What would you say about a concert if the last note was off key? Think back to a dance or concert you recently attended. How would you have felt if the performers had suddenly walked off the stage or just stopped playing or dancing right there in front of you? Unfortunately many presenters end their presentations with the unspoken message that they are glad they are done and now they just want to get out of there. Even if you feel like this, never show your audience. You want to conclude with style and confidence giving the impression that you could stand up there another hour and be perfectly content.

Your conclusion is more important than your opening. Your conclusion leads your audience to remember you and your topic or to forget the whole experience. You must save enough energy to be lively and energetic as you summarize.

Here are some ways to conclude with style.

1. Tell a “Just Imagine” Scenario. End your presentation with a story about what will happen after your next steps are implemented. Give your audience a clear, concise visual picture about all the benefits that will occur when they implement your idea, buy your product or engage your services.
2. Present Facts and Statistics. For the logical minded, present a reasonable number of facts and statistics. Even if you have mentioned certain numbers during your talk, you can repeat those few key statistics during your conclusion.
3. Ask for a Decision. You may be giving a presentation in which you want your audience to make a decision at the conclusion of your talk. Ask them to decide. Don’t leave it open ended. You can ask such questions as: “What other information do you need in order to make the decision to purchase this equipment?” “As you’ve listened, what advantages and disadvantages have you thought of in terms of our carrying out the suggested implementation plan?”
4. Summarize Your Major Points. You will have your presentation organized around a theme and in that theme you will have two to three points. Under those points you will have presented facts, statistics, pictures etc. to back up those points. When you conclude remind your audience of your key points.

You will conclude and then probably answer questions. After the questions, you want to conclude again. Why? If you don’t conclude after the question and answer period your presentation could be the victim of the last question.

Prepare another slide to show after the question and answer period. At least prepare two to six sentence that wrap up your talk in a positive and energetic manner. If you are afraid you won’t remember those points, write them on a large piece of paper and have it in front of you as you make your final summary remarks.

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