will be your future customer. Do more than merely go to the company's website and type in the company's name on Google. The product or service, sales volume, number of workers, and organization size should all be familiar to you in advance of the demonstration.

Do more than just a Google search for the business name and a quick look at their website to gather information. The product or service, sales volume, number of workers, and organization size should all be familiar to you in advance of the demonstration.

Internal Demo

The firm presents a presentation to a group of persons who are not directly engaged in the project but who may provide insightful feedback. If any revisions are needed before being provided to a client or a stakeholder, they should be made before the project is presented to them.

In this way, you can be sure that everyone is aware of your current plans. It gives you an additional layer of protection against the risk of delivering a defective product to your customers.

Client Demo

Projects that have been going on for a long time are broken up into smaller parts that make up a phase. Furthermore, each of these stages needs to have its presentation that shows how it fits into the delivery of the current milestones.

The most important thing to do when showing these preliminary findings to the customer is to show him where we are right now and tell him what has been finished and what is still being worked on. Most of the time, how far the partnership goes throughout the project depends on how the first customer demo goes.

Acceptance Presentation

It is critical that the project's final shape be shown. You must be sure that nothing is left to chance and that everything is in order. Your ultimate goal is to show off your work and deliver it to the public in a polished manner.

As a bonus, a well-executed acceptance presentation ensures client satisfaction while also allowing the business to seek further prospects or projects.

How to Make a Demo Presentation with Wondershare DemoCreator?

Consider that the product's success is closely connected to how well its product presentation goes. In general, this is true, but it's especially true for products that are fresh on the market or have unique qualities.

A good presentation portraying the proper context to the client is successful. To ease your process, we are going to introduce you to software that can streamline your process and enable you to create a stunning presentation.

Wondershare DemoCreator is a versatile tool that enables users to record their computer displays and share files with others.

Wondershare DemoCreator, a screen recording, and an editing program, is unlike anything else on the market. Your creative talents will be used with this excellent piece of software, which helps you bring your visions to life.

This tool allows you to record the screen of your own computer, or you may record yourself using a camera. If that's something you'd want to do, it gives you the ability to choose the area of the screen you want to record. Recording video demos of games, PowerPoint presentations, video tutorials, and more may all be done with this tool.

It is possible to record your voice while a video is playing on the screen. Using the built-in video editor, you may make changes after the fact. Vloggers, gamers, and office employees all utilize it to record their screen activities.

Stunning Features

With this tool, you'll be able to play the video while the sound is playing, making sure that the viewers have a smooth experience. It will eliminate any background noise that was caught inside the audio clip.

Green Screen

Using a green screen while shooting with a webcam is highly recommended so that the video doesn't contain your surroundings. This software's green screen effect lets you use a digital green screen as a background instead of a physical one.

Marking Nodes

Wondershare DemoCreator has a feature that allows you to mark the nodes while the recording is going place. If you need to make changes to the components, you may do so at a later date. Having this feature is a must-have feature in your camera for educational purposes. It's helpful if you want to intersperse diagrams between lessons.

This aspect is essential if you want to give your video a more dramatic effect. Using the extensive range of caption templates provided by DemoCreator, you can add a title card at the opening of your movie or end credits at the conclusion. Just drag one of the images from your computer's desktop into the timeline to add a caption.

Fast Export

Fast Export may be used by users who are satisfied with their recorded screen and do not want to edit the video further using DemoCreator's editing tool.

Screen Drawing Tool

Using Wondershare DemoCreator, users may draw lines, arrows, and other symbols, highlight their content and even write on the screen as the tool captures their screen. This is a fantastic feature, especially when it comes to creating video tutorials and educational videos. You can draw on the screen in real-time using the option that lets you do so.

Recording Demo Presentation with DemoCreator

Prepare your content to record.

The screenplay is the most important component of any excellent demo film, yet many organizations get caught up in video production tools and spectacular animation effects. You'll be able to strike a good balance between giving relevant information and making your presentation attractive if you stick to the two or three most essential features and usual use cases.

Following the screening of your video, viewers should have a clear idea of the capabilities and benefits of your product or service. That is all that is needed to make a demo video effective.

Install and Launch the software

Launch the application if it's already downloaded to your system. Otherwise, download the latest version of Wondershare DemoCreator from the official website and install it.

Choose The appropriate Recording Mode

Once the application is launched, it gives you several modes to record. To record a demo presentation, click on "Start a Record Project”. This multi-functional mode allows screen recording, video recording, audio recording, screen drawing, etc.

 Adjust the recording region and background

The next step is to configure and modify the recording region and background. DemoCreator allows you to record a video with a virtual background using a green-screen effect.

You can also select if you wish to screen record a part of the screen while recording a demo presentation by using the “Capture Area”.

 Adjust the audio and webcam

The next step is to adjust your audio and your webcam through audio and webcam settings. Wondershare DemoCreator lets you choose the kind of webcam recording you wish to make. If you hover your mouse cursor over the "WebCam" option, you will see a few of the options available to you. DemoCreator lets you utilize a circle, mirror images of your camera's screen, or even facial recognition.

Start Recording

Once you have set everything according to your desire, click on the red button to start recording. You can also click on F9 to presume.

Editor Mode

Once you are done, stop the recording by clicking f10. It will automatically take you to video editing mode.

Transitions

To add transitions to your video, click on “transitions” from the taskbar. Wondershare DemoCreator allows you to access its loads of transitions.

