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20 Public Speaking Jokes to Spice Up Your Presentation

Public speaking can be a nerve-wracking activity for many of us, but we can’t deny that a little laughter can help ease some of the tension. Whether you’re giving a presentation in front of a large conference audience or just talking to your coworkers, having a few jokes ready to lighten up the conversation can help you communicate your points in a more engaging way. Therefore, I’m here to share with you my top 20 public speaking jokes so you can add a pinch of humor to your next presentation. From the classic knock-knock jokes to some cheeky puns, let me help you take your humor game to the next level. Let the laughter begin!

What is Joke Telling in Presentations?

Joke telling, for the purpose of livening up a presentation or spicing up a speech, is an art form. Jokes and punchlines bring levity to a presentation, but if done incorrectly can fall flat or worse, offend. On one hand, when used appropriately, jokes can provide comedic relief that allows the audience to connect with the speaker and adjusts the mood from serious to positive. On the other hand, it can be extremely risky because humor is subjective to individual taste and when words are spoken publicly any misinterpretations can be difficult to remedy. Therefore, it is essential to consider an audience’s sense of humor and align it with humour appropriate for the subject matter. The art of crafting punchlines requires skillful delivery as every joke setup requires a payoff they will find funny. It is all about timing. Punchlines should be delivered with clarity, confidence , and conviction by using subtle vocal intonation such as raising or lowering of one’s voice at the right moment. Knowing when to pause before or after makes all the difference in how funny a punchline will be received by an audience. With practice, anyone can become an expert joke-teller that adds comic relief to their presentations.

The Art of Crafting Punchlines

Crafting punchlines that effectively punctuate your presentation can be an effective way to add humor and insight into a topic. Crafting and delivering a well balanced joke are essential components of comedic timing and ensures that the audience is engaged when listening to you. To craft the perfect punchline, you must consider two important aspects of writing: timing and structure. When it comes to timing, the punchline should come in at the exact moment when your audience thought you had finished talking. You must focus on a consistent rhythm, as this will let your audience know what kind of impression you’re trying to make, allowing them to anticipate the punchline and find it hilarious. Additionally, the structure of your punchline has a great effect on its delivery. When constructing a joke, you need to make sure that each component makes sense and serves its function in the overall joke. A single misspoken word or poorly placed pause can easily disrupt an otherwise good joke. Additionally, remember to keep things short and sweet; often, overly wordy jokes lack impact due to all the fluff around them. The art of crafting punchlines has both technical and artistic components, as any good comedian knows that proper timings and structuring is essential for making a joke successful. Next, we will dive into the techniques behind telling jokes that really get laughs from an audience.

Here are the first 10 public speaking jokes:

• “I used to be afraid of public speaking… but then I realized everyone in the audience is just as scared as I am.”
• They say that public speaking is one of people’s greatest fears.. . which is why at a funeral, most people would rather be in the casket than giving the eulogy.”
• “Why did the public speaker get a standing ovation? Because he finally stopped talking.”
• Public speaking tip: Start with a joke to break the ice… or in my case, break the tension.”
• “I’m not saying I’m a great public speaker, but I do have a black belt in awkward pauses.”
• I always prepare for public speaking by practicing in front of a mirror… it’s the only way I can make eye contact with someone who won’t judge me.
• “They say that the key to public speaking is to imagine the audience in their underwear… but I tried it once and it just made things even more awkward.”
• “I’ve been told that I have a face for radio and a voice for silent movies… but here I am, giving a public speech.”
• “Public speaking is a lot like driving a car… you need to keep your eyes on the road and avoid hitting any potholes.”
• “Why did the public speaker wear a wig and a fake mustache? To deliver a convincing TED talk.”

The Techniques Behind Telling Jokes

The technique behind telling jokes is an important element of making sure the audience finds the joke funny. Many people make the mistake of thinking that if they are funny, then the audience will find their jokes funny as well. However, humor is subjective, and what might sound funny to one person can fall flat for others. Therefore, it’s important to understand the different techniques behind telling jokes so that your comedy is well-received by everyone. To begin, it’s essential to be aware of timing when delivering a joke . A joke too early in your presentation may end up taking away from more important points you need to make while a joke too late after those points might be forgotten. Also think about how quickly you deliver the punchline of your joke. If it’s delivered too quickly, or abruptly, your audience may be caught off guard and miss its effectiveness. Another technique to consider is understanding how to structure your delivery . This includes things like varying your loudness and inflection when setting up the joke versus delivering the punch line; this will help emphasize the element of surprise for those listening and make them laugh even more. Additionally, consider opting for shorter jokes with fewer words but still finding creative ways to set them up so that they connect with your overall point and tie into something relevant for the group you are speaking too; this will help get audiences even more engaged with what you have to say. Ultimately, there is no right or wrong way when it comes to telling jokes in a public speaking setting; each speaker should find what works best for their personal style while also considering lessons they have learned from practice runs or experience speaking at other events. While some speakers may prefer longer jokes while others opt for shorter ones – knowing these key elements of effective comedy can ensure everyone in attendance gets a good laugh before going back to taking notes on the presentation. With these techniques in mind, let’s turn our focus towards exploring “The Benefits of Public Speaking Jokes.

The Benefits of Public Speaking Jokes

The purpose of public speaking jokes are not just for comedy. While at face value, they do lighten the mood and provide immediate entertainment , underlying benefits to jokes during a presentation can have longer-term impacts that assist in better engaging an audience. Contextualized properly within the narrative of a presentation, insights from resulting laughter lead to increased engagement while also paving the way to more meaningful conversations. The use of humor has been proven to break barriers and stigma between speaker and audience—straight away gaining trust and respect. Jokes also help keep your material fresh; constantly reminding listeners why they stay tuned to your presentation. Furthermore, telling a joke can help defuse negative situations caused by dissention or distractions stemming from the audience. On the other hand, it is important to note that with any comedic element used in presentations, there is risk involved. Poorly delivered punchlines or misappropriated humor can turn off the audience and even cause harm to the topic being discussed—rapidly souring the atmosphere of any presentation. It is therefore important for presenters to carefully consider their use of humor as it conveys message as strong as any technical fact or figure. By juggling these opposing issues, public speaking jokes can enhance presentations by breaking down boundaries between speaker and audience, delivering content within refreshment contexts, uniting fragmented audiences under collective laughter and providing power through authentically delivered messages. As such, how telling jokes enhances presentations is an element worth further consideration.

How Telling Jokes Enhances Presentations

It’s no secret that humor has a practical place in the art of public speaking . Used correctly, jokes can enhance the experience of your presentation and create a more memorable atmosphere for you and your audience. Here are a few reasons why laughing is your best bet when it comes to delivering a successful address. One powerful advantage of using jokes in your speeches is that well-crafted humor can help keep your audience engaged . A joke serves as an emotional hook for attendees and helps keep them interested in what you’re saying by capturing their attention and establishing a connection with them. Furthermore, many people are much more likely to remember funny stories, which can help them recall key concepts from your speech even after it’s over. Another reason to keep things light-hearted is that humor helps reduce performance anxiety by lightening the mood before you reach the podium. Writers such as Richard Harris and Andrew Tarvin would agree that one of the most difficult aspects of public speaking is simply getting up on stage, but telling a joke can break the tension and make both you and your audience feel more comfortable in the moment. Similarly, laughter may also help people relax while they listen, resulting in greater focus and understanding. On the other hand, there is some debate over whether every speech should contain jokes. While there’s no denying that humor can improve overall interest in a presentation, there’s also always the risk that a joke may be perceived as too off-color or inappropriate for a formal environment . As mentioned above, public speakers must be mindful about their level of wit when addressing an audience; This means that tasteful joke selection is paramount if you want to avoid any potential problems with colleagues or viewers. In conclusion, incorporating humorous remarks into your speeches may help boost engagement levels, set an enjoyable tone, and combat unease among audiences. With these strategies in mind, let’s move on to learn some tips and tricks on how to add genuine levity to presentations.

Here are 10 more public speaking jokes:

• “I used to be a public speaker for a living… but I quit because the audience never laughed at my jokes.”
• “Public speaking is like skydiving… it’s terrifying at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a real rush.”
• “What do you call a public speaker who can’t stop talking? A filibuster.”
• “Why did the public speaker cross the road? To get to the other side of the podium.”
• “Public speaking is a great way to face your fears… unless your fear is public speaking, then you’re out of luck.”
• “I’m not a great public speaker, but I’m really good at pretending I know what I’m talking about.”
• “Why did the public speaker bring a pillow to his speech? So he could rest his case.”
• “Public speaking is a lot like cooking… it takes a lot of preparation and the end result may not always be what you hoped for.”
• “I’m not nervous about public speaking… I’m just practicing my interpretive dance moves.”
• “Why did the public speaker keep checking his watch? Because he had a lot of time to kill.”

Humor Tips and Tricks

Humor is an essential part of a successful public speaking presentation. Not only does it help lighten the mood and liven up the atmosphere in the room, but it also helps to create a more engaging and memorable presentation . While there is no one-size-fits-all formula for humor, there are some tips and tricks that can help you inject humor into your presentation. The most important tip for adding humor is to be authentic. If your audience can tell that you’re not comfortable telling jokes, or having a sense of humor, they will likely not respond well. Instead, focus on being yourself while you’re presenting and look for subtle opportunities to lighten the mood by using self-deprecating humor or referencing your own experiences or observations. You don’t need to be a stand-up comic in order to add wit and charm to your talk, just speak genuinely and authentically with a lighthearted air. Another tip for injecting humor into your talk is to keep the tone appropriate. Make sure that your jokes are appropriate for the occasion; if you’re speaking at an event with children present, it’s probably best to avoid using any language that might be considered inappropriate or racy. Similarly, don’t rely heavily on stereotypes or stereotype jokes; these types of jokes may come across as offensive or inappropriate. Finally, be mindful of cultural differences and sensitivities; even if a joke works well elsewhere, there might be nuances specific to your audience that could cause offense. Finally, remember the importance of timing when invoking humor in public speaking presentations. Jokes rarely work if they are delivered too slowly or quickly; instead, find ways to keep your delivery natural by practicing delivering your presentation until you have it down pat with all the associated intonations for when the joke should occur. Keeping this timing intact also ensures that any potentially funny moments will not get lost as people laugh at prior jokes or stories in your talk . Ultimately, while humor can make any public speaking presentation more enjoyable and engaging , it should never take away from the overall message of your talk – jokes should always supplement rather than overshadow your main points. When used appropriately and authentically, humor can help create a lasting impression on the audience long after your presentation has ended . By crafting hilarious stories and punchlines to use throughout their presentations, speakers can successfully use humor as an effective tool for delivering their message effectively. In the next section we will discuss taking these tips into account when crafting funny stories and punchlines that invite laughter from both young and old audiences alike.

Crucial Highlights

Humor can be a great way to add charm and wit to a public speaking presentation. However, it is important that the tone of humor is appropriate for the occasion and audience. Additionally, speakers should be mindful of cultural differences and sensitivities when using humor. Furthermore, timing when delivering jokes is crucial; it is important to know when to deliver the punchline for maximum comedic impact. Lastly, remember that humorous anecdotes should supplement rather than overshadow the overall message of a talk.

Crafting Funny Stories and Punchlines

Crafting humorous stories and punchlines is an art form. Not all presenters are naturally funny, but there are ways to increase your comedic prowess. On one hand, crafting your own jokes allows for originality and customization for your specific audience and presentation. This can help increase your performance’s impact as a personal touch can be more memorable to listeners than generic jokes. Creating unique content allows you the opportunity to practice joke-telling in a way that maximizes impact and leaves your listeners laughing and engaged. On the other hand, using prepared jokes carries its own benefits. This can help reduce any performance nerves as they have been tried and tested by other comedians. Additionally, if you are new to presentation design or don’t consider yourself too funny, it can provide a safety net of ready-made material. Drawing on proven jokes can insure that even if your audience isn’t amazed, you can be confident that they will at least laugh at the stories or punchlines you selected. Both methods of comedy-creation carry their own pros and cons; ultimately it depends on the presenter’s comfort level with delivering joke material. Whether you choose to create unique content from scratch or use existing jokes, adding humor should never distract from the success of your presentation as a whole. With careful consideration for the right timing and attitude, humor can be a powerful tool in capturing an audience’s attention. Next we’ll discuss how to find the right jokes for your audience.

How to Find the Right Jokes for Your Audience

Finding the right jokes to throw into your presentation is an essential part of public speaking, but it’s also an area that can be tricky to navigate without experience. When selecting jokes and other humorous elements, there are a few points to keep in mind. First, you want the jokes to stay true to your subject matter. It can help if you know a lot about your topic, as this will make it easier for you to draw up relevant jokes that may even reference specific points in the presentation. However, some speakers take a different approach and use jokes as an opportunity to create an interesting distraction from the main point. There are benefits and drawbacks to both approaches; if you choose the latter, make sure not to cheapen your message or distract too much from the main idea of your talk. Second, consider the type of audience you’re addressing. Are they well-versed in your subject matter? Will they appreciate obscure references or would something more overt be better? And most importantly, what kind of comedic style do they prefer? A joke that works well with one group might come off as offensive or awkward with another. You don’t want undecided voters at a political debate out of fear of making the wrong joke! Finally, take into consideration how often you introduce humor into your speech . Many presentations begin amicably enough with some appropriate levity, but overdoing it can be counter-productive — no one wants a speech that’s all laughs and no information! Use humor in moderation so it can have its intended effect when it appears. When selecting jokes and humorous elements for your speech, be mindful of the content and context while keeping an eye on pacing and frequency.