To add annotations to your demo presentation, click on “annotation from the taskbar, and you will be provided with several options that might come in handy to create an absolute demo video.

You can also add captions to your demo video. DemoCreator gives you a vast library of captions to choose from. It would help a lot for others to perceive your demo video.

Cursor Affect

You can choose from a lot of pre-installed effects. To do that, click on “Effects” from the taskbar. It will show what effects you can use to enhance your demo video, such as the cursor effect.

You can also add filters to your demo video to change its overall look. Click on the filter and choose whichever feels right to you.

Sound Effect

You can also add sound effects in the background of your video by clicking on “Sound” from the taskbar.

If you wish to eliminate some background sound. Use denoise, as this tool can successfully remove any unwanted background noise.

Crop, Split & Voice Overs

You can also add voice-overs to your demo video by simply clicking on the voice recognition symbol. Moreover, you can also crop or split your demo video. Alternatively, you may use DemoCreator to blend all of the smaller videos into a single video.

Export Video

Once you are done with all the editing processes, click on the export button in the right corner. Choose the most suitable option, and you are done.

As you can see, a lot goes into the preparation of a great product demo. DemoCreator provides an environment filled with tools that may be utilized. Once the presentation has been recorded, it may be used in a professional context or shared on almost any internet forum.

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How to create a great thesis defense presentation: everything you need to know

Get your team on prezi – watch this on demand video.

Anete Ezera April 13, 2024

Ready to take on your thesis defense presentation? It’s not just about wrapping up years of study; it’s your moment to share your insights and the impact of your work. A standout presentation can make all the difference. It’s your chance to highlight the essentials and really connect with your audience.

This is where Prezi comes into play. Forget about flipping through slide after slide. With Prezi, you craft a narrative that pulls your audience in. It simplifies the complex, ensuring your key points hit home. Let’s explore how Prezi can help transform your thesis defense into a successful presentation.

What is a thesis defense presentation and why are they needed? 

Whether you’re preparing for a master’s thesis defense or a Ph.D. thesis defense, this final step in your academic journey is the one with the most significance, as it dramatically influences your final grade. It’s also your chance to display the dedication and effort you’ve put into your research, a way to demonstrate how significant your work is. 

So, why is this such a big deal? A good presentation helps convince your teachers that your research is solid and makes a difference in your field. It’s your time to answer questions, show that your research methods were sound, and point out what’s new and interesting about your work. In the end, a great thesis defense presentation helps you finish strong and makes sure you leave a lasting impression as you wrap up this chapter of your academic life.

Best practices for making a successful thesis defense presentation 

In order to craft a standout thesis defense presentation, you need to do more than just deliver research findings. Here are some key strategies to ensure success, and how Prezi can play a crucial role in elevating your presentation.

Start with a strong introduction

Kick-off with an engaging introduction that lays out your research question, its significance, and your objectives. This initial segment grabs attention and sets the tone. Using Prezi’s zoom feature can make your introduction pop by visually underscoring key points, helping your audience grasp the importance of your work right from the start.

Organize your presentation clearly

A coherent structure is essential for guiding your audience through your thesis defense presentation. Prezi can help by offering a map view of your content’s layout upfront, providing a clear path through your introduction, methodology, results, and conclusion. This clarity keeps your audience engaged and makes your arguments easier to follow.

Incorporate multimedia elements

Adding multimedia elements like videos, audio clips, and animations can greatly improve the appeal of your thesis defense presentation. Prezi supports the seamless integration of these elements, allowing you to bring your research to life in a more vibrant and engaging way. Videos can serve as powerful testimonials or demonstrations, while animations can help illustrate complex processes or changes over time. This variety keeps your audience engaged and helps convey your message in a more exciting way.

Simplify complex data

Your findings need to be presented in a way that’s easy for your audience to understand. Prezi shines here, with tools that transform intricate data into clear, engaging visuals. By implementing charts and graphs into your presentation, you can make your data stand out and support your narrative effectively.

Engage your audience

Make your thesis defense a two-way conversation by interacting with your audience. Whether it’s through questions, feedback, or direct participation, engagement is key. Prezi allows for a flexible presentation style, letting you navigate sections in response to audience input, creating a dynamic and engaging experience.

Highlight key takeaways

Emphasize the key takeaways of your research throughout your presentation to ensure your audience grasps the most critical aspects of your work. With Prezi, you can use spotlighting and strategic zooming to draw attention to these takeaways, making them stand out. This method helps reinforce your main points, ensuring they stick with your audience long after your presentation concludes. By clearly defining what your audience should remember, you guide their understanding and appreciation of your research’s value and implications.

Practice makes perfect

Confidence in delivery comes from thorough practice. Familiarize yourself with every aspect of your thesis defense presentation, including timing, voice control, and gestures. Prezi Video is a great tool for rehearsing, as it allows you to blend your presentation materials with your on-camera performance, mirroring the live defense setting and helping you polish your delivery.

End with a lasting impression

Conclude your presentation powerfully by summarizing your main findings, their implications, and future research directions. Prezi’s ability to zoom out and show the big picture at your conclusion helps reinforce how each section of your presentation contributes to your overall thesis, ensuring your research leaves a memorable impact on your audience.

By using these tips and taking advantage of what Prezi offers, you can make your thesis defense presentation really stand out. It’ll not only hit the mark with your audience but also clearly show why your research matters.