Final Tips for Becoming a Jokester

As a public speaker, you can use humor to engage your audience and spice up any presentation. To capitalize on this, you’ll need to become a jokester – someone who can insert funny remarks and witty one-liners on the fly. It requires finesse, though, so to help you out here are some tips for becoming a jokester: First, make sure you know your audience . Crafting the perfect joke is not much good if it falls flat with an unappreciative audience or worse yet, offends them in any way. Take time to get to know those you will be addressing during your presentation and use that knowledge to tailor your delivery. Second, strive for authenticity. Simple jokes may get the job done momentarily but don’t rely on them too often. Just like public speaking itself, jokes should stem from personal experiences and insights since that’s usually what resonates most with listeners. This can take practice though; prepare yourself by writing down ideas or potential topics that you may want to cover in advance of speaking. Third, pay attention to timing. When telling a joke (or even making a quip) timing is everything so using natural pauses throughout your talk can really help enhance the humor element within a presentation. One thing to keep in mind is that silence is awkward so be aware when it goes on for too long as it can make the joke lose its humor and effectiveness. Finally, remember that humor should be used as seasoning – sprinkle a few lighthearted references throughout your talk but don’t overdo it. Although humorous moments can create powerful connections with your audience and offer something for them to remember about your speech days later, too much joking can have adverse effects if handled improperly. There are many strategies outlined above that can help turn any public speaker into a jokester. But before reaching the conclusion of this article there is one more step to consider – deciding how far is too far when introducing comedic moments into serious talks…

In conclusion, adding public speaking jokes while giving a presentation can help to entertain the audience and provide lighthearted moments that help to keep them engaged throughout the entire presentation. However, it is important to be aware of the risks of using such jokes, like potentially offending members of the audience or not being well-received. Ultimately, if used appropriately, public speaking jokes are an excellent way to make a presentation more entertaining and enjoyable for everyone involved. It is necessary to take into consideration who your audience is when considering what kind of jokes you should use. If you are giving a presentation primarily to younger people, then it may be more appropriate to use more modern references or “pop culture” humor than if presenting to a room full of older people. Additionally, carefully researching the topic of your presentation beforehand and using any relevant information in your jokes can really help them land with the crowd. Ultimately, humor can be used as a powerful tool in a presentation and can make people more engaged in what you have to say. It is important for presenters to be self-aware about their capabilities as well as their audience in order to ensure that their jokes will receive positive responses. By following these guidelines and abiding by professional etiquette , speakers can use public speaking jokes effectively and boost their presentations’ impact on an audience.

Common Questions Explained

What are some topics that are off-limits for public speaking jokes.

Some topics that are off-limits for public speaking jokes include topics related to race or ethnicity, religion, politics, gender or sexual orientation, disability, and illness. Using jokes about these topics can cause deep offense and hurt the audiences’ feelings. Additionally, any topic that could potentially be considered offensive or insensitive should be avoided. Jokes about controversial topics have the potential to spark heated debates and detract from the main point of your presentation. Additionally, jokes about violence, death, war and crime are also not appropriate for public speaking. It is important to remember that humor should always remain respectful as well as appropriate to the current audience when using jokes in public speaking. Keeping these ideas in mind will help to ensure that your audience enjoys the presentation without being offended by it.

How can I use jokes to break the ice for a public speaking event?

Using jokes to break the ice at a public speaking event can be an effective way to win over your audience and set the stage for a positive atmosphere. Jokes are an excellent conversation starter and can help alleviate the stress of a live performance. The key is to choose jokes that are universally funny and appropriate for all ages. This means avoiding jokes that might be offensive or tasteless, as these can backfire and potentially leave the audience feeling uncomfortable. Pick jokes that relate to your topic in some way and weave them into your presentation style in such a way that they feel natural to hear. Remember, the goal is to make people laugh, not interfere with their concentration on what you’re saying. Laughter is contagious and will help create an enjoyable atmosphere for your entire presentation!

What are some tips for using humor when public speaking?

When using humor when public speaking, the following tips can help you create an engaging and successful presentation: 1. Know your audience: Before adding any jokes to your speech, make sure you know your audience and their sense of humor. This will help ensure that your jokes are appropriate and not offensive to anyone in the room. 2. Choose appropriate material: Make sure the jokes or humorous stories you select are relevant to the topic of your presentation, as this will further engage your audience. Avoid inappropriate or off-color humor too. 3. Practice: Timing is key when it comes to humorous speaking, so practice each joke until you have it down before delivering it in front of an audience. Don’t overdo it either—jokes should be used sparingly with other content to keep the focus on the main message of your presentation. 4. Tell the truth: An effective way to use humor is to tell a personal story about a funny experience you once had related to the topic of your presentation. People appreciate honesty and genuine self-deprecating stories are often more endearing than fabricated ones. 5. Relax: One final tip for using humor when public speaking is to remain relaxed throughout your presentation and trust in yourself—your delivery and timing will naturally become better with practice, so don’t be afraid to dig a little deeper into your own experiences for material.

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• Presentations
• Public Speaking

How to Make a Presentation More Humorous (With 7 Top Tips From Experts)

Making your audience laugh is a good way to get them fully engaged with your presentation.

Using humor in business presentations can make the difference.

Listening to your business presentation shouldn't be like visiting a comedy club. But a laugh here and there can help your listeners take in relevant information.

If you want to give your presentations some extra appeal, it's important use humor the right way. 

In this guide, I'll share techniques and expert tips on how to make a presentation humorous and fun. You'll learn how to give a funny presentation that works.

Adding Humor to Presentations: Why Does It Matter?

Many speakers hesitate to create a funny PowerPoint or add humor to a speech.

The hesitation is easy to understand. They just don't know how to be humorous in a speech.

Here are three reasons why using humor in presentations is a good idea:

• Adding humor to presentations  holds your audience's attention. It creates a bond with them . If they're laughing with you then they're connected. That's key when you want your presentation to be successful.
• Using humor also makes your presentation more memorable . An oft-quoted saying is that people may forget your exact words, but they won't forget how you make them feel. Adding humor to presentations generates the right kind of feelings in your listeners. Plus, making presentations fun reinforces key points and leads to a more interesting presentation. 
• There's one more benefit for those wanting to do lots of public speaking. Using humor in business presentations will give a good impression of you as a speaker . That can help you win future speaking engagements. You'll also get more traffic for any presentations you post online.

Find some expert tips about public speaking and business presentations in these tutorials:

Tips on Using Humor in Presentations

Ready to dive into the nitty-gritty of using humor in presentations?

Here are some tips on how to give a funny presentation to keep your audience laughing:

1. Tell a Joke Near the Start

Are you wondering how to make a PowerPoint presentation fun for the audience? Many professional speakers believe it's good practice to tell a joke at the beginning of your presentation.

Professional presenter James Altucher  says:

"People need to laugh within the first 30 seconds or else you’re going back to your cubicle at the pencil factory and they will never remember you." 

While this is good advice, remember to read the room.

Sometimes you need to let your audience warm up for a few minutes before hitting them with something humorous. Otherwise it might fall flat and leave your audience less interested than before.

Heidi Cohen , Chief Content Officer, Actionable Marketing Guide, says:

"...humor depends on context and shared culture. As a result, it may not translate to a specific topic or audience. Even top comics work through many iterations of their routines and practice them before they know what works. 

Instead of using humor, the real challenge for professional presentations is capturing and holding your audience’s attention or you’ve lost them to their devices." 

So, with all the distractions out there, what's a presenter to do? Cohen has a technique to try:

"[This] ...requires building smaller arcs into your larger over-arching presentation story. Think of each point as having its own problem, action and result. By doing this, you keep listeners engaged. 

Further, after you’ve outlined the presentation, block out how you will take advantage of the stage and what changes you’ll make for each point."

2.  Use an Anecdote 

Not everyone has a prebuilt cache of jokes to put in a speech. If telling jokes isn't your thing, consider using a humorous anecdote. Most people relate to a funny story. If it's relevant, it can really make the subject of your presentation more interesting. 

Andy Crestodina , Cofounder of Orbit Media and seasoned content marketing speaker, says: 

"Telling tiny stories, especially in the middle of the presentation, keeps the presentation alive. Without them, the audience struggles."

Crestodina has a great tip to capture the audience's attention in the middle of a presentation. Best of all, it's something anyone can try.

"Throw in a very brief story, supported with a visual, ideally funny or personal, during the middle of the presentation. It doesn’t even need a smooth segue. The point is to break it up. Plot twists and joke slides."

For example, Crestodina tells a story about kids and yogurt:

“I need my free time. I’ve got two little kids and I make them these yogurt popsicles from frozen mangoes and yogurt. They love them, but look how messy they are.”

"...pause for laughter. Resume presentation to newly awakened, reconnected audience."

3. Don't Be Afraid to Laugh at Yourself

Speaking of how to be humorous in a speech, don't be afraid to laugh at yourself.  Nancy Marshall, the PR Maven , says: 

"Subliminally, everyone in the audience is feeling nervous for you as a speaker when you are the one up in front of the group. Being self-deprecating is a good way to help everyone in the audience, and to help yourself relax and settle in. Saying something like, “Yes, I have had my business for 30 years. Obviously I started it when I was two.” A statement like that can break the ice and help everyone be more present."

Self-deprecating humor is very relatable. People appreciate that you're willing to make yourself a little vulnerable. Instantly, that transforms you, in their perception, from a distant expert to a person like them. That makes them more likely to pay attention to the rest of the presentation. 

At the start of her commencement speech for Harvard, J.K.Rowling alludes to the natural fear of giving a speech on a big stage, and her very human reaction to it:

"The first thing I would like to say is thank you. Not only has Harvard given me an extraordinary honor, but the weeks of fear and nausea I have endured at the thought of giving this commencement address have made me lose weight. A win-win situation. Now all I have to do is take deep breaths, squint at the red banners, and convince myself that I am at the world's largest Gryffindor reunion."

Rowling goes on with the commencement address, adding more bits of humor throughout the presentation.

4. Tailor Humor to Your Audience

When thinking about funny PowerPoint presentations ideas, tailor anecdotes and jokes to your audience.

Humor works best when it's relevant. Don't worry. That still leaves plenty of scope for colorful stories. In the example below, Mark Sanborn uses everyday experiences to give business lessons, while keeping the audience engaged and laughing:

Here's how Social Media Consultant, Strategist and Speaker Andrea Vahl uses humor in presentations:

"I use humor in presentations in a few different ways.  First of all, I have humor in the opening section of my presentation when I talk about "my story" and background that is more universally appealing.  I use a combination of funny images and unexpected twists to give my biography in a unique way.  

Then it does also help to tailor the humor to your audience by finding out some of the buzz words they use or pain points that they often run into so you can address those with quick quips or images in slides.  Find out if the organization has an "inside joke" that you can bring into your presentation also."

Vahl suggests turning to the weird or unusual to add humor to a presentation. 

"To brainstorm about how to make something funny you can ask yourself, "What is weird about this?" or "What could be ridiculous about this?" and just write ideas without judgement.  Then see how you can work those ideas into your presentation."

5. Include a Funny Quote or Image 

Memes aren't just for social media. They can also make your presentations easier to access. If you can find a funny image or quote related to your presentation people will remember it for two reasons:

• because it's visual
• because it made them laugh 

In the video below, Tim Urban uses humorous drawings to illustrate how his mind works: 

6. Use Sound Effects 

Using a sound at the right time can stop your audience's attention from wandering. Our attention spans are short. 

So, when a growling bear pops up just over seven minutes into Morgan Spurlock's  TED talk, it instantly grabbed his listeners' attention. If I'd been in that audience, I'd have been doubly attentive, waiting to see what would happen next.

7. Use Analogies and Contrast

Another tip when thinking about how to add humor to a presentation  is to use techniques like contrast, surprise, tension and analogies. Some of the examples shared earlier illustrate how surprise works to get attention.

Here's an example of an analogy being used in a funny PowerPoint. In an SEO presentation, a speaker comments that the best place to hide a body is the second page of Google search results. The speaker just used humor to make an unforgettable point about the importance of appearing on the first page of search results.

Author, speaker, and comedian Andrew Tarvin  points out in Forbes that:

"Humor doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to laugh. Humor is something that is comic, absurd or incongruous that causes amusement. Most marketing campaigns can benefit by adding levity. But if your brand is very serious inherently, it may not be appropriate."

What to Look Out for When Making Presentations Fun

Using humor is a great technique for improving your presentations. Here are a few more tips to help you get it right when thinking about how to write a funny speech:

1. Don't Try Too Hard 

First, you're not your favorite stand-up comedian. So, don't try too hard. The audience will relate to you better if you're yourself. If you combine that with telling stories they can relate to, so much the better.

2. Be Mindful of Diversity 

Know that humor doesn't always translate. So, if you're speaking or presenting to a diverse audience, be careful about what you use as humor. Jokes that stigmatize a particular gender or ethnicity aren't appropriate. Also, you'll want to do some research in advance to see if there are any hot buttons you need to avoid.

To learn more about the importance of diversity in the workplace, study these tutorials:

3. Read the Room 

Related to that, read the room so you know if a particular joke is appropriate.

If your big number falls flat, don't be afraid to change direction. Sometimes simply saying that you changed your mind about telling a joke can win your audience over. 

4. If People Are Laughing, Let Them Finish 

Don't interrupt the laughter. If you've told a joke and it's got people laughing, let your audience enjoy the moment. They'll be much more kindly disposed to you by the end of that process.

Learn More About Presentations

Still need more tips on how to make a presentation fun?

Learn more about using PowerPoint in our ultimate guide or check out the resources below: 

How to Get Started With Funny PowerPoint Presentations

When thinking about how to make a boring presentation fun, a good starting point is to choose the right template. Using presentation templates offers several advantages over a DIY approach.

Premium presentation  templates make presentation creation quick and easy. There's no need to fiddle around with small details. Your presentation will also  have a professional appearance , thanks to a harmonious design.

If you're looking for the perfect presentation template for your next presentation, Envato Elements has an offer you won't want to miss.  Download as many  PowerPoint presentation templates  as you want, all for one low price. 

To learn more about using presentations in business check out our ebook,  The Complete Guide to Making Great Business Presentations .

Use PowerPoint Templates for Your Funny Presentation

Looking for the perfect PowerPoint template for your next humorous presentation?

Check out these fun and cool templates:

Get Started With Making Presentations Fun Today

As you've seen, using humor and presentations is a great tool for any presenter, if you do it right. Pay attention to the cues that let you know when humor is working (and when it isn't) and you'll be able to use this tool effectively. 

Remember, if you're looking for a great way to make your presentation lively, then check out the humorous presentation templates on Envato Elements.

Editorial Note: This content was originally published in 2020. We're sharing it again because our editors have determined that this information is still accurate and relevant.

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  Presentation Training Institute

  A division of bold new directions training, humor: how to use it effectively in presentations.

  Humor can be an incredibly powerful tool when it comes to public speaking. The moment an audience laughs with you, they connect with you. When you incorporate humor into a presentation, it makes you real, authentic, and relatable to the audience. It shows that you are confident enough to laugh and it can lighten up the mood of the room. It can also be one of the most effective ways to make your presentation memorable. Incorporating humor doesn’t require you to be a seasoned comedian or a naturally funny person. There are plenty of ways that anyone can use humor in their presentation.

  In order for presentation humor to be effective, you have to plan for it. Sure, there may be times when you can ad-lib and or use humor to recover from a mishap, but it should usually be executed deliberately. Here are a few different ways you can add humor to your presentation:

  Personal anecdotes: The easiest (and usually the most effective) way to infuse humor is to poke a little fun at yourself. You can tell personal stories about something funny that happened to you, as this is a great way to relate to your audience. Furthermore, since you experienced it yourself, it becomes easier to retell the story. 

  Funny quotes: Another idea is to find a funny quote that relates to your topic and use it at an appropriate time during your speech.

  Funny analogy: Funny analogies are great because not only will they get a laugh, but they also help to illustrate your point. 

  Tell Stories: You can also tell humorous stories that may not be personal, but still relate to your topic. Storytelling is a great communication tool, and telling a humorous story is a great way to engage your audience and make your presentation more memorable. 

  Tips to remember when using humor:

  Humor is a great way to break the ice, lighten the mood, captivate your listeners, and make your presentation more interesting, but that doesn’t mean you have to be a comedian. Use humor sparingly, as a few laughs throughout the presentation is really all you need. 

  Be mindful of your audience when telling jokes. You never want to say something that might insult, offend, or make fun of members of your audience. Think very carefully about whether or not your humor will come across as sexist, prejudicial, or offensive.

  Remember that humor is very cultural and what works in one country may not work in another. Again, consider your audience and refrain from slang, references, or  phrases that other cultures might not understand. 

  

  Humor in Presentations: How to Engage Your Audience

  Most presentations are about sharing information and facts with an audience. Needless to say, that can get dull, dry and boring pretty quickly. Humor is a great way to spice up your presentation and keep your audience entertained and engaged.

  With the right amount of humor at the right times, you’ll not only keep your audience happy, but increase their interest in your topic, too . In this article, we’ll tell you how to use humor in your presentation.

  

  What exactly is humor and what can it bring to presentations?

  In short, humor (lat. umor= liquid; fluid; in ancient times one of the four fluids of the body that were thought to determine a person’s temperament and features) is the ability to evoke laughter. People who make others laugh are often described as humorous.

  No matter how dry a topic may be, your audience wants a certain amount of entertainment. When used the right way, so-called infotainment (a mix of entertainment and expertise) can earn you extra points with your audience.

  Humorous presentations aren’t about acting the clown  

  Humor and gravitas don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Using humor doesn’t mean that you’ll come across as less credible. However, it’s important to be authentic. A humorous presentation isn’t about being as funny as possible or pretending to be funny, but about presenting your personal sense of humor appropriately.

  Especially during the longest part of a presentation – the main part – humor can really help. There’s no need for an audience to be roaring with laughter; a simple smile will show they’re enjoying themselves.

  Know your audience to best use humor in your presentations

  

  Knowing your audience is key to using humor effectively in presentations. After all different factors, such as social status and occupation, influence a person’s sense of humor.

  Sometimes understanding certain jokes requires a specific vocabulary or knowledge, which not all audiences can be expected to have. To make sure your audience understands your humor, it can help to ask yourself who your audience is before you present.

  Avoid putting your foot in your mouth with inappropriate jokes by think about what style of humor works best for the industry you’re presenting in. Also, consider the right moments to add a humorous remark or anecdote in your presentation.

  How to add humor to presentations

  

  The most important quality which will help you with humor in presentations is authenticity. So, what does that mean? Simply put, authenticity means staying true to your own personality, values and spirit, regardless of the situation you’re in. Being authentic will go a long way to finding the right humor for your presentations.

  Analogies, such as comparisons and metaphors, are ideal for simplifying and explaining complex relationships. You can use them to illustrate content in a fun way and at the same time, show your audience that you know your stuff.

  Using language as your means to an end can also be effective . Double-entendres are a great way to pepper your presentation with some humor. A double-entendre is like a pun and comes from French, meaning double understanding . “Being in debt attracts a lot of interest from bankers” and “Effective publicity in the bicycle industry depends on having a good spokesperson” are two examples of double-entendres. Although pretty corny, they can illicit more than as few chuckles from an audience.

  Tell stories and use rhymes to reach your audience

  Telling stories of your own experiences can help you engage your audience on an emotional level. When you add a little humor to bring a story to life, your audience will relate to it more than they would to dry information.

  A rhyme also has a better chance of being remembered by your audience. Not only are rhymes easy to remember but with the right touch of humor, they also become amusing. A rhyme makes it easier to remember and internalize important information.

  You audience shouldn’t be able to see a pun or a joke coming from a mile away. Make sure there is an element of surprise to your humor. Catching your audience a little bit off guard is a great way to get them laughing and smiling.

  Avoid these mistakes when using humor in presentations

  Although many jokes and quips are funny, it’s imperative that your humor doesn’t attack or offend anyone during presentations. No matter what your intention, avoid any comments or jokes that may come off as sexist, racist, political or discriminatory in any other way.

  Keep in mind that not everyone in the audience will share your views, so avoid any comment that may appear to discriminate against certain groups.

  Incorporate a good dose of humor into your presentations

  Humor can make any presentation more interesting and animated. The key is not to turn your presentation into a comedy show, but to inject an appropriate amount of humor into the right places.

  You can find more tips for humor in presentations here .

  If you have any questions about our blog or general questions about PowerPoint and presentations, feel free to contact us at [email protected] . We’d be happy to help.

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  7 Tips For Adding Humor to a Presentation

  • August 15, 2023
  • Kevin Lerner
  

  If you’re looking to capture the heart and soul of your audience and make your presentation stand out from the others, a little humor can add a lot of emotion and dimension to your content and delivery. Here are 7 Tips for adding humor to a presentation…

  Adding humor to a presentation is generally easy.  Simply find a section of your presentation that’s dry and monotonous and use a “delivery device” (from earlier) that with strengthen your presentation.  Try a brief and relevant comment or story. 

  You don’t need to be a comedian to make your audience laugh…and they don’t even need to laugh for your humor to be effective.  Just take your talk lightly for a moment, and just be you.  Even if you’re making fun of yourself with a self-deprecating joke, you’ll bring a level of authenticity to your presentation that will help unite and connect.

  Here are some overall tips for using humor in a presentation:

  Use humor to inspire, unite, and motivate.

  Humor isn’t just making your audience laugh.  It can serve to inspire, unite, and motivate.  You’re not just there to talk, but to share your perspective – amplified by humor – about your subject and to help them understand and act on it.  For example, if you’re talking about getting audience members trained on new software and they feel some concern and need motivation, try a short one-liner like, “Do not underestimate your abilities. That is your boss’s job.” Don’t just look at yourself as a Subject Matter Expert….but as a motivational leader.

  Leave people with a positive feeling

  Business presentations can sometimes be critical and divisive.  Humor has the ability to deflect criticism and diffuse a negative tone by uniting people with lightness.  Humor in business presentations can help bridge gaps of uncertainty and negativity.  Humor has a time and a place in business presentations.  Try not to deflect the seriousness of a heavy topic with a silly joke or trivial response.  But if you feel it’s appropriate, aim to lift the spirits of your audience with a little laughter.  Humor in presentations – at the right time and place – can help people feel a little more positive with an underlying message of, “things might be seriously sour, but we’re going to get through together with a smile.”

  Transition from one topic to another with Humor

  Humor can serve as a terrific transition from one section / topic to another and set the foundation for the next portion of your presentation.  Nobody wants to hear a speaker talk continuously about a boring topic.  A light funny story or comment helps buttress the key sections and topics in your presentation, and just like a revitalizing breath – gives your audience a mental break. 

  Use humor to reduce nervousness

  If you’re nervous about delivering your presentation, humor can help.  Laughter calms nerves and releases hormones that can help you to relax while building a bond between you and your audience.  View your audience as friends rather than critical colleagues.  Look them in the eyes, relax, smile, and share your message with humor. 

  Deliver humor with humility and avoid arrogance

  A presentation with humor should build a bond between you and your audience.  Aim to deliver any presentation with a sense of humility.  You’re not sharing a joke to raise your ego, but to connect with your audience through a shared human experience.  Avoid arrogance and ego-fueled humor.  Comments and jokes that are critical of others or make people laugh at the expense of someone else can be divisive and affect the impact of your overall presentation.

  Smile and laugh with your audience

  Laughter is contagious.  Don’t just share your joke and wait for your audience to laugh.  In-person or virtually, get into the act and smile and laugh with them.  Your unspoken cues of smiles and laughter will drive a two-way connection to deliver laughter and an added dimension of connection to your presentation.

  Memorize and practice your funny stuff

  Presenting humor and laughing matter to an audience is a delicate art of quality content and careful delivery.  Although you can extemporaneously deliver the core of your presentation, it’s better to memorize your humorous content and practice its delivery.  Great material often sounds impromptu, but it is rarely so.  By rehearsing your funny-stuff, you can refine the content, feel more comfortable with it, and determine whether it’s appropriate for your audience.  Practice makes perfect.

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  7 Ways to Use Humor in Your Presentation

  

  The recent surge in video conferencing brought on by the COVID pandemic has provided a wealth of comedic material for social media – from bosses transforming themselves into potatoes to Saturday Night Live’s take on the ubiquitous Zoom call , and many fails and awkward moments in between.

  my boss turned herself into a potato on our Microsoft teams meeting and can’t figure out how to turn the setting off, so she was just stuck like this the entire meeting pic.twitter.com/uHLgJUOsXk — Rachele with 1 L & 2 E’s but pronounced Rachel (@PettyClegg) March 30, 2020

  And the memes and tweets keep coming as the video conferencing fatigue deepens. We now even have a new emoji sticker about making video calls in your underwear.

  Humor, of course, is a great elixir to take the edge off during times of trouble or uncertainty. But it can be a high-risk, high-reward tool that needs to be deployed with care.

  Here are seven ways to wield it.

  1. Remember: You Are Not Doing Stand-up

  Funny dinner guests and the co-worker who keeps fellow office mates laughing do not earn their humorous reputations by firing off dozens of one-liners or riffing on a particular subject the way top stand-up comics do. Rather, they spot the humor that exists in everyday situations and convey that through funny conversational observations.

  It’s a formula that works well for most presentations – think humor, not jokes. Your audience is not expecting an open-mic night, but certainly will appreciate a speaker who can successfully deliver funny asides, amusing stories, wry comments, irresistible ironies, and memorable quips.

  However, being funny simply for the sake of being funny doesn’t help you. As a presenter, the humor you use should serve your message – providing context and depth to your main points. It also is an effective tool to incorporate into your opening or close . You just don’t want your audience remembering your jokes at the expense of your key message.

  Overall, the humor you use in your presentation should serve to enhance and illustrate the points you are trying to make. When used well, humor also can help you to poke fun at human foibles without sounding critical, encourage your audience to question long-standing assumptions without threatening their beliefs, and offer fresh insights into old ideas.

  In his TED talk, The Happy Secret to Better Work , psychologist and bestselling author Shawn Achor successfully employed humor throughout his talk, including his opening. He enlisted a funny anecdote (it runs from about 0:10 to 3:05) to capture his audience’s attention and bring them to the very heart of his talk. During his opening, he employs a story that many of us can relate to. He offers funny asides. And, his humorous story effectively illustrates the main theme of his speech. Here it is:

  2. Don’t knock your credibility

  Self-effacing humor is one thing. In fact, in one study , business leaders who poked fun at themselves were seen as more trustworthy and caring by their employees. But it’s a fine line between laughing at your own expense and putting a ding in your expertise. Stay away from humor that questions your credibility or downplays the topic of your talk. You also don’t want to bring attention to your weaknesses ( “I’ve never done a virtual presentation before, so good luck to us all!” ).

  3. Keep it appropriate

  In real life, the jokes cast by fictitious Dunder Mifflin regional manager Michael Scott, played by Steve Carrell in the television show “The Office,” would have been a nightmare for any real-life human resources specialist. Don’t be Michael Scott. Overall, it’s best to steer clear of edgy, off-color, political, or profane humor.

  If you are not a full-time comic, you might be stressed about finding inspiration for your humorous asides and anecdotes. Don’t worry, there is appropriate material all around you. The best material comes from everyday, real-life experiences you and the audience can relate to. Perhaps you had a funny exchange with a client, or your kid offered up a funny or ironic observation without realizing it. Maybe you want to recall an innocent blunder on your first day on the job, which wasn’t funny then but is hilarious now. Or, you saw a sign with a funny or contradictory saying. Think about material that doesn’t make you cringe.

  If you need inspiration, comedian Brian Regan has built a nearly 25-year career on funny, wry observations about life that don’t require a parental advisory.

  4. Avoid sarcasm

  Sarcastic people can indeed be funny, but it’s all in the context . Inherently, sarcasm can be difficult to interpret, given you are saying one thing but actually meaning the opposite. It’s like an inside joke. It might go over well if everyone is in on it. If not, it could lead to conflict or hurt feelings.

  5. Be confident

  You won’t have to worry about hecklers, but your audience will sense if you are hesitant about delivering your punch line. If you are funny, play to your strengths. Deliver your funny anecdote with a confidence and ease that suggests you are having as much fun telling it as you hope your audience is having by hearing it.

  If you are hesitant about sharing your own personal stories or are struggling to come up with material, you can always borrow material and pass it along – whether that’s a funny story you heard, a witty cartoon, or a famous humorous line. That fact that you know it is funny makes you humorous even if you are not the creator.

  In his TED Talk Do schools kill creativity? which has been seen by more than 66 million people, Ken Robinson , an educator and bestselling author, offers a great example of how to borrow and deliver a great story. It starts around the 3:20 mark:

  6. Not all humor has to be said

  Unless you are talking about a super-serious subject, you can probably slip a funny slide into your deck. Perhaps you plant a quote from an unlikely source. Or, you show a prediction that has since been proven to be wildly off. The idea is to offer something unexpected. That’s what jogs your audience out of its doldrums.

  7. Embrace the Silence

  The success of any funny comment during an in-person presentation is gauged by the laughter you get from your audience. I’d hazard a guess that even the canniest and most confident comic might be thrown by telling a joke to a crowd on mute. If you plan on being humorous during an online presentation, and your audience can’t be seen or heard, make sure that you won’t be thrown by this lack of laughter. Deliver the punch line and move on. It keeps it from getting awkward.

  In other words, deliver the humor as if you are not expecting a laugh. If there is a laugh, treat it as a delightful surprise. If there’s not, it doesn’t matter because the line you delivered carried a message that made it through anyway. It’s only when you pause, as if you’re expecting a laugh, and you don’t get one that it becomes problematic. That said, if you are doing an in-person talk (or you can hear your online audience), and you get those laughs, let them breathe. If you rumble into your next points, the audience may not hear you. Or, they may feel as if they should abruptly stop their laughter which defeats the purpose of using humor!