Meeting tight deadlines with Prezi 

Facing a looming deadline for your thesis defense presentation? Prezi offers smart solutions to help you create a polished and engaging presentation quickly, even if it feels like you’re down to the wire.

A closer look at Prezi AI features

Prezi AI is a standout feature for those pressed for time. It assists in structuring your presentation efficiently, suggesting design elements and layouts that elevate your content. This AI-driven approach means you can develop a presentation that looks meticulously planned and executed in a fraction of the time it would normally take. The result? A presentation that communicates the depth and value of your research clearly and effectively, without the last-minute rush being evident. Here’s what Prezi AI can do:

• Streamlined creation process: At the core of Prezi’s efficiency is the AI presentation creator . Perfect for those last-minute crunch times, it’s designed to tackle tight deadlines with ease.
• Easy start: Kick off your presentation creation with just a click on the “Create with AI” button. Prezi AI guides you through a smooth process, transforming your initial ideas or keywords into a structured and visually appealing narrative.
• Visual impact: There’s no need to dive deep into design details. Simply provide some basic input, and Prezi AI will craft it into a presentation that grabs and holds your audience’s attention, making your thesis defense visually compelling.
• AI text editing: Spending too much time fine-tuning your message? Prezi AI text editing features can help. Whether you need to expand on a concept, clarify complex terms, or condense your content without losing impact, Prezi AI streamlines these tasks.
• Content refinement: Adjust text length for deeper explanation, simplify language for better understanding, and ensure your presentation’s content is precise and to the point. Prezi AI editing tools help you refine your message quickly, so you can focus on the essence of your research.

Using Prezi Video for remote thesis defense presentations

For remote thesis defenses, Prezi Video steps up to ensure your presentation stands out. It integrates your on-screen presence alongside your presentation content, creating a more personal and engaging experience for your audience. This is crucial in maintaining attention and interest, particularly in a virtual format where keeping your audience engaged presents additional challenges. Prezi Video makes it seem as though you’re presenting live alongside your slides, helping to simulate the in-person defense experience and keep your audience focused on what you’re saying.

Using these advanced Prezi features, you can overcome tight deadlines with confidence, ensuring your thesis defense presentation is both impactful and memorable, no matter the time constraints.

The Prezi experience: what users have to say 

Prezi users have shared compelling insights on how the platform’s unique features have revolutionized their presentations. Here’s how their experiences can inspire your thesis defense presentation:

Storytelling with Prezi

Javier Schwersensky highlights the narrative power of Prezi: “This is a tool that is going to put you ahead of other people and make you look professional and make your ideas stand out,” he remarks. For your thesis defense, this means Prezi can help you craft a narrative that not only presents your research but tells a story that captures and retains the committee’s interest.

Flexibility and creativity

Tamara Montag-Smit appreciates Prezi for its “functionality of the presentation that allows you to present in a nonlinear manner.” This flexibility is key in a thesis defense, allowing you to adapt your presentation flow in real time based on your audience’s engagement or questions, ensuring a more dynamic and interactive defense.

The open canvas

Vitek Dočekal values Prezi’s open canvas , which offers “creative freedom” and the ability to “create a mind map and determine how to best present my ideas.” For your thesis defense, this means Prezi lets you lay out and show off your work in a way that makes sense and grabs your audience’s attention, turning complicated details into something easy and interesting to follow.

Engagement and retention

Adam Rose points out the engagement benefits of Prezi: “Being able to integrate videos is extremely effective in capturing their attention.” When you need to defend a thesis, using Prezi to include videos or interactive content can help keep your committee engaged, making your presentation much more memorable.

These real insights show just how effective Prezi is for crafting truly influential presentations. By incorporating Prezi into your thesis defense presentation, you can create a defense that not only shows how strong your research is but also leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

Thesis defense presentations for inspiration 

Prezi is much more than a platform for making presentations; it’s a place where you can find inspiration by browsing presentations that other Prezi users have made. Not only that, but Prezi offers numerous templates that would be useful for thesis defense presentations, making the design process much easier. Here are a few examples that you may find helpful: 

Research project template by Prezi 

This Prezi research project template stands out as an ideal choice for thesis defense presentations due to its well-structured format that facilitates storytelling from start to finish. It begins with a clear introduction and problem statement, setting a solid foundation for the narrative. The inclusion of sections for user research, interviews, demographics, and statistics allows for a detailed presentation of the research process and findings, which are crucial when defending a thesis. 

Visual elements like user mapping and journey maps help make complex information understandable and engaging, which is crucial for maintaining the committee’s attention. Additionally, addressing pain points and presenting prototypes showcases problem-solving efforts and practical applications of the research. The template culminates in a conclusion that ties everything together, emphasizing the research’s impact and future possibilities. Its comprehensive yet concise structure makes it an excellent tool for communicating the depth and significance of your work in a thesis defense.

Civil rights movement Prezi

This Prezi on the Civil Rights Movement exemplifies an effective thesis defense presentation by seamlessly blending structured content, multimedia enhancements, and dynamic navigation. It organizes information into coherent sections like “About,” “Key Events,” and “Key People,” offering a comprehensive view ideal for a thesis presentation. The strategic use of videos adds depth, providing historical context in a dynamic way that text alone cannot, enhancing the audience’s engagement and understanding. 