  Ready for Success

  Perhaps you are naturally funny but a little rehearsal couldn’t hurt. Test out your funny comments on a few friends or trusted colleagues. You’ll be happy to find out before you tell it if it lands as you intended. Even Jerry Seinfeld tests out his material. 

  And if you are offering a virtual presentation, make sure you have a firm grip on the technology and know how to use it . You don’t want to be the potato.

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  • using humor in your presentation
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  Should You Use Humor in Your Presentations?

  Funny presentations: they’re the ones you remember.

  One of the most powerful communication tools you can use to deliver your message is humor. It’s what makes you real. When it’s used appropriately, humor can be one of the most effective ways to make your presentation memorable. So, if you are contemplating whether to use humor in presentations, the answer is a resounding yes.

  Why do I say “when used appropriately?” Because there is such thing as too much of a good thing. Your presentation can’t be one joke after another–you’re not there to put on a stand-up comedy routine. No, when I say you have to use presentation humor appropriately, I mean you should use it to break up tension or offer a brief release from the intensity of your presentation. The average human adult can focus their attention for about five minutes, so it’s a good rule of thumb to add a humorous element to your speech at least that often. This breaks up your presentation into manageable chunks of time (in terms of your listener’s attention span) to keep your audience interested so that you have their focus for another five minutes.

  Use Humor in a Business Presentation

  Unless your business sells clown costumes (and really, even if it is), business presentations are heavy. They’re laden with numbers and facts and all sorts of jargon. It’s easy for all that serious business talk to cause a person’s attention span to drop out. That’s why using humor in a business presentation is just as important as adding it to an informative or instructional presentation.

  The best time to deliver a serious point—one you want to drive home with your listeners—is right after they laugh. Why? Because laughing is a tension reliever. When your audience is relaxed and attentive, you can hit them with something you want them to remember.

  How to Use Humor in Presentations

  For presentation humor to be effective, you need to plan for it . Sure, there are times when you can ad-lib (like when something unexpectedly goes wrong—humor can be a great way to recover from a presentation mishap). Still, it really should be an element that you plan and execute deliberately.

  Part of planning is knowing the audience will “get” your humor. Jokes that reference pop culture won’t get the same response from a group of seniors as they will from a room full of teenagers. A quip about ledgers and income statements will be lost on people who don’t know the first thing about accounting. Take the demographics and general interests of your audience into consideration. Everyone loves a good laugh—so the more information you have on your listeners, the easier it will be to tickle their funny bones. Do you need a few ideas on how exactly you can add some humor to your next presentation? Try these:

  Personal anecdotes: The easiest (usually best) person to poke fun at is yourself. Share a personal story that will lend itself to the point you’re trying to make. Personal stories are always full of funny details, and when you talk about something that’s happened to you, people can relate sometimes; that’s why the story is funny.

  The best part of using a story from the pages of your own life is you already know how to tell it because you’ve probably been sharing it for years (unless it’s something that happened on the way to the presentation). If sharing a story based on your experience will help make a point in your presentation, use it!

  Funny quotes: Did you know that the Beatles songs “A Hard Day’s Night,” “Eight Days a Week,” and “Tomorrow Never Knows” came from Ringo Starr mixing up his words? People say the darnedest things and it can be pure gold—just ask the Fab Four.

  Find a funny quote that lends itself to your topic, and use it at the appropriate time. Jump on Google and search for “funny quotes,” but remember to do your homework and verify that a) the quote is accurate and b) it’s attributed to the correct person.

  Funny analogies:  Winston Churchill once said “a good speech should be like a woman’s skirt: long enough to cover the subject and short enough to create interest.” This is a double whammy—not only is that a funny quote, but it’s a great analogy, too.

  An analogy draws a comparison between two different objects or concepts to highlight some similarity. They’re not always easy to come up with yourself, so listen to what the people around you say. When you hear a funny analogy, make a note of it. Even if it’s not perfect for your presentation, you can always swap out a few words or facts to make it work.

  Cartoons: If you’re going to use Powerpoint for your presentation, the least you could do is add a funny cartoon or two to your slides. How many times have you been talking to someone and the conversation reminds of you of a funny cartoon or meme you saw on Facebook? Why can’t that be the same for a presentation?  Whatever your topic, there’s a good chance there’s a funny cartoon floating around about it. Visual aids are great for public speaking—and if they’re funny, even better.

  Funny Signs: I recently saw a sign outside a local greenhouse that read, “Spring is here! We’re so excited, we wet our plants.” It’s a great play on words, but it’s also a funny sign—and a memorable one at that. There are probably five nurseries within about a 10-block area, but the one I remember the most—and its exact location—is the one with that sign-out front.

  Funny signs are everywhere. Once, I saw a “Dead End” sign posted next to a cemetery. (OK, maybe that one was more ironic than funny.) If you keep your eyes open, great material is out there, and it’s all up for grabs for your next presentation.

  Use Presentation Humor Sparingly

  Humorous presentations are a great way to break the ice with your audience, to keep your listeners interested, and to ensure your presentation is memorable, but don’t feel like you have to be a comedian. A few well-placed jokes to show your human side is all you need.

  If you’re thinking about how to make a presentation funny, stick to humor that won’t isolate or target a segment of the audience, and pick “clean” jokes that don’t rely on profanity to make a point. And no matter what, your humor should never be at the expense of others.

  Do you use humor in your presentations? Is it effective? Tell us about it in the comment section. Don’t forget we are always posting useful public speaking tips on our social media channels, so be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Google+.

  10 Comments

  Some great tips here. Thanks Mike…I recently attended one you workshops and it was nothing like I expected. It was entertaining and that’s what made it memorable. I’ve been slowly trying to add some humor into my presentations and it seems to draw the audience in. Thanks again

  I have never been one to use humor though I wish I knew how. I tried a few times and it just ended awkwardly. Someone else I work with, a man names Stuart Williams… He does this effortlessly. He said you have to work with what you have worked with, in other words… Make fun of your own experiences.

  Great advice on using humor in a presentation. Thanks!

  This is absolutely true. There are way too many dry, boring presentations. The ones I remember are the ones I have truly enjoyed, and without exception, they’ve all be presentations where the speaker was funny and personable. That alone kept me engaged.

  Agreed, a little levity goes a long way toward keeping the interest of your peeps

  I think humor, in almost any situation, makes life a bit better. So I definitely agree that it’s appropriate in a business presentation. But yes — plan it ahead and be careful not to do it at anyone’s expense. Don’t go into Michael Scott territory:P

  Great blog!

  I don’t think it’s ever a bad idea to add a little humor, as long as it’s appropriate and in good taste.

  I find humor is a tough skill to master if you don’t know who’s in the audience. People can be really sensitive!

  Presentations that don’t have any humor are so hard to pay attention. I easily find myself drifting off and not tracking with the speaker. Bad Presentations!

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  I Want to Be Funny-How to Add Humor to Your Speech without being a Clown

  

  Want to add humor to your speech? Quite often, when we are designing speeches and presentations for a professional audience, we discount the value of entertainment and humor. However, a good presentation should be both informative and entertaining. You have to have both. If you aren’t providing the audience with good information, then you’re wasting their time. If you aren’t providing some type of entertainment, though, you will likely bore your audience. As a result, they will lose interest. So, by adding a little humor to your speech, you keep your audience engaged throughout your presentation.

  Should I tell Jokes to Add Humor to My Speech?

  When I first started speaking, I had a mentor who had been a speaker and trainer for over three decades. Very early on in my training, she advised me to “Never tell jokes in your speeches.” Later on, though, she encouraged me to add funny stories and anecdotes to my presentations. This contradiction was confusing. In fact, I never really figured out why she and other public speaking coaches were so anti-joke. My guess is that it is an extreme overreaction to a negative experience at some point.

  For instance, if a speaker starts a speech with a joke and it bombs, it is difficult to recover. Or perhaps it has something to do with the fact that many jokes are pretty off-color or inappropriate. One of our professional presentation coaches also teaches people how to do Comedy Improv. He mentioned to me that a major factor in whether a joke is funny or a flop is timing. As a result, I suspect that many presentation coaches discourage jokes because it is difficult to teach timing.

  Whatever the case, I’d wager that every single professional keynote speaker has at least one joke in their keynote speeches somewhere. So eliminating jokes from your presentations entirely is probably a bad idea.

  The Difference Between a Joke and Just a Funny Story.

  If you look at the definition of a joke, according to www.dictionary.com , a joke is…

  A thing that someone says to cause amusement or laughter, especially a story with a funny punchline.

  So, according to these great public speaking coaches, a funny story or funny anecdote is okay, but a “story with a funny punchline” is not okay? Huh? That doesn’t make any sense.

  In my experience, there is absolutely no difference between a joke and a funny story. The only exception is if you insert a joke that has absolutely nothing to do with your presentation. Often, this type of forced delivery can backfire on you. Your jokes need to be appropriate to the point that you are making. In addition, you will want to practice them over and over so that you have them down cold. A poorly delivered joke (or funny story) can be very challenging to overcome.

  

  Make Your Point with Humor

  One of my first big clients, Ron, was the manager of a truck dealership in Ft Worth. Ron was famous (maybe infamous) for starting every meeting with a corny joke. Every week, before he or his managers discussed any business, he’d start the meeting with something corny. Everyone would both laugh and somewhat cringe at the same time. It became part of the culture. (By the way, it really worked. Folks loved to come to his meetings.) Ron was a virtual encyclopedia of clean, corny jokes.

  For Ron, this technique worked really well. However, I don’t encourage people to do this. I doubt that I would as successful with the technique if I used it. For most speakers, using your funny stories as a way to add showmanship to the point that you are making works much better.

  The following techniques will give you much better results:

  Tell a Self-Deprecating Story about How You Screwed Up.

  Find a funny joke that reinforces your bullet point..

  • Add a Funny Analogy.

  As you go through your list of main bullet points to cover in your speech, try this. Ask yourself, “Have I ever had an experience, related to this point, where I totally screwed up?” You will be surprised at how often a funny incident will pop into your head. Keep in mind that sometimes, these incidents seem horrifying to us. However, when we tell the stories to others, they have a high potential for humor.

  For instance, I often start my presentation classes by telling the audience about a huge failure I had as a speaker. When I experienced this failure, it was not funny. It was actually, probably quite sad. However, when I relay the story now, even I get a chuckle out of it. In the story, I prepared a 15-minute speech. I practiced over and over. When I delivered it, though, I spoke really fast. So, I finished in less than four minutes. After I said my last sentence, I looked around the room at all of the confused faces. Panic sat in. Having nothing more to say, I just abruptly returned to my seat and sat down. Glancing around the table, I noticed that the entire room was still staring at me. They all still had confused looks on their faces as well. It was quite awkward.

  Self-deprecating humor is almost always the best (and easiest) type of humor to add to a presentation. The easiest way to make an embarrassing story funny is to exaggerate what happened.

  Google the word “joke” followed by the main idea in your bullet point. For example, I was recently writing a speech on how to improve listening skills in the office. I typed “joke listening” into Google, and I got the following ideas.

  • Recently, my wife asked me, “Are you even listening to me?” I thought that was a really weird way to start a conversation.
  • Job interviewer: “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” “I’d say my biggest weakness is listening.”
  • “You know it is times like these when I wished I had listened to what my mom told me.” “Really? What she say?” “I don’t know. I wasn’t listening.”

  Any of these can, with a little creativity, be tied into the point that I’m making.

  For instance, I could start with the phrase, “The third listening level is what we call ‘Selective Listening.’ That reminds me of a conversation my wife and I had recently. She heatedly asked me, ‘Are you even listening to me?!” I thought, “That is a strange way to start a conversation.'”

  This technique takes a little timing and practice, but it can pay off in a positive way.

  

  Add a Funny Analogy to Add Humor to Your Speech.

  I use analogies a lot in my presentations. An analogy is basically making a comparison of something you are trying to explain with something more commonplace. What makes these fun and funny is when you compare things that absolutely and totally unrelated.

  For instance, a young lady who was a technician at an electric company came through my class a few weeks ago. Her presentation was about new software that would help their sales reps find prospective customers better. She started the explanation by saying the following:

  “When you think of good combinations you think of things like peanut butter and jelly or salt and pepper. You don’t really think about things like salad and ketchup. That is a bad match. So when the program analyzes a potential client and sees a manufacturing company, it identifies that potential client as a ‘peanut butter and jelly’ type prospect. However, with a small retail company that uses very little electricity, that would be more of a ‘ketchup and salad’ combo.”

  What made the delivery funny was that she used this bad combination expression a few times, and every time that she did, she got a bigger laugh. The audience eventually started identifying whether the match was peanut butter and jelly or salad and ketchup.

  The humor worked because she picked an absurd combination with ketchup and salad, and the food items have absolutely nothing to do with electricity consumption. The great news about analogies is that even if they don’t get a laugh, they still work well as showmanship.

  Add Colloquialism’s to Your Speech

  Being from Texas, this is one of my favorite techniques. Dr. Phil, the blunt psychologist who became famous on the Oprah Winfrey show is the king of these. His down-home speech allowed people to laugh and lower their defenses. Mark Twain was also famous for this. The folksy sayings in

  • Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn made those books very popular.

  Type “[Your State or Region] colloquialism” into Google, and you will find funny sayings unique to your area. I did this with Texas, and I got a list of “Texas Sayings”. My favorite was “He’s all hat and no cattle.” I tried it again for “Southern colloquialism” and I got, “That’s a hard dog to keep on the porch” and “He’s happier than a tick on a fat dog.”

  This technique is harder to pull off, but if you do, you can have your audience rolling in the aisle.

  Just remember to make your presentations fun. Add humor to your speech, and you will easily do this.

  

  Podcasts | humor , jokes

  View More Posts By Category: Free Public Speaking Tips | leadership tips | Online Courses | Past Fearless Presentations ® Classes | Podcasts | presentation skills | Uncategorized

  

  Susan Ascher

  Leadership & Career Coach

  Using Humor in a Professional Presentation

  Humor in the office how to make jokes during a presentation.

  

  The Benefits of Humor

  I get it, your quarterly numbers are no place for a stand-up routine, but consider the benefits that a single, well-placed joke will bring:

  • A relaxed audience. Most of your coworkers dislike meetings and presentations. This means they are not looking forward to hearing you talk. Do not take it personally. Instead, make them laugh, put them at ease, and remind them you are in control. It helps maintain their interest in you.
  • A relaxed speaker. This means you. Once the audience chuckles, maintaining composure and clearly communicating your message is much easier.
  • Humor improves communication skills. The more you look forward to telling those one or two well-placed jokes, the harder you work on the presentation. After the audience laughs, it makes speakers relay information with more confidence and puts them at ease in front of people.
  • Good-natured jokes set you apart. The lucky people in any office are the ones whose coworkers do not mind attending their meetings. It makes presentations easier, but it also makes you better at your job.

  How to Instill Your Talk with Humor

  Humor is hilarious when it works, but it quickly turns the audience against you when it doesn’t. This is often caused by improper delivery. Here are some tips to get the funny bones jingling:

  • Do not rely on the cliché jokes. Humor depends on the unexpected. Every once in awhile, something is just so funny you cannot pass on the opportunity, but use these moments sparingly.
  • The presentation does not have to open with a joke. Many people try this technique, which often leads to awkward transitions to the source material.
  • Do not be afraid to hang the lampshade. In other words, say what everyone is thinking. Acknowledge the hot, stuffy room or the inconsiderate construction workers blowing dust into the parking lot. If you say what the audience is thinking, they will immediately trust you.
  • Use humor relevant to your business, industry, or job function. People are less likely to think you are trying too hard to be funny if you utilize jokes rooted in truth.

  CLICK HERE to read about the benefits of leadership coaching, and discover more great ideas like this!

  Additional Resources: How to Infuse Humor throughout a Professional Presentation Business Humor – How To Use It In Your Next Presentation Humor has it: Why use Humor in Business Presentations

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  Blog / Presentation Delivery / Adding humour to your presentations.

  

  Adding humour to your presentations.

  Pull the other one

  Everyone has their own idea of what makes a great presentation. You’ve made an impressive PowerPoint slide deck, you know your subject matter inside out, and you’re a confident person who is used to speaking publicly … sounds like you’re about to kill it.

  But (and this is a significant but) what if your audience aren’t as enthusiastic as you are? What if yours is just one in a long line of other presentations they’ve had to sit through that day? How do you grab their attention and stand out? Easy… be funny.

  Now we’re not saying that all presentations need humour. A high-pressure sales environment might not be the best place to make jokes. Neither would a report to investors detailing how you’ve lost all their money. However, in the right situation, adding humour to your presentation could help you appear more relaxed, confident, relatable and creative.

  If you’d like to inject some potential comedy, here are some tips on how to add humour to a presentation.

  Research your audience

  This is the most important thing to consider when writing jokes – for presentations or not. Comedy relies upon your audience getting the joke: they need to understand and relate to what you are making light of, otherwise you’ll come across as ‘someone trying to be funny’. That’s a fail.

  You should know most of this when preparing your presentation in the first place, but consider the audience’s age, what kind of business they are involved in, and if there are any cultural barriers that may stand in your way. If you are a 30 year old skateboard salesperson presenting to a group of 30 year old skateboard shop owners, you can assume some common ground from which humour can be derived.

  Work on your script

  For most comedians, the humour comes from the writing. If you have an existing presentation script that you know backwards, revisit the words on the page and think where jokes could be added. Think of how your audience has reacted to it in the past. Were there moments where you felt it was difficult to hold their attention? Could you make light of ‘the boring bit’?

  If you’re creating a new presentation script and want to add humour to that, remember not to be funny to begin with. Unless you are giving a talk about how hilarious you can be (traditionally known as a stand-up comedy routine), you need to focus on the real content as a priority. After all, you still want your presentation to be effective and to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in your field. Your script and slideshow are the cake, while the humour is a plump and juicy cherry on top. Nobody is there just for the cherry.

  Take the right risks

  Humour is always a risk. Even in a room filled with like-minded, enthusiastic people who know you and are rooting for your presentation, there is always a chance that a joke could fail to get the laugh you’d hope for, or, worst case scenario, fall flat on its face.

  Therefore, when scripting, it may be advisable to keep your introduction free of humour. The first few lines of any presentation are hugely important as it is typically when your audience forms an opinion about you. Be professional first, and then add the funnies once you have them on your side.

  

  Less is more

  Listen to any great comedian with a technical ear and you might notice how few jokes they actually crack. Just because you’ve decided to inject some humour into your presentation, doesn’t mean every single slide in your PowerPoint deck needs to result in a joke. Cramming your presentation with humour will distract from the real information you’re trying to communicate and result in a confused and annoyed audience.

  Even just two or three comical observations or self-deprecating jokes in your entire talk could be enough to lighten the mood, make you more memorable, and demonstrate that you are extremely comfortable with both your subject matter and the task of presenting.

  Don’t expect the laugh

  So, you’ve just uttered a witty observation comparing the sales team to a group of background extras from The Walking Dead . Nice. However, whatever you do don’t wait expectantly for a laugh. Yes, you might have totally nailed the comparison and think the joke to be absolutely side-splitting, but it may take your audience a while to get it.

  Staring at them with a gormless smile on your face waiting for them to laugh, will not help. Crack the joke and quickly move on, keeping the flow and energy of the presentation going. An audience’s laughter is their own reaction and could take many forms; be it a short, sharp bark, or a quiet snigger seconds after the punchline. Leave them to it and continue with your presentation.

  Plan for an ‘ejector seat’ situation

  Just as any flogger of deceased horses might tell you, if it ain’t working, quit. Your audience research might have been thorough, and your jokes hilarious and appropriate, but every comedian has a bad day. If you drop your first joke and the audience don’t seem to like it at all, prepare to hit the ejector seat button.

  As we said earlier, the humour in your presentation should a cherry on top of a delicious cake. Make sure that, should you feel the need to, you can remove the cherry without spoiling the rest of the cake. If your script depends on jokes for crucial segues, introductions , and closing statements , you won’t be able to easily remove them in the event of an emergency.

  Instead, make the humour additional to the content. When scripting you might find it useful to add the joke or funny observation as a bullet point after a paragraph of serious content. That way, you’ll find it simpler to skip, moving swiftly on to the next important section.

  Ironically, adding humour to your presentation is no laughing matter and should be taken seriously. Although a greater degree of risk is involved in execution, if it goes well the value it will add to your speech, and to your audience’s engagement, will be worth it.

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  Icebreaker Jokes: Lightening Up Presentations and Speeches

  Many individuals find speaking in public to be a challenging task. Whether it’s a presentation at work, a speech at a conference, or any other speaking engagement, it’s important to connect with your audience and set a comfortable tone.

  One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by using icebreaker jokes. These light-hearted quips can help you break down barriers, create a more relaxed atmosphere, and establish a connection with your listeners.

  

  In this article, we will discuss the importance of icebreaker jokes in presentations and speeches, and provide some tips on how to choose and deliver them effectively.

  Why Icebreaker Jokes Matter

  • Reducing nerves

  Starting your presentation or speech with a joke can help to calm your nerves and make you feel more at ease in front of an audience. Laughter is a natural stress-reliever, so sharing a joke can help both you and your audience feel more relaxed.

  • Engaging the audience

  A well-delivered icebreaker joke can immediately capture your audience’s attention and pique their interest. This sets the stage for an engaging and interactive presentation or speech.

  • Establishing rapport

  Sharing a joke allows your audience to see your human side, which can help them relate to you on a personal level. This connection can make your message more impactful and memorable.

  Choosing the Right Icebreaker Joke

  • Keep it relevant

  When choosing an icebreaker joke, make sure it is related to your topic or the event. This helps to create a smooth transition into the main content of your presentation or speech.

  • Consider your audience

  Be aware of the cultural and demographic makeup of your audience. Avoid jokes that could be offensive, insensitive, or inappropriate. It’s better to choose a joke that is universally relatable and inoffensive.

  • Keep it short and simple

  Choose a joke that is easy to understand and doesn’t require a lengthy setup. Your audience should be able to grasp the punchline quickly and effortlessly.

  Tips for Delivering an Icebreaker Joke

  As with any other aspect of public speaking, practice makes perfect. Rehearse your icebreaker joke multiple times before your presentation or speech. This will help you deliver it with confidence and good timing.

  • Be yourself

  When telling a joke, let your natural personality shine through. Avoid trying to imitate a famous comedian or adopt a persona that isn’t authentic to who you are.

  • Read the room

  Pay attention to your audience’s reaction. If your joke doesn’t land as expected, don’t dwell on it. Instead, gracefully move on to the next part of your presentation or speech.

  Incorporating icebreaker jokes into your presentations and speeches can be a powerful way to create a connection with your audience, establish rapport, and set a positive tone.

  By choosing the right joke, practicing your delivery, and staying true to yourself, you can transform the atmosphere of any speaking engagement and make it a more enjoyable experience for all.

  
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  Humor in Presentations…what a joke!

  The use of humor in presentations is both powerful and…..how do I put this…and can be very dangerous!

  Humor can add impact with humorous tones in story telling to make a point or colorfully reinforce the message you are delivering. Now read this next part carefully…humor in presentations is NOT about telling jokes. Yet, I’m often contacted by individuals who tell me they are delivering a presentation and can I give them my best jokes…Give me a break!

  Nothing has changed…I still don’t know any good jokes.

  Over time I have only overheard or been told jokes that are old, corny, gender biased, gratuitous and generally offensive for some individuals. Shocking to me is that what I’ve described is just what I’ve heard delivered by presenters and then I get to watch their audience cringe, gasp and mutter something under their breath. Ouch!

  Humor in presentations is highly effective when used strategically.

  By that I mean when you use it to your advantage and it adds to your presentation. I don’t mean using snappy one liners either. Think back on your own experiences that invariably something happened to you or you observed that struck you as funny. Choose experiences that your audience can easily relate to…personal or business…so they can feel the experience first hand.

  Developing keen observations on a daily basis of things that go on around us and sharing those events is one of the most powerful techniques that has been known to be called observational humor. Besides those stories are easy to tell…they happened to you and likely many others have felt that experience or more importantly can relate to it. The point you deliver will be remembered by the mental images you create for your audience.

  A funny story without a point to it isn’t worth telling

  That’s the catch…the humor must be used strategically to drive your point home. I cringe sometimes when I hear a presenter deliver a very good story and yet it falls flat because it quickly feels out of context because it didn’t get connect to anything…what was the point? I guess the presenter just likes to tell that favorite story at every opportunity.

  Gets worse when I hear the presenter say, ‘the point of the story was’…if you need to explain that part…you have missed the mark. It’s like telling a simple joke to a group of friends…finding they look at you with a blank stare…and you feel compelled to say, ‘well, the funny part was…get it?’

  No, I don’t get it!

  Did you use humor just to get a laugh?…what for? Now if it was used to break some tension or diffuse a tense moment that’ different…that’s strategic. Humor is powerful as a tension breaker if you feel it is necessary. Avoid the temptation of opening a presentation with humor because you feel it will break the ice or warm them up. You are not in a comedy club as a warm up act.

  Think you’re funny?…then audition at a comedy club…you may find out you’re the only one who thinks you’re funny!

  I’m sure you will have the audience rolling in the aisles. Well, as they stampede toward every available fire exit or worse yet looking for any available food stuffs to fling your way.

  Occupational humor…the danger zone!

  Now it’s my turn to tell a story…the circumstance I’m about to relate is permanently burned into my brain and serves to act as an example of using stereotypical occupational humor and its ramifications. The story has a strong tone and is not meant to be graphic but highly descriptive.

  Scene: Large boardroom with senior executives seated soberly in their assigned places.

  I’m one of three observers in place in holding a consultative role. The presenter is to deliver quarterly results that are anticipated as less than vigorous. Shortly into the presentation the presenter feels the tension in the room and decides to break the tension by saying he had joke to tell. The first I though was, ‘uh…oh’…not good…I struggled and held back from shouting, ‘Fire’, in hopes of clearing the room and saving the presenter from what I sensed as impending doom.

  It was too late; the presenter had chosen to deliver a tired stereotypical joke that poked fun at an occupation. Granted certain occupations seem to attract humor attention, in this case it was directed toward the legal profession. The presenter prefaced his remarks by saying, ‘I hope there aren’t any lawyers in the room’, as if that would cushion what would come next.

  The punch line was delivered…

  …the group in the room audibly gasped…and one could hear a proverbial pin drop in the room. After what seemed like an eon passing, the most senior official at the head of the table broke the silence in the room by saying, ‘your story reminded me of my daughter, she was going to be a lawyer until she was taken from me in a tragic auto accident last year’…

  The damage was done.

  Lacking a trap door in the floor the presenter may have called upon his knowledge of physics in determining the speed required to cross the room and burst through the window in hopes it was several floors above street level and plunge to his demise.

  Do you recall my mention of the danger of ill chosen humor?…Point made.

  Relating personal experiences with a humorous tone…that’s my choice.

  For those of you that attended or should I have said successfully survived my two day Presentation Boot Camp may recall a personal experience I share in a strategic manner to deliver my point. I have found it is not uncommon for some of my participants to have some reservation on how I could ever help them be more powerful presenters…I’ve heard some say…after all they have delivered presentations for years…there’s nothing to it. Really?

  So it starts like this…I make a statement about our own presentation self awareness. Just because we have done something or acted in a certain way doesn’t necessarily mean that we are getting better, improving or growing.

  A powerful experience of self awareness.

  Then I go on to say…’let me tell you about my own recent powerful experience of self awareness. It goes like this, ‘one day my teenaged daughter comes up to me and says, ‘Dad, I have an announcement to make’…I swallowed hard not knowing what would come next . She tells me she has decided it was time for her to get her drivers license. I’m thinking oh is that all…is that all!…don’t get me started on the thoughts that raced through my head at that point.

  She quickly agreed to my suggestion of enrolling in driving instruction classes. She seemed less agreeable to my next suggestion of her and I practice driving on weekends…mmhh. During one our first few practice drives she appeared a bit timid behind the wheel. In a moment of consoling I suggested her driving would get better and better the longer she drives and has more experience.

  Then it happened. With hardly a pause and glancing at me rather quizzically, she remarked, ‘Dad, you have been driving for years…how come you’re not a better driver’. I responded, ‘what do you mean?…

  Her response was, ‘I’ve told my driving instructor some of the things you do and he says they are actually against the law’…so I say, ‘next time I do something like that point it out to me’

  As it happened in the next block she blurted out…’there you just did it again’…’did what?’ I said. She went on to tell me in drivers hand book accuracy that I did not come to a full and complete stop at the stop sign. Our following banter consisted of …no you didn’t…yes I did…no you didn’t…and she successfully got in the final…no you didn’t.

  That’s when it hit me. In my mind I was doing the right thing

  …well until it was brought to my attention. It’s clear to me now that just because I have been acting or behaving a certain way for years doesn’t mean I’m getting better at it or elevating my skills.