Furthermore, Prezi’s open canvas feature brings the narrative to life, allowing for a fluid journey through the Civil Rights Movement. This method of presentation, with its zooming and panning across a virtual canvas, not only captivates but also helps to clarify the connections between various elements of the research, showcasing how to effectively communicate complex ideas in a thesis defense.

AI-assisted history template

This AI-assisted presentation template stands out as a great choice for thesis defense presentations, especially for those rooted in historical research. By merging striking visuals with rich, informative content, you can use this template to craft a narrative that breathes life into past events, guiding the audience on an engaging journey through time. Its sequential storytelling approach, empowered by Prezi AI , ensures a smooth transition from one historical point to the next, demonstrating the depth and continuity of your research. This template showcases Prezi AI’s capability to enhance narrative flow. By integrating advanced visuals and text, it captivates audiences and makes it an invaluable tool for presenting complex historical theses in a clear, compelling way.

Master your final grade with a Prezi thesis defense presentation 

Preparing for a thesis defense, whether for a master’s or Ph.D., is a pivotal moment that significantly influences your final grade. It’s your platform to demonstrate the dedication behind your research and its importance in your field. A well-executed presentation convinces your educators of your research’s validity and your ability to bring fresh perspectives to light.

To craft a successful thesis defense presentation, Prezi’s innovative features can be a game-changer. Prezi can empower you to transform presentations into captivating stories and provide you with the flexibility and creative freedom needed to make your presentation an outstanding success. Incorporating videos or utilizing Prezi’s non-linear presentation style can keep your committee engaged and emphasize your research’s significance.

Prezi also serves as a hub of inspiration, offering templates perfect for thesis defenses. From structured research project templates to dynamic historical narratives, Prezi provides tools that communicate your thesis’s depth and significance effectively, ensuring you leave a memorable impact on your audience. So, it’s time to revamp your thesis defense presentation and change it from dull to inspirational with Prezi. 

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Global Accessibility Awareness Day at WSU | May 16, 2024

May 16, 2024, is the 13th Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD)!

WSU GAAD Presentation

We will offer presentations on alternative text for images , accessible social media , web accessibility testing , ADA Regulations, policies, and digital accessibility . Each presentation will provide a period of questions and answers at the end.

What is GAAD?

From GAAD : The purpose of GAAD is to get everyone talking, thinking, and learning about digital access and inclusion, and the more than One Billion people with disabilities/impairments.

ADA Regulations, Policies, and Digital Accessibility

Time : 9:00-10:00 a.m.

You Will Learn

• The policies and regulations that guide digital accessibility at WSU
• Disabilities and assistive technologies
• The guidelines, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA and Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust (P.O.U.R)
• Digital accessibility and digital content and technology

Alternative Text for Images

Time : 10:30-11:30 a.m.

You Will Learn How to

• Determine an image’s function and purpose
• Use a decision tree for an image’s alternative text
• Write alternative text for an image
• Tips for writing alternative text

Creating Accessible Social Media Posts

Time : 2:00-3:00 p.m.

• videos & captions

Web Accessibility Testing with the Core Concept Check Sheet and WAVE Tool

Time : 3:30-4:30 p.m.

• Identify and correct accessibility issues with headings, links, lists, and images.
• Use the digital accessibility Core Concept Check Sheet (pdf) to quickly spot issues.
• Apply the free WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool to test and fix web pages.

Trump tries to paint college campus anti-Israel protests as a Biden political liability

WASHINGTON — Joe Biden’s advisers believe that tensions over U.S. support for Israel in the war in Gaza spreading through college campuses will soon flame out and that there is neither a need nor an upside for him to weigh in more directly.

For now, Biden is taking a hands-off posture toward the unrest and has no plans to step up his involvement in escalating clashes between police and protesters, White House and campaign advisers said, even as Donald Trump looks to capitalize on the issue.

Biden's view is that it’s up to university leaders to decide how to cope with campus demonstrations that are emerging as the latest flashpoint in the presidential race, advisers said. In keeping with that approach, he didn’t intervene or publicly object as police swept onto the Columbia University campus Tuesday night and arrested about 230 protesters, including about 40 who’d seized a building and erected an encampment calling attention to their demand for a cease-fire in Gaza.

Inside the Biden re-election effort, advisers seem hopeful that the protests won’t distract from their message that the economy is improving and that Biden is providing more competent and stable leadership than Trump did as president.

The academic calendar may play a role as classes come to an end for the summer. What’s more, a White House official said that the overall number of protesters is relatively small and that the war between Israel and Hamas is far from a top-of-mind concern of young voters, who were a key part of Biden’s 2020 electoral coalition.

A survey last month of voters ages 18-29 found that the Gaza conflict ranked 15th on their list of important issues, the official noted.

Trump’s political operation sees an opening, however. Corey Lewandowski, a consultant to the Republican National Committee who previously worked for Trump, said in an interview: “This is not good for the young vote for Biden. Historically, the Democrats have outperformed Republicans among younger voters. If it is perceived that Joe Biden is soft, meaning not standing up to the people who are protesting, it’s going to hurt him.”

Speaking Wednesday at a campaign event in Wisconsin, Trump derided the protesters as “raging lunatics and Hamas sympathizers" and called on Biden to “speak out” — accusing him of being “definitely against Israel.” 

Trump also took aim at Columbia’s president, Minouche Shafik, one of the university leaders whom Biden is deferring to as the campus protests unfold.

In a reference to the school, Trump said: “The person that heads it up — a woman — she waited so long. She was so weak. She was so afraid. She was so bad.”

A Biden adviser said, "Donald Trump has repeatedly fanned the flames and encouraged civil unrest as a political strategy, and it has repeatedly failed to be effective."

The campus protests pose a dilemma for Biden as the pace of the general election campaign quickens. Trump’s stance is simple enough for a bumper sticker: “People have to respect law and order in this country,” he wrote Tuesday on social media .

Biden’s stance is more nuanced and more difficult to explain to a mass audience. He says he supports peaceful protests consistent with the First Amendment but not demonstrations that result in vandalism, trespassing and other crimes.

Like the protesters, Biden says he believes Israel has inflicted too much carnage in Gaza. Unlike some of them, he defends Israel’s sovereignty and recoils at the notion of Jews’ losing a homeland .

Alan Kessler, a Democratic fundraiser who is Jewish, said Biden spoke up for Israel in a speech he attended in recent months. As they chatted afterward and Kessler praised the address, Biden told him: “‘That wasn’t a speech; that came from the heart. That’s what I truly believe,’” he recalled, adding: “He didn’t smile at that. He looked at me intensely.”

Biden seems most at ease when he is decrying antisemitic harassment on campus. He is set to give a speech Tuesday at a ceremony commemorating the Holocaust.

Senior White House officials have been amplifying his message. Douglas Emhoff, the husband of Vice President Kamala Harris, said Wednesday at an event in New York: "We’re in favor of the right to protest. But when that crosses into violence — when that crosses into calls for genocide, calls for Jews to be murdered — that’s completely unacceptable and must be stopped.”

Critics in both parties, though, insist that the Biden administration hasn’t been proactive enough in creating a safe atmosphere for students on campus. Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., sent a letter last week calling on Biden’s education secretary, Miguel Cardona, to be more aggressive in investigating complaints of campus antisemitism.

After a meeting with Jewish students at Columbia last week, House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., told NBC News that Biden “has not taken decisive action.”

“He is the president of the United States," Johnson said. "He has the biggest megaphone in our country, and he needs to use it. He needs to call out what is wrong and what is dangerous. I think he’s derelict in his duty if he doesn’t.”

The campus protests of 2024 bookend another set of protests that bedeviled Trump in the final year of his term. In 2020, Trump fumed over demonstrations that broke out nationwide over a white police officer’s killing of a Black man, George Floyd, in Minneapolis.

Trump believed the protests made the U.S. look “weak,” and he wanted to call in the military to rout the demonstrators, former appointees said.

Biden, a candidate at the time, seized the moment both to rally Black voters and to showcase his temperamental and managerial differences with Trump.

Four days after Floyd’s murder, Biden delivered a live address from his home and then did a series of television interviews to condemn his death and discuss systemic discrimination against African Americans. 

“This is no time for incendiary tweets. It’s no time to encourage violence. It’s a national crisis. We need real leadership right now, leadership that will bring everyone to the table so we can take measures to root out systemic racism,” he said in his address. 

A day later, Biden left his home in Wilmington, Delaware, for just the second time after the Covid pandemic lockdowns began to visit an area of Wilmington that had seen some rioting during Floyd demonstrations.

Peter Nicholas is a senior national political reporter for NBC News.

Monica Alba is a White House correspondent for NBC News.

Carol E. Lee is the Washington managing editor.

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At Brown University, protesters and administrators reach deal to end encampment

Olivia Ebertz

Brown University leaders have agreed to hold a vote on divesting from companies that support Israel, and pro-Palestinian student demonstrators agreed to clear their encampment.

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Kentucky Derby 2024 highlights: Mystik Dan edges Sierra Leone to win Triple Crown's first leg

The 2024 Kentucky Derby was one for the history books as the 150th Run for the Roses came down to a photo finish at Churchill Downs on Saturday.

The first leg of horse racing's Triple Crown was won by Mystik Dan , who edged Sierra Leone by less than a nose at the finish line. Sierra Leone, along with Fierceness, was one of the field's favorites among the 20-horse field .

The most exciting two minutes in sports wound up taking several more after officials had to gather to determine who crossed first between Mystik Dan and Sierra Leone, with third-place finisher Forever Young just another step behind. Forever Young  came excruciatingly close to giving Japan its first Kentucky Derby win.

USA TODAY Sports provided analysis and highlights from Churchill Downs:

Mystik Dan won by a whisker. The key? One great ride.

Saturday, in the 150th Kentucky Derby, 38-year-old journeyman Brian Hernandez delivered one of the great human performances in the history of the race.

And the horse he rode wasn’t too bad, either.

With a rail-skimming ride that was practically perfect in its boldness and timing, Hernandez got 18-1 shot Mystik Dan home by a whisker over the surging Sierra Leone and Forever Young in a three-horse photo finish that left the Churchill Downs crowd of 156,710 initially wondering who had won America’s most famous horse race.

“(Hernandez) was the difference in winning and losing today, for sure,” trainer Kenny McPeek said.

Read Dan Wolken's full column here.

Texas man wins nearly $60,000 on Mystik Dan

Dave Oblisk walked away from Churchill Downs with nearly $60,000 after placing 12 bets on Mystik Dan, the winner of the 150th Kentucky Derby.

After the photo finish between Mystik Dan, Sierra Leone and Forever Young, Oblisk was shaking, his family members said.