  My concluding statement to the group goes like this…’Presenters, I no longer get the same traffic ticket again and again… that tells me all of us here today has room to grow and the opportunity get better as presenters…at this point I arch back as if I’m sliding and I raise my voice sharply and deliver my closing line…’unless someone says I should STOP!.’

  That one simple story invariably generates a hearty round of laughter followed by lively discussion and a debrief on the principle of self awareness. Better yet the group becomes much more open to self discovery. It also gives me a transition point to move deeper into humor, and incorporating into existing personal experiences through strategic story telling.

  Your story is simple, real and easy to tell…because it’s your story

  The story is simple, real and easy to tell…because it’s my story. I choose carefully from my story inventory to make it relevant to the audience demographic. That way they can feel the experience along with me…and paint their own mental pictures for higher retention of the learning point. That is one story from dozens and dozens I have collected and used for a strategic learning advantage.

  That story does not appear in every presentation I deliver…just when it’s right for the audience. I have recently elevated that story with technology. There are PowerPoint portions of my presentations that I have inserted my own digital pictures or even video clips. That technique has warmed up the story even more by making it personal and real.

  Now is the time to brush up on some of your own business or personal experiences and weave them into your next presentation as strategic and scintillating story learning experience.

  Instead of acting on the often heard expression: “Different day…same story”…now start acting on this premise.

  Different day…different story… and that’s no joke.

  Presentation Resource Library:

  P.P.S – be sure to visit my presentation portal to the latest updates on new articles by going here: http://www.passociates.com/presentation-tips/

  Richard Peterson, North America’s Presentation Coach(TM)

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  60 Effective PowerPoint Presentation Tips & Tricks (Giant List)

  Here's a PowerPoint presentation tips and tricks guide that takes you through how to make a good PowerPoint presentation.

  

  The best PowerPoint presentations shouldn’t be remembered. Instead, they should fall into the background to support you and the message you’re trying to get across.

  Unlike good PowerPoint presentations , bad PowerPoint presentations are a distraction. You may remember them, but not in a good way.

  You’ve seen them before. They might have millions of lines of text. Or a disjointed flow to the slides. Even worse, some slides feature ugly photos and poor design that detract from the message you’re trying to get across. That can even hurt your credibility as a professional or speaker.

  

  This article will take you from finding your initial topic to learning how to make a great PowerPoint presentation. Our guide covers everything in between so that you learn how to present a PowerPoint like a pro.

  These Microsoft PowerPoint presentation tips and guidelines are organized into sections. So cut straight to the advice you need and come back when you’re ready for the next steps.

  Guide to Making Great Presentations (Free eBook Download)

  

  Also, download our Free eBook: The Complete Guide to Making Great Presentations . It’s the deepest resource for learning effective presentation skills for a PPT.

  This eBook covers the complete presentation process. It takes the PowerPoint tips and tricks you learn in this article further. Learn how to write your presentation, design it like a pro, and prepare it to present powerfully. It’s another great source for presentation design tips.

  Master PowerPoint (Free Course): 15 Essential Tips

  This article is full of helpful tips so you can build a powerful presentation. You can also find more PowerPoint tips in this video lesson:

  To learn even more about how to make a PowerPoint look good, review the huge list of tips below.

  What Makes a PowerPoint Presentation Effective?

  Knowing how to use PowerPoint and work within it quickly is helpful. But more important is making a good presentation that hits all your goals. A great PowerPoint presentation is:

  • Prepared to Win . Research, plan, and prepare your presentation professionally. It helps you deliver an effective message to your target audience.
  • Designed Correctly . Your visual points should stand out without overwhelming your audience. A good PowerPoint visual shouldn’t complicate your message.
  • Practiced to Perfection . Rehearse your timing and delivery so that your points land as practiced with a live audience.
  • Delivered With Poise . Present with a relaxed inner calm and confident outward projection. Give your audience warmth, excitement, and energy.
  • Free From Mistakes . Avoid typos, cheesy clip art, and mistakes like reading directly from your slides.

  Consider this your all-inclusive guide to how to make a good presentation. We’ll look at preparing your presentation and explore how to design it in PowerPoint. Plus, we’ll cover how to practice and nail your delivery successfully come presentation time.

  We’ll also address what not to do in these tips for PowerPoint presentations—so you can sidestep any big mistakes. Now let’s dig into these tips for effective PowerPoint presentations.

  Killer Presentation Preparation Tips to Get Started Right

  Before even opening PowerPoint, start by addressing these things. These Microsoft PowerPoint tips and tricks will ensure that you’re prepared for your presentation:

  1. Know Your Stuff

  Your presentation isn’t about your slides alone. It’s about the message you want to get across. Before filling in stats, facts and figures, think about the narrative that’ll be discussed, why, and in what order.

  2. Write It Out

  Start in a Word or Google doc, and storyboard or script the entire presentation. This will give you an idea of how the information presented will flow and how viewers will see it in sequence. Learn the complete writing process .

  3. Highlight What’s Most Important

  A presentation covers the most crucial pieces only. Whatever you’ve been working on that led to this—a paper, a work project, a new product design—doesn’t need to be shared in its entirety. Pick key points and put the rest in an “Appendix” to refer to during the Q&A session at the end.

  4. Know Your Audience

  How you talk to a room full of medical professionals should be different from the way you address a room full of young entrepreneurs. Everything, in fact, is different: your topic selection, the language you use, the examples you give to illustrate points. The little bits of humor you include should be tailored specifically with your target audience in mind.

  Understand your audience’s needs to create a successful PowerPoint presentation. Customize your content to meet their specific requirements.

  5. Rehearse! (Yes, Already)

  It’s never too early to get used to the rhythm of your presentation and take note of points you want to emphasize. While saying it out loud, you’ll start to develop a “feel” for the material. You’ll notice that some things work well, while others don’t and might need to be worked around.

  6. Rewrite After You Rehearse

  As you’re rehearsing your presentation, you’re bound to stumble over sections that don’t quite flow naturally. Instead of reworking your delivery, it might be time to consider the content and rewrite the areas that served as stumbling blocks.

  “Editing is hard. ‘It’s good enough,’ is a phrase wannabes use. Leaders take editing seriously.” – Anthony Trendl

  The most important part of creating a great presentation is the writing stage. The second most important stage is rewriting.

  7. Share With a Friend

  If the stakes are high for your presentation, it’s never too early to get feedback from those that you trust. Here’s an article that helps you collaborate as a team on a PowerPoint presentation. Get PowerPoint design tips from those that you trust when you collaborate.

  Simple Tips to Design Your PowerPoint Presentation Better

  Second only to you (the information you bring and how you present it) is your PowerPoint slides. If not designed well, a PowerPoint can be disengaging or distracting (regardless of the content quality). Here are some presentation design tips to make sure this doesn’t happen to you:

  8. Keep Your Slides Simple

  This is one of the most important PowerPoint presentation tips to follow when designing your slides. Keep in mind that less is more (effective.) A cluttered slide is distracting. It causes confusion for an audience: Which part of the slide should I focus on? Should I read the slide or pay attention to the presenter?

  A simple, visually appealing slide will engage your audience, keeping them on track with your main points. Here’s an example of a simple slide that serves its purpose perfectly:

  

  Minimalist slide templates like Nook can help you resist the urge to clutter your slides.

  9. Limit Words on Your Slides

  Piggybacking on the last point, less is more effective. If possible, avoid bullets altogether. Otherwise cut them to just a few simple words. The audience should be listening, not reading.

  10. Use High-Quality Photos and Graphics

  One of the most important tips for quality PowerPoint presentations is to use high-quality photos and graphics.

  Earlier in this tutorial, you saw Envato Elements, an all-you-can-download service with PPT tips inside of templates. Those pre-built designs are a beginner’s best friend. They’re even better when paired with Elements’ unlimited library of stock photos .

  People are more likely to take you seriously if your presentation is visually appealing. Users view attractive design as more usable. Similarly, they’ll view a more attractive PowerPoint as more effective.

  11. Use Accurate and Relevant Charts and Graphs

  Charts and graphs can also be distracting if they’re not used right. Make sure your information design is simple and clean so that the audience doesn’t spend the entire time trying to decipher what your X axis says. Learn more about PPT data presentation .

  12. Use High-Quality, Fresh Templates

  Have you seen the old PowerPoint template that looks like worn paper and uses ink splashes? Yeah, so has your audience. Templates can be distracting if they’re too basic or if the design feels dated. You need one with great design options.

  Costs are always a concern. But when you use Envato Elements, you’ve got everything you need to create a great PowerPoint presentation . That’s thanks to the incredible all-you-can-download subscription package.

  The best PowerPoint tips and tricks can hardly compare to the value of using a template while building your presentation.

  On Envato Elements, there are thousands of PowerPoint design templates that are ready to use. Instead of designing a presentation from scratch, start with a template! Just add your specifics to the placeholders.

  

  Templates like Galaxi are impressively designed and waiting for your slide specifics.

  The best PowerPoint design tips save you time. And there’s no tip more powerful than this one: use a pre-built template . It helps you master how to present a PowerPoint without spending all your time in the app.

  13. Choose Appropriate Fonts

  Fonts are an important part of engaging your audience. Fonts and typography choices have a subconscious effect on viewers. They can characterize your company’s presentation and brand either positively or negatively. Make sure that you’re choosing fonts that are professional and modern.

  14. Choose Color Well

  Like font choice, colors cause specific subconscious reactions from viewers. Choosing an outdated color combination for your presentation will render it ineffective.

  Below is an example of the Popsicle PowerPoint template , which has a modern presentation color choice:

  

  The Popsicle PowerPoint template highlights how harmonized color palettes can create beautiful slides.

  15. Clean + Simple Formatting Makes All the Difference!

  We’ve got a full tutorial on how to make a good presentation slide . Give it a read through and review the accompanying video. Just remember, less is more. The focus is you and your message , not your slides.

  16. Make Sure All Objects Are Aligned

  A simple way to create a well-designed presentation is to make sure all items on a slide are intentionally aligned. To do this, hold down Shift and select all the objects you want to include. Then choose Arrange in the options bar and apply Alignment Type .

  17. Limit Punctuation

  This isn’t the place for exclamation points. Emphasize your points (while speaking). Don’t enlist punctuation to do this for you. (Leave these at home!!!)

  18. Avoid Over-Formatting Your Points

  This PowerPoint presentation tip is simple. There’s no need to have every word of every bullet point capitalized, or to have all your bullet points in title case. If possible, drop bullets altogether. Again, the simpler, the better!

  Limit your text formatting, including reducing the use of bullets, underline, and other effects. Compare the before example on the left to the revised version on the right.

  

  19. Combine Information With Graphics in PowerPoint

  One of the most powerful presentation skills for PPT is using infographics. With the right type of visuals, slides come to life and reduce the text in favor of graphics.

  Infographics help combine information with graphics. It’s easier to explain complex ideas when you use visual formats that are intuitive.

  Practice Presentation Tips: Rehearse, Rehearse, Rehearse!

  Delivery is probably more important than the actual content. Here’s how to become more aware of your own unique ticks, and how to present like a polished pro:

  20. I’ll Say It Again, Rehearse!

  Just do it. Again and again. Experiment with pauses, gestures, and body language. Practice around one hour for every minute of your speech.

  21. Practice With a Timer

  Consistency is key to an effective PowerPoint presentation. The timing should be similar (ideally the same) each time you rehearse. This one will especially pay off when it’s time to present in front of your audience.

  22. Slow It Down

  Many of the best speakers today intentionally speak slowly. You’ll have the chance to emphasize, appear more thoughtful, and make your information easier to digest.

  23. Pause More Often

  Like the prior tip, pausing more often allows your main points to be emphasized and gives time for information to sink in. You need to let key points breathe a little before rushing into the next section.

  24. Record Yourself

  Use your phone’s voice recorder. Assess and critique yourself. Consider:

  • Are your pauses too short or too long?
  • Are you speaking slowly enough? Too slow?
  • When you’re nervous, does your voice get high like the mice in Cinderella?
  

  It’s always weird to hear your own voice recorded; don’t stress it. Use this as a time to adjust.

  25. Choose Three Focal Points in the Room

  If you stare at the same spot (or even creepier, the same person) the entire time, your presentation will be ineffective (and awkward.) People will be distracted by you, wondering what you’re staring at.

  Try this: pick three points in the room (typically: left, center, right). Take time to direct your delivery toward each physical focal point in the room. Also, focus on the center when making your primary points.

  26. Vary Your Sentence Length

  This makes you sound more interesting, and it’s easier for your audience to follow. Think short and punchy. Or go long and complex for dramatic effect.

  27. Modulate!

  Don’t speak in monotone for your whole presentation. Be conscious of raising and lowering your voice tone. Otherwise, people will tune you out, and you’ll come across like the teacher in Charlie Brown.

  28. Practice in Front of a Mirror

  What you look like is as important as how you sound. Pretend you’re having a normal conversation, and allow your hands to move with your speech to emphasize your points. Just don’t get carried away! (I’m thinking Brene Brown or President Obama , not your Aunt Jamie after a few gin and tonics.)

  29. Use “Present Mode” When Rehearsing

  When you finally are ready to hit the Present button in PowerPoint, make sure you use the Present Mode option. This allows you (and only you) to view extra notes about each slide—just in case you forget something!

  30. Practice With New Audiences

  If possible, try doing a few real live test runs as a webinar or even at a local Toastmasters organization to get some feedback from a live audience.

  31. Engage the Audience by Asking Questions

  There’s no reason that a presentation should be one-sided. Why not invert the format and ask your audience a question?

  To learn how to create a slide that kicks off a Q&A, use this article . These PowerPoint design tips help you create an engaging and exciting discussion.

  Helpful Tips to Step Up and Deliver Come Presentation Time

  When the actual day arrives, there are only a few last PowerPoint presentation tips and guidelines to keep in mind:

  32. Take a Deep Breath

  Deep breathing is proven to relieve stress. It’s simple, and it’ll help you remain calm and in the moment, even up to the last minute before starting.

  33. Lighten Up Your Mood

  Tell yourself a joke or watch a funny video clip. Do this before the presentation, of course. Research concludes that happy people are more productive. More productive is more focused and able to perform better.

  34. Remind Yourself to Take It Slow

  When we’re stressed or nervous (or both), we tend to speak faster. Consciously, take yet another deep breath and remind yourself to take it slow!

  35. Read the Room

  Every presentation room has a temperature. It’s your job as a speaker to gauge it and tailor your presentation to it.