"I'm still shaking!" Oblisk, a resident of Austin, Texas, told the Courier Journal , part of the USA TODAY Network.

2024 Kentucky Derby official results

• 1. Mystik Dan
• 2. Sierra Leone
• 3. Forever Young
• 4. Catching Freedom
• 5. T O Password
• 6. Resilience
• 7. Stronghold
• 8. Honor Marie
• 9. Endlessly
• 10. Dornach
• 11. Track Phantom
• 12. West Saratoga
• 13. Domestic Product
• 14. Epic Ride
• 15. Fierceness
• 16. Society Man
• 17. Just Steel
• 18. Grand Mo The First
• 19. Catalytic
• 20. Just A Touch

What is Triple Crown in horse racing? 

The Triple Crown refers to the three major races in American Thoroughbred horse racing. It consists of the  Kentucky Derby , Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes. A horse that finishes first in all three races in the same year is said to have won the Triple Crown. 

When is the 2024 Preakness Stakes? 

The Preakness will be staged Saturday, May 18 from Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. Coverage will begin at 1:30 p.m. ET, with the post time expected to be around 6:50 p.m. National Treasure was last year’s winner of the Preakness. 

2024 Kentucky Derby payouts

(Winnings based on a $2 bet unless otherwise noted)

• 1. Mystik Dan: $39.22 to win; $16.32 to place; $10 for show
• 2. Sierra Leone: $6.54 to place; $4.64 for show
• 3. Forever Young: $5.58 for show

2024 Kentucky Derby top three

• 1st place: Mystik Dan (trainer: Kenny McPeek)
• 2nd place: Sierra Leone (trainer: Chad Brown)
• 3rd place: Forever Young (trainer: Yoshito Yahagi)

Watch: Kentucky Derby photo finish

Trainer kenny mcpeek wins kentucky derby after winning kentucky oaks.

Trainer Kenny McPeek had the winning horse in Friday’s Kentucky Oaks and then Saturday’s Kentucky Derby. No trainer has accomplished the feat since Ben Jones in 1952.

"Just brilliant jockey and ride," McPeek said on the NBC broadcast immediately after the race. "The draw helped us from the beginning; we talked about that. I was shocked Dornach broke bad.

"But (jockey) Brian (Hernandez Jr.) is amazing, probably one of the most underrated riders in racing. Not anymore."

Hernandez won the Oaks on Thorpedo Anna on Friday at Churchill Downs before guiding Mystik Dan to the photo-finish win.

"That was the longest few minutes I’ve ever felt in my life," he said on NBC immediately after the race. "It was exciting when we hit the line, but I wasn’t sure if we won, it was quite a rush to sit there and wait for it."

Kentucky Derby winners since 2000 

Here are the Kentucky Derby winners over the years, with the winning horse and the winning time in parentheses. Eventual Triple Crown winners are in bold. 

2024 -- Mystik Dan

2023 – Mage (2:01.57) 

2022 – Rich Strike (2:02.61) 

2021 – Mandaloun (2:01.36) 

2020 – Authentic (2:00.61) 

2019 – Country House (2:03.93) 

2018  –  Justify (2:04:20)  

2017 – Always Dreaming (2:03.59) 

2016 – Nyquist (2:01.31) 

2015  –  American Pharoah (2:03.02)  

2014 – California Chrome (2:03.66) 

2013 – Orb (2:02.89) 

2012 – I'll Have Another (2:01.83) 

2011 – Animal Kingdom (2:02.04) 

2010 – Super Saver (2:04.45) 

2009 – Mine That Bird (2:02.66) 

2008 – Big Brown (2:01.82) 

2007 – Street Sense (2:02.17) 

2006 – Barbaro (2:01.36) 

2005 – Giacomo (2:02.75) 

2004 – Smarty Jones   (2:04.06) 

2003 – Funny Cide (2:01.19) 

2002 – War Emblem (2:01.13) 

2001 – Monarchos (1:59.97) 

2000 – Fusaichi Pegasus (2:01.00) 

Mystik Dan wins 2024 Kentucky Derby 

... and it’s Mystik Dan, at 18-1 odds, who crosses the finish line barely ahead of Sierra Leone to win the 150th Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. 

Kentucky Derby starts

And they're off ...

Kentucky Derby start time 

Post time for the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby is 6:57 p.m. ET on Saturday, May 4. 

Why was Encino scratched from Kentucky Derby? 

Lexington Stakes winner Encino  was scratched from  Saturday’s Kentucky Derby due to a soft tissue strain in his right leg, according to trainer Brad Cox. 

Cox said the colt didn’t look right after training on Tuesday and was taken to a hospital in Lexington where X-rays revealed the diagnosis. 

With Encino out of the race,  Epic Ride  will draw in from the also-eligible list and take the No. 20 spot in the starting gate. — Jason Frakes, Louisville Courier Journal  

Churchill Downs capacity 

When it's race day, Churchill Downs is one of the most packed venues in sports. The venue hosts around 165,000 people for the Kentucky Derby, a majority of which are in the grandstands of the race track. 