  Here’s a great example. Layoffs are coming at a company, and you’re asked to speak to an audience. Even if the audience isn’t personally affected by the actions, you’ve got to consider the morale of the workforce.

  

  Skilled speakers have a knack for reading the energy of the room and adjusting their presentation on the fly.

  The last thing that group will want to hear is how strong the economy is and why the company is the best place to work. That doesn’t mean that you’ve got to align to their uncertainty, but don’t go too far against the grain while presenting.

  Robert Kennedy III is a master of bringing energy and aligning a speech to the audience. Here’s his advice for adjusting:

  “It can be hard to wake up a “dead” crowd but go for it. Most of all, don’t take their energy personally. Focus on serving them with every bit of your fiber then leave empty.”

  36. Fake It ‘Til You Make It!

  Go forward with confidence. If you act confident, you’ll start to feel more confident. Move slowly with grace, speak clearly, smile, wear something nice. You’ll appear confident to all attendees (no matter how you feel internally).

  PowerPoint Presentation Tips and Tricks to Help Avoid Mistakes (What Not to Do)

  Most importantly, focus on what you can do to make your presentation better. There are a few important things not to do that we’ve got to address. Here are a handful of PowerPoint presentation tips and tricks to help you avoid missteps.

  37. Stop With the Sound Effects

  Sound effects are distracting and outdated. In most cases, avoid them. Add audio or music to your presentation to inject interest or highlight an important point, but it’s something to take extra care with. If you insert audio, then make sure your use really connects with your audience and has a fresh approach. Otherwise, it’s best to leave it out.

  38. Don’t Use Flashy Slide Transitions

  Again, this is distracting and outdated. Use transitions and subtle animations in your PowerPoint presentation. But you need to take care and do it right .

  39. Beware of Clip Art

  This PowerPoint presentation tip shouldn’t even have to be said. But please, please don’t use clip art. Use professional graphics instead.

  40. Don’t Be Afraid to Be Afraid

  The fear of public speaking is a real one. Many beginners think that if they’re feeling nervous that a presentation won’t go well or succeed. That might lead them to cancel the presentation.

  Here’s a tip from expert Sandra Zimmer, who leads The Self-Expression Center on conquering your fears before you take the stage:

  “Get out of your head and into your body. I do this through a grounding exercise that really works to calm nerves and bring you present in the moment.”

  If you think that public speaking fears aren’t normal, you might never give your award-winning presentation. So don’t be afraid to be afraid, and acknowledge it’s part of the process!

  41. Don’t Read Directly During Your PowerPoint Presentation

  If you spend your entire presentation looking at the screen or your note cards, you’re sure to lose your audience’s attention. They’ll disengage from what you’re saying, and your presentation will fall flat.

  Reading from your paper or screen also makes it look like you’re not prepared. Many people do it, but no one should. As a general rule, only present something you know well and have, at least mostly, memorized the main points of.

  42. Don’t Miss Out on PowerPoint Customizations

  Many new PowerPoint users often make significant mistakes when using Envato Elements designs.

  The best way to see how to make a good presentation PPT is to start with designs from others. That means using a template, but that doesn’t mean you can’t customize them!

  

  Don’t forget that PowerPoint templates are infinitely customizable. Think of them as guides with built-in presentation design tips.

  To see more presentation tips that show you what not to do, make sure to check out our guide .

  Work in PowerPoint More Effectively (Tips & Tricks to Level Up Your PPT Skills)

  These PowerPoint tips will help you get the most out of the application to level up your next presentation. Let’s dive in.

  43. Use the Visual Guides

  When you’re designing your next PowerPoint presentation, it helps to create a sense of visual rhythm. Slides that have objects aligned and centered are more likely to resonate with an audience.

  44. Use a Few Animations (Tastefully)

  Animations in effective PowerPoint presentations are a slippery slope. We’ve all sat through presentations where there were so many objects in motion that it was easy to lose focus on the key ideas in the presentation.

  But that’s why animations get an unfairly bad reputation. Use animations to create motion and hold an audience’s attention. Use them sparingly and on key elements on your slide, and you’ll capture that attention properly.

  45. Stage Key Content With Animations

  You just learned that animations should avoid being distracting. But there’s an important principle to using animations properly. It’s called staging content.

  Staging content means that the content appears step by step. There’s nothing worse than overwhelming an audience with all your content at once. But when you stage content, bring it on step by step.

  Take it from presentation pro Suzannah Baum :

  “If you’re sharing a slide with lots of different points on it, using the animation to reveal those points one at a time is a way to keep the presenter’s content flowing smoothly.”

  For more animation presentation tips and tricks, follow our guide .

  46. Add a Video to Your PowerPoint

  When you’re sharing a big idea in your presentation, it helps to share your perspective from a few different angles. Adding a video to supplement your content can do just that. Luckily, it’s easy to add and embed a YouTube video in your next PowerPoint presentation.

  47. Add Charts & Graphs

  Charts and graphs can help you tell stories with data. It’s easy for an audience to zone out when you throw a big data table or set of statistics at them.

  instead, convert those to charts and graphs. Try out our tutorial to learn how to edit those graphs.

  48. Build Your Own Infographics With SmartArt

  Earlier in this tutorial, we gave you one of my favorite PowerPoint design tips: use infographic templates.

  Here’s another. One of my favorite PowerPoint features is SmartArt, which allows you to build infographics right inside the app.

  You don’t have to use another graphic design app like Photoshop or Illustrator to add visuals. Instead, try out SmartArt to help you build graphics that are easy to update.

  49. Use Presenter View

  Remember that when you use the PowerPoint, you’ re the presentation. The slides are just there to reinforce what you’ve got to say and support your speaking points.

  That’s why I always recommend using Presenter view. More often than not, you’re going to have several displays. Presenter view shows your content on your screen, while your presentation is displayed on another screen.

  50. Track Your PowerPoint Changes

  One of my favorite PowerPoint design tips is to collaborate. Those who know you best will suggest compelling changes that are sure to help you succeed.

  As you start collaborating on your presentation, it helps to keep track of proposed and included PowerPoint changes. Use this article to track changes made by others.

  10 More Advanced PowerPoint Tips & Tricks

  Really need to wow an audience with a good PowerPoint presentation? Give these tips a try to make an unforgettable impression:

  51. Engage With an Interactive Quiz

  A good PowerPoint presentation gets your audience involved. One of the best PowerPoint tricks is to do that with a quiz. By engaging audiences, a quiz makes your slides memorable.

  

  By adding trivia, you’ll see how to present a PowerPoint in a way that people will love. Channel your inner game-show host today. MIDTEST is a  good PowerPoint presentation  with quiz slides.

  52. Illustrate With Custom Image Masks

  One of the top PowerPoint tips is to illustrate your slides. But you can go beyond simple, rectangular images on each slide.

  

  The Burte template is full of  PowerPoint tricks , including custom image masks. Image masks shape photos into unique works of art. And thanks to premium templates, you can style photos just like this. Masks overlay your photos onto geometric shapes, instantly elevating your style.

  53. Print Handouts With Extra Notes

  Wonder how to give a good presentation PPT that audiences will remember? Give them a piece of it to take home.

  PowerPoint makes it easy to print handouts with room for notes on the page. This way, audiences can keep copies of your slides, along with their own notes. This is the perfect way to ensure everyone engages with and retains your content.

  54. Make Bulk Edits With Master Slides

  When you think about how to present a PowerPoint, consider your branding. That means keeping your logo front and center in the eyes of an audience. But if you’re working with a lengthy slide deck, this could seem daunting.

  That’s where master slides come in. They’re common in premium layouts, and they’re a leading example of presentation skills for PPT. Master slides let you make bulk edits fast.

  55. Shrink File Sizes for Sharing

  Many of the top presentation tips involve making your slides more accessible. Often, that involves sharing them with audiences online.

  You’ll often find that email clients and cloud services limit the size of files that you share. This can be a problem with large PPT slide decks. But there are a few quick steps you can take to reduce PPT file size. Cut graphics, scale down photos, and more.

  56. Map Processes With Flowcharts

  As you consider how to do a good PowerPoint presentation, think of ease of understanding. After all, you’re trying to explain something to your audience.

  

  The  Flowcharts in Infographics  template seamlessly illustrates ideas and processes. A flowchart maps out a process in a visual way. Instead of resorting to endless narration, try a quick illustration like this. It saves you time and effort, and your audience is sure to thank you.

  57. Use Brand-Specific Colors

  Using presentation skills for PPT helps form an association between your message and branding. There’s no better way to do that than with your brand colors.

  PowerPoint makes it easy to change color themes, adding your brand colors and logo to each slide. This is one of the top PowerPoint tricks for marketing presentations.

  58. Build Social Media Posts in PPT

  A good PowerPoint presentation doesn’t have to be shared through a projector. Use the app and templates to build amazing illustrations to use anywhere.

  

  A template like Soffee helps you learn how to present a PowerPoint easily with a pre-built design.

  Try using PowerPoint to create social media posts. It helps you engage with your audience, with no need to design custom layouts from scratch.

  59. Be Industry-Specific

  One of the top presentation tips in 2024 is to be industry-specific. That means avoiding generic layouts and choosing something more customized.

  This offers two key advantages. First, you save time by having layouts built for you. Second, you gain design inspiration for your specific topic. Themed templates are truly the best of both worlds.

  

  The Medical and Health template is a good PowerPoint presentation with a set theme.

  60. Design for Online (Virtual) Sharing

  Last but not least in our list of PowerPoint tips comes virtual presenting. More and more often, slides will be shared with online audiences around the globe.

  Why not design your slides for that very purpose? And then learn how to share flawlessly with a global team? It’s one of the top presentation tips for 2024. Embrace it today.

  More Great PowerPoint Tutorial Resources

  We’ve built a resource for Microsoft PowerPoint that you’re sure to want to try. It includes countless PowerPoint tips and tricks. It’s called How to Use PowerPoint (Ultimate Tutorial Guide) and has all the PowerPoint design tips you need.

  Discover More Top PowerPoint Template Designs From Envato Elements for 2024

  You’ve just seen our favorite powerful PowerPoint presentation tips and guidelines to help you improve your speaking. We’ve also mentioned Envato Elements, an incredible all-you-can-download source for top PowerPoint designs .

  Here are five of the best PowerPoint templates that you can use to create your best presentation yet:

  1. Galaxi PowerPoint Template

  Blast off to success with the help of this PowerPoint template! Think of the pre-built slide designs as pro PowerPoint design tips. They’re built by professional graphic designers. All the popular and modern slide styles that are perfect for your next presentation. Use Galaxi’s five styles and 30 designs to create a great presentation.

  2. Masmax PowerPoint Template

  

  We selected templates for this article that match the PowerPoint tips and tricks provided. Masmax fits the bill perfectly across its 234 unique slide designs. These slide designs are sure to align with the latest in design expectations.

  3. STYLE Multipurpose PowerPoint Template V50

  

  Style is subjective, but we can all agree that this template is stunning! The light and airy slide designs are built with fashion-focused designs in mind. But that doesn’t mean that it’s not perfect for most presentations. When learning to present a PowerPoint, remember that templates can be customized to suit your purpose.

  4. Peachme Creative PowerPoint Template

  

  Peachme has image-focused slides with splashy designs. The slides are colorful and perfect for a modern presentation. Don’t worry about remembering all the PowerPoint design tips because they’re included in the pre-built slides. Use Peachme’s designs for your presentation today.

  5. Buizi Office Building Rent PowerPoint Template

  

  Buizi markets itself as a real estate focused template. It’s ideal for that purpose because of the minimal, image-focused slide designs. But that also makes it a perfect choice for presentations in many fields.

  We’ve just scratched the surface of PowerPoint design tips with these five options. Here are many more, bundled inside of the best roundups on Envato Tuts+:

  How to Build a Good PowerPoint Presentation Quickly (In 2024)

  You’ve already seen effective presentation skills PPT techniques. But you may be wondering exactly how to do a good PowerPoint presentation. It only takes a few clicks. Let’s learn how in just five steps.

  For this mini-tutorial, we’ll use the Enjoy PowerPoint Template from Envato Elements. You’ll see that it’s a beautiful template that helps you learn how to present a PowerPoint by giving you every object and layout you need.

  

  Let’s get started:

  1. Choose Your Slides

  As you can see, a template like Enjoy has dozens of unique slides inside. The key to how to give a good presentation PPT is to choose only the slides that you need.

  

  One of the best PowerPoint tricks is to start by selecting slides you wish to use from your template.

  In PowerPoint, scroll through the sidebar on the left to view different slide layouts. Right-click and choose Delete to remove unwanted designs. Plus, you can click and drag slide thumbnails to reorder them in the deck.

  2. Add Text

  Consider how to do a good PowerPoint presentation without investing a ton of time. That’s where premium templates come in.

  

  One of our top presentation tips when working with a PPT is to lean on the pre-built text boxes for your content.

  To add custom text, simply click and select the contents of any text box on your slide. Then, type in your own words. Repeat as needed throughout your slide deck.

  3. Customize Fonts

  With text selected, it’s easy to customize fonts on each slide. Find the Font section on PowerPoint’s Home tab. From there, you’ve got a variety of dropdown options.

  

  Another of our top tips for presentation tricks is to use a custom font setting in your template.

  Click to change the font, font size, and more. You can also use the buttons on the left to add bolds, italics, and more.

  Need more custom font styles? As an Envato Elements subscriber, you’ve got instant access to thousands of custom fonts . Use them in your presentation with ease.

  4. Insert Images

  Slides like this one contain an image placeholder. That’s another advantage found only with premium templates. These make adding images a breeze.

  

  Add images to your PPTX template for more visually interesting slides.

  To get started, find an image file stored on your computer. Then, drag and drop it over the placeholder. PowerPoint will import it, sized and scaled for a perfect fit.

  5. Change Colors

  One of the top effective presentation skills is changing shape colors. This helps you control the look and feel of each slide.

  

  With a shape selected, find the Shape Format tab on PowerPoint’s ribbon. Then, click on the Shape Fill dropdown. You’ll see a color chooser menu appear. Click on any thumbnail to apply it to the shape or browse through the Gradient and Texture options.

  Start Putting These PowerPoint Presentation Tips & Tricks Into Use Today!

  Learning to write, design, and present a PowerPoint presentation is an invaluable skill, no matter where you use it. If you’re a good communicator of important messages, you’ll never go hungry.

  Luckily, improving PowerPoint presentations isn’t as hard as it seems. Follow these tips for PowerPoint presentations to design and deliver with greater confidence.

  Remember: Less is more (effective) . Use PowerPoint presentation templates for better design and more effective visual impact. And you can customize a PPT template quickly , with the right workflow.

  Related Articles

  
  

  15 Powerful Persuasive Speech Examples to Inspire Your Next Talk

  • The Speaker Lab
  • June 24, 2024

  Table of Contents

  Crafting a persuasive speech that captivates your audience and drives them to action is no easy feat. If you’re hitting the books, climbing the corporate ladder, or just dreaming of rocking the stage with your speeches, having a killer set of persuasive speech examples can totally change your game. In this post, we’ve curated some of the most compelling and inspiring persuasive speech examples to help you elevate your own speaking skills. So buckle up and grab your pen, because we’re diving into the secrets behind these unforgettable speeches.

  What is a Persuasive Speech?

  When we talk about a persuasive speech , we refer to a form of communication that seeks to influence the audience’s beliefs or actions. In the course of a persuasive speech, a person will present compelling arguments—backed by evidence and persuasive techniques—in order to convince listeners to embrace a specific viewpoint or take a particular course of action. Persuasive speeches are used in many different areas of life, such as in a school or university setting, in a job, or in a social setting.

  When preparing to give a persuasive speech, always choose a topic or cause you’re interested in and passionate about. If you want to convince other people to agree with your stance, you must be seen to believe in it yourself. In addition, it helps to choose a topic that people care about and hasn’t been overdone.

  Funny Persuasive Speech Examples

  Looking for some funny persuasive speech examples to inspire your next presentation? You’ve come to the right place. Humor is a powerful tool when it comes to persuasion. It can help you connect with your audience, make your message more memorable, and even diffuse tension around controversial topics.

  One classic example comes from David McCullough, Jr.’s high school commencement speech entitled “You Are Not Special.” While the title might not sound funny, McCullough delivers a hilarious reality check to graduates, poking fun at the coddling and praise they’ve received growing up. His ultimate message—that true success comes from hard work and taking risks—is made all the more powerful by his humorous approach.

  But what makes funny persuasive speeches so effective? For one, humor helps the speakers build rapport with their audiences. Laughter is a shared experience that brings people together and makes them more open to new ideas. Additionally, injecting some levity into a speech can make the overall message more palatable and less preachy.

  Of course, using humor in a persuasive speech requires some finesse. The jokes should be tasteful, relevant to your overall message, and not offensive to your audience. When in doubt, err on the side of caution. After all, a flat joke is better than one that leaves listeners cringing.

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  Persuasive Speech Examples About Public Policy

  Policy persuasive speeches advocate for a particular course of action on a public policy issue. These speeches go beyond simply raising awareness about a problem – they propose concrete solutions and try to sway the audience to support a specific plan.

  One powerful policy persuasive speech example comes from Greta Thunberg’s address to the UN Climate Action Summit in 2019 . Thunberg doesn’t mince words when lambasting world leaders for their inaction on climate change. But she also lays out clear policy demands, like immediately halting fossil fuel subsidies and drastically reducing carbon emissions. Her message is clear: we know what needs to be done and we need to do it.

  When crafting your own policy persuasive speech, it’s important to back up your arguments with solid evidence. Use statistics, expert testimony, and real-world examples to show why your proposed solution is feasible and necessary. Anticipate counterarguments and address them head-on. And most importantly, make a clear call to action. Ask yourself: what exactly do you want your audience to do to support your policy goals?

  Value Persuasive Speech Examples

  Value persuasive speeches aim to change people’s beliefs or attitudes about a particular issue. Rather than advocating for a specific policy, these speeches try to shift the audience’s underlying values and assumptions.

  A classic example of a value persuasive speech is Mary McLeod Bethune’s “ What Does American Democracy Mean to Me? ” address. As an African American woman born into poverty, Bethune faced countless obstacles and injustices throughout her life. But in this speech, she reframes the narrative around American democracy, arguing that our nation’s highest ideals are worth fighting for, even if we haven’t yet lived up to them. By appealing to shared values like freedom, justice, and equality, Bethune inspires her audience to keep pushing for change.

  The key to a successful value persuasive speech is tapping into your audience’s existing beliefs and values. Use vivid language and storytelling to paint a picture of the world you want to see. Make your case in moral and ethical terms, not just practical ones. And don’t be afraid to show some vulnerability. By sharing your own experiences and struggles, you can create an emotional connection with your listeners.

  Persuasive Speech Examples About Social Issues

  Social issues make for compelling persuasive speech topics because they touch on deeply held beliefs and affect people’s everyday lives. Whether you’re talking about racial justice, gender equality, or income inequality, these speeches require a deft touch and a willingness to engage with complex, often controversial ideas.

  Talking About Mental Health

  One powerful example of a persuasive speech about mental health is Kevin Breel’s “ Confessions of a Depressed Comic ” from TEDxKids@Ambleside. As a stand-up comedian, Breel knows how to get laughs, but he also knows the pain of living with depression. In this speech, he shares his own story of struggling with mental illness and calls on society to break the stigma around talking about mental health. By speaking vulnerably, Breel makes a compelling case for why we need to take depression seriously and support those who are struggling.

  Addressing Physical Health

  Another great example of a persuasive speech about health is Jamie Oliver’s TED Talk “ Teach Every Child About Food .” As a celebrity chef, Oliver has seen firsthand the impact of poor nutrition on people’s health. In this speech, he makes a passionate plea for better food education in schools, arguing that it’s a matter of life and death. With shocking statistics and personal anecdotes, Oliver paints a grim picture of the obesity epidemic and calls on parents, educators, and policymakers to take action.

  Persuasive Speech Examples About the Environment

  Environmental issues are some of the most pressing challenges we face as a society. From climate change to pollution to habitat destruction, the stakes couldn’t be higher. That’s why persuasive speeches about the environment are so important. By inspiring people to take action, they make a true difference.

  One of the most famous environmental speeches of all time is Al Gore’s “An Inconvenient Truth” lecture, which was later turned into an Academy Award-winning documentary. In this speech, Gore lays out the scientific evidence for climate change and argues that we have a moral imperative to act. With compelling visuals and a sense of urgency, Gore makes a powerful case for why we need to reduce our carbon footprint and transition to renewable energy sources.

  Another great example of an environmental persuasive speech is Severn Suzuki’s address to the UN Earth Summit in 1992. At just 12 years old, Suzuki delivered a heartfelt plea for action on behalf of her generation, arguing that adults were stealing children’s future by destroying the planet. Her speech went viral and helped galvanize the youth environmental movement. By speaking from the heart and calling out the hypocrisy of world leaders, Suzuki showed that you’re never too young to make a difference.

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  FAQs on Persuasive Speech Examples

  What are some examples of a persuasive speech.

  Think climate change action, voting rights, or the importance of mental health awareness. They push for change.

  What are 5 examples of persuasive essay?

  Gun control laws, school uniforms debate, death penalty perspectives, animal testing ethics, and social media impacts make the list.

  What’s an easy persuasive speech topic?

  “Why recycling matters” is straightforward and impactful. It connects with everyday actions and broader environmental goals.

  What is an example of a persuasive statement?

  “Switching to renewable energy sources can significantly reduce our carbon footprint.” This urges action towards sustainability.

  Persuasive speech examples show us how to inspire, motivate, and transform the way we communicate our ideas to the world. By studying these remarkable speeches, you’ve gained valuable insights into the art of persuasion and the techniques that make a speech truly unforgettable.

  Remember, winning people over with your words takes more than just knowing the right things to say. It’s about practice, caring deeply, and tuning into the folks listening. Take the lessons you’ve learned from these examples and apply them to your own unique style and message. Pouring your soul into your speech can truly move an audience emotionally, altering their thinking for good.

  Now your moment in the spotlight is here, so show off those persuasive speech skills. Go forth and create a speech that not only informs and entertains but also inspires and empowers your audience to take meaningful action. The world is waiting to hear your voice, so make it count!

  • Last Updated: June 21, 2024
  

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  More From Forbes

  How to make your presentation sound more like a conversation.

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  The main difference between strong, confident speakers and speakers who seem nervous in front of the room is in how relaxed and conversational they appear. Here are some basic pointers that will help you create a conversational tone when speaking, regardless of the size of your audience.

  1. Avoid using the word, “presentation.” Every time you say, “I’m here to give you a presentation on X,” or, “In this presentation, you’ll see…,” you are emphasizing the formal, structured, sometimes artificial nature of the interaction. No one wants to be “presented” to. Instead, use language that emphasizes a natural, conversational exchange. “We’re here today to talk about X,” or “Today I’ll be sharing some ideas regarding Y.” You can even go so far as to say, “I’m glad we have time together today to discuss Z.” Even if your talk is not going to truly be a dialogue, you can use language that suggests engagement with the audience.

  2. If you are using PowerPoint, avoid using the word “slide.” Instead of talking about the medium, talk about the concepts. Swap out, “This slide shows you…,” for, “Here we see….” Instead of saying, “On that slide I showed you a moment ago,” say, “A moment ago we were discussing X. Here’s how that issue will impact Y and Z.” Casual conversations don’t usually involve slide decks. Just because your complicated presentation on tax exposure, supply chain issues, or new health care regulations requires you to use slides, doesn’t mean you have to draw attention to that fact that the setting is formal and structured.

  3. For many large-group events, speakers are provided with what’s called a “confidence monitor,” a computer screen that sits on the floor at the speaker’s feet showing the slide that appears on the large screen above the speaker’s head. Avoid using confidence monitors. Our natural inclination when using a confidence monitor is to gesture at the bullet point we’re discussing at the moment. However, we are pointing to a bullet point on the screen at our feet, which the audience can’t see, so it creates a disconnect between us and the audience. Instead, stand to the side of the large screen and gesture at the bullet point you’re talking about so that the audience knows which point you are discussing at the moment.

  4. Don’t tell your audience, “I want this to be interactive.” It’s your job to make it interactive. If you are delivering the type of presentation where your audience size allows you to create true engagement with your listeners, create that connecting in stages to “warm up” the audience. Stage One engagement is to ask the audience a question relevant to your topic that you know most of the audience members can respond to affirmatively. “Who here has ever bought a new car?” or, “How many of you have ever waited more than 5 minutes on hold on a customer service line?” Raise your hand as you ask the question to indicate to the audience how to respond. Whoever has raised their hand has now participated in the discussion. They have indicated a willingness to engage. Stage Two engagement is calling on one of the people who raised their hand and asking a specific, perfunctory question. Again, it needs to be a question they can answer easily. If your first questions is, “Who here has bought a new car?” you can then call on someone and ask, “How long ago,” or “What kind of car did you buy most recently?” If your first question was, “Have you ever waited on hold for more than 5 minutes,” you can’t ask, “What company were you calling at the time?” The people who raised their hands weren’t thinking of a specific instance; they were just thinking broadly about that type of experience. You could, however, call on someone and ask, “Do you prefer when they play music or ads for the company’s products?” Anyone can answer that question. At that point, you are in an actual dialogue with that person. Stage Three engagement is asking them a question where they need to reveal something more personal. “How does that make you feel when you hear those ads?” You’ve warmed up your audience and drawn them in with baby steps. Now you have actual, meaningful audience participation.

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  5. Use gestures. When we’re speaking in an informal setting, we all use hand gestures; some people use more than others, but we all use them. When we try to rein in our gestures, two things happen that diminish our speaking style. First, we look stiff and unnatural. We look like we are presenting a guarded or cautious version of ourselves; we look less genuine. Second, hand gestures burn up the nervous energy we all have when speaking in front of a large group. That’s good. When we try to minimize our hand gestures, we tie up that nervous energy and it starts to leak out on odd ways, where we start to tap our foot, fidget with our notes or microphone, or tilt our head side to side to emphasize key points. Just let the gestures fly. It’s unlikely they will be too large or distracting. I have coached people on their presentation skills for 26 years. In that time, I have met three people who gestured too much. Everyone else would benefit from using their gestures more freely.

  The impact we have as communicators is based on the cumulative effect of many different elements of our delivery. These suggestions alone won’t make you a terrific presenter. They will, however, add to the overall package your present of yourself when speaking to large audiences.

  
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  Microsoft 365 Life Hacks > Presentations > How to introduce yourself in a presentation

  How to introduce yourself in a presentation

  A well-executed presentation should captivate your audience and listeners. The first step to gaining their attention is creating an engaging introduction. Learn why presentation introductions are important and how to properly execute one for your presentation.

  

  Why are presentation introductions important?

  Presentation delivery impacts your audience’s reception and listening skills. A dull delivery can deter listeners and potentially leave them disinterested. Conversely, an effective delivery can engage your audience, promote active listening, and stimulate substantive discussion.

  Presentation introductions also help to establish the outline of your presentation and give the audience an idea of what is to come. Introductions play a crucial role in captivating listeners from the onset and building momentum. They address who you are, why the audience should be invested, state the topic, establish credibility, preview the main points, and establish the cadence and tone of your presentation. Before you dive into the content of your presentation, ensure you establish an effective introduction to captivate your audience.

  

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  How to begin a presentation introduction

  To establish rapport with your audience, here are some tips to effectively introduce yourself and your presentation:

  Be clear and concise

  A succinct introduction makes it easier for your audience to follow. Keep your introduction simple, short, and include only necessary information. State your name and topic clearly so your audience knows you from the beginning. Avoid unnecessary details or lengthy anecdotes in your introduction to keep things focused and to the point.

  Provide pertinent background information

  In addition to your name and topic, highlight anything else that is relevant. You can include your education, work background, qualifications, and other information. Most importantly, ensure the information you disclose is directly relevant to yourself and presentation.

  Create a hook or attention getter

  Once you’ve established your name and topic, create an engaging hook or attention getter. Your introduction can be funny, clever, or it can captivate your audience. Have fun creating an introduction, but be sure to align your tone and delivery to your audience.

  Outline your presentation

  Let your audience know what your will be discussing. Establish a roadmap of your presentation: outline your contents, topics, and main points in an easily digestible format. This makes it easier for your audience to follow your presentation and prepare for its contents.

  Practice and refine

  Once you’ve created a solid introduction, rehearse your introduction until the delivery is organic and smooth. Confidence is key for an optimal delivery. Speak clearly, practice eye contact, and use storytelling to engage your audience.

  Be authentic

  Above all, be yourself—authenticity helps you build trust and connection with your audience. Carry you character, speech, and personality into your presentation to draw in your audience.

  A successful introduction establishes tone, cadence, topic, and showcases your personality. Gain your audience’s attention and effectively deliver your presentation with an effective introduction. For more ways to engage your audience and improve presentation delivery , learn more presentation tips .

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