Latest Kentucky Derby odds

Odds as of 6:39 p.m. ET

• Fierceness, 3-1
• Sierra Leone, 9/2
• Forever Young, 6-1
• Catching Freedom, 8-1
• Just a Touch, 11-1
• Honor Marie, 14-1
• Mystik Dan, 18-1
• Just Steel, 21-1
• Dornoch, 22-1
• West Saratoga, 22-1
• Domestic Product, 28-1
• Resilience, 31-1
• Catalytic, 34-1
• Stronghold, 35-1
• Track Phantom, 40-1
• Epic Ride, 46-1
• T O Password, 47-1
• Endlessly, 47-1
• Society Man, 47-1
• Grand Mo The First, 48-1

Kentucky Derby TV coverage 

The Kentucky Derby will be broadcast live on NBC, with coverage starting at 2:30 p.m. ET. 

Kentucky Derby live stream 

For cord-cutters, the Kentucky Derby can be streamed on Peacock and Fubo .

Kentucky Derby field, odds 

Post positions were drawn Saturday  for the race. Here's where each horse will start , in addition to the horse's trainer, jockey and odds, according to BetMGM . 

Here's where each horse landed, in addition to the horse's trainer, jockey and odds: 

• 1.  Dornoch , Danny Gargan, Luis Saez, 20-1 
• 2.  Sierra Leone , Chad Brown, Tyler Gaffalione, 3-1 
• 3.  Mystik Dan , Kenny McPeek, Brian Hernandez Jr., 20-1 
• 4.  Catching Freedom , Brad Cox, Flavien Prat, 8-1 
• 5.  Catalytic , Saffie Joseph Jr., José Ortiz, 30-1 
• 6.  Just Steel , D. Wayne Lukas, Keith Asmussen, 20-1 
• 7.  Honor Marie , Whit Beckman, Ben Curtis, 20-1 
• 8.  Just a Touch , Brad Cox, Florent Geroux, 10-1 
• 9.  T O Password , Daisuke Takayanagi, Kazushi Kimura, 30-1 
• 10.  Forever Young , Yoshito Yahagi, Ryusei Sakai, 10-1 
• 11.  Track Phantom , Steve Asmussen, Joel Rosario, 20-1 
• 12.  West Saratoga , Larry Demeritte, Jesús Castañón, 50-1 
• 13.  Endlessly , Michael McCarthy, Umberto Rispoli, 30-1 
• 14.  Domestic Product , Chad Brown, Irad Ortiz Jr., 30-1 
• 15.  Grand Mo the First , Victor Barboza Jr., Emisael Jaramillo, 50-1 
• 16.  Fierceness , Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez, 5-2 
• 17.  Stronghold , Phil D’Amato, Antonio Fresu, 20-1 
• 18.  Resilience , Bill Mott, Junior Alvarado, 20-1 
• 19.  Society Man , Danny Gargan, Frankie Dettori, 50-1 
• 20.  Epic Ride , John Ennis, Adam Beschizza, 30-1 

Epic Ride replaces  Encino , which was  officially scratched Tuesday .  Mugatu  is also eligible if another competitor scratches.

Kentucky Derby: On the ground at Churchill Downs

Our friends at the Louisville Courier Journal have on the ground updates from historic Churchill Downs .

Kentucky Derby attendance

There were a reported 156,710 people at Churchill Downs Saturday for the 150th Kentucky Derby.

Aaron Rodgers, Travis Kelce in attendance 

New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers is at Churchill Downs and we heard straight from the horse’s mouth. The official X page for the Kentucky Derby shared a photo of Rodgers blending in with a crowd of patrons. 

Earlier in the day, Rodgers said he’s interested in becoming an owner. When asked what he would name his horse, the QB offered up the name of his former Packers teammate, center Corey Linsley. “That boy’s got stamina,” Rodgers said.

Rodgers isn’t the only football player in the building. Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce took in the festivities at Churchill Downs on Saturday afternoon. — Cydney Henderson

Where is the Kentucky Derby held? 

Churchill Downs in located in Louisville, Kentucky. It opened in 1875 and has hosted the Kentucky Derby ever since.

How big is Churchill Downs? 

Churchill Downs occupies 147 acres and it features a one-mile dirt, oval racetrack and a seven-furlong turf racecourse. It is also has barns behind the racetrack, which "house more than 1,400 horses each year,"  according to the facility .

How long is the Kentucky Derby? 

The Kentucky Derby is labeled "the most exciting two minutes in sports,” because it usually lasts about two minutes. In distance, the race is 1 ¼ miles long .

Race 1: Maiden Special Weight

Results of the first race at Churchill Downs on Saturday:

• 1st place: Pure Force (trainer: Brad Cox)
• 2nd place: Top Gun Rocket
• 3rd place: Culprit

Race 2: Allowance Optional Claiming

Results of the second race at Churchill Downs on Saturday:

• 1st place: Scylla (trainer: William Mott)
• 2nd place: Secret Statement
• 3rd place: Joke Sisi (CHI)

Race 3: Allowance Optional Claiming

Results of the third race at Churchill Downs on Saturday:

• 1st place: Mindframe (trainer: Todd Pletcher)
• 2nd place: Cornishman
• 3rd place: Higgins Boat

Kentucky Derby weather 

Saturday's forecast for Louisville calls for a high of 82 degrees with partly sunny skies, but scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to join the party, according to the National Weather Service . There's a 40% probability of precipitation, mainly between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. ET, but it should be all clear by the 6:57 p.m. ET post time. 

Race 4: Knicks Go Overnight Stakes

Results of the fourth race at Churchill Downs on Saturday:

• 1st place: Strong Quality (trainer: Mark Casse)
• 2nd place: Kupuna
• 3rd place: Five Star General

Kentucky Derby ticket prices 

The available seating options to buy on  Ticketmaster  are infield general admission (standing room only with no track view), infield final turn general admission (standing room only with no track view), reserved seating, dining and premier dining. Frontside plaza walkaround seats are sold out. Here are the prices for each section on Ticketmaster: 

• Infield general admission : $130 ($135 with fees). 
• Infield final turn general admission : $320 ($387 with fees). 
• Reserved s eating : $975 ($1,160 with fees). 
• Dining : $1,786 ($2,125 with fees). 
• Premier dining : $5,814 ($7,034 with fees). 

How have Kentucky Derby favorites fared?

NBC political journalist Steve Kornacki broke down how the favorites have fared recently in the Derby. From 2013-2018, the favorites won every year.

Here’s how the betting favorites fared in the last five years:

• 2023: Angel of Empire, 4-1, 3rd
• 2022: Epicenter, 4-1, 2nd
• 2021: Essential Quality, 5/2, 3rd*
• 2020: Tiz The Law, 3/5, 2nd
• 2019: Improbable, 4-1, 4th *

Note: After the disqualification of other horses, Essential Quality and Improbable's finishes were officially recorded as 3rd and 4th place, respectively.

Race 5: Twin Spires Turf Sprint S

Results of the fifth race at Churchill Downs on Saturday:

• 1st place: Cogburn (trainer: Steven Asmussen)
• 2nd place: Filo Di Arianna
• 3rd place: Mischief Magic

Kentucky Derby 2023 winner 

Mage, who didn’t even race as a 2-year-old and had one victory in three career starts, won the 2023 Kentucky Derby with 15-1 odds . 

Jace’s Road, Reincarnate, and Kingsbarns broke out early from the pack, crossing the ¼ mile at 22:35. Coming down at the ½ mile mark, Verifying set the pace at 45.73, but at the top of the stretch, Two Phil’s bolted out to the lead, but the Mage came from the outside with long strides passing Two Phil’s on inside and won by a length, crossing the finish at 2:01.57. 

The day was marred by the death of two horses . Freezing Point and Chloe’s Dream were euthanized after racing earlier in the day. 

Race 6: Derby City Distaff S.

Results of the sixth race at Churchill Downs on Saturday:

• 1st place: Vahva (trainer: Cherie DeVaux)
• 2nd place: Alva Starr
• 3rd place: Flying Connection

How many races are there on Kentucky Derby day?

The 2024 Kentucky Derby is  one of 14 races  that will be held Saturday, making it one event – albeit easily the most high-profile – on a busy day at Churchill Downs .

The 2024 Kentucky Derby is the 12th race that will go off Saturday at Churchill Downs, beginning about 90 minutes after the preceding race, the Old Forester Bourbon Turf Classic. — Craig Meyer, USA TODAY Network

Kentucky Derby 2024 purse 

The purse for this year's Kentucky Derby has reached a staggering $5 million, which will be divided among the top five finishers. The winner will receive the largest portion of the prize pool, amounting to $3.1 million, while the runner-up will receive $1 million. The third-place finisher will receive a prize of $500,000. 

Race 7: Longines Churchill Distaff Turf Mile Stakes

Results of the seventh race at Churchill Downs on Saturday:

• 1st place: Chili Flag (FR) (trainer: Chad Brown)
• 2nd place: Coppice
• 3rd place: Delahaye

Race 8: Pat Day Mile Stakes

Results of the eighth race at Churchill Downs on Saturday:

• 1st place: Seize the Grey
• 2nd place: Nash
• 3rd place: Vlahos

Race 9: American Turf

Results of the ninth race at Churchill Downs on Saturday:

• Formidable Man

Race 10: Churchill Downs Stakes

Results of the 10th race at Churchill Downs on Saturday:

• Here Mi Song

Race 11: Old Forester Bourbon Turf Classic Stakes

Results of the 11th race at Churchill Downs on Saturday:

• Program Trading
• Naval Power

Kentucky Derby on NBC

On Saturday, NBC Sports and Churchill Downs announced an extension on their broadcasting partnership through 2032.

“As we celebrate the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs is proud to extend the relationship with NBC Sports,” Churchill Downs CEO Bill Carstanjen said in a statement. “As our media partner for the last 23 years, NBC has artfully captured the most exciting two minutes in sports and the spectacle of the senses that surrounds it.”

Forever Young looks to give Japan first Kentucky Derby win 

It’s a small sample size, but Japan-breds are 0-for-4 at the Kentucky Derby since 2019, with Master Fencer (2019) and Derma Sotogake (2023) sharing the best finishes at sixth place. 

Forever Young  carries Japan’s hopes this year, and many believe the undefeated colt gives the country its best chance ever in the Kentucky Derby . -- Jason Frakes, Louisville Courier Journal  

Looking ahead to a superstar sprinter this summer

NBC used its Derby Day coverage to promote another big event, the Summer Olympics in Paris.

World champion sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson appeared in a spot with Cardi B talking about the Olympics, which begin July 26. Richardson is expected to be a medal contender in the women’s 100 meters, an event she won at last summer’s world championships in Budapest. At worlds, Richardson also won gold in the women’s 4x100 relay and bronze in the 200.

Saturday she told Cardi B to come to Paris to watch her sprint for Olympic gold.

“I will come just for you … and shopping,” Cardi B said. 

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