What Are the Best Practices for Creating Engaging Presentations?

A great presentation doesn’t just share information—it tells a story, creates a connection, and leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re delivering a keynote on the main stage or sharing a product demo in a breakout room, your visuals, structure, and delivery all need to work together to capture your audience’s attention. 

At LSAV Powerhouse, we’ve supported thousands of high-stakes presentations for global brands, industry leaders, and dynamic event experiences. Here’s what we’ve learned about what works—and what truly resonates.

 Start With a Clear Narrative 

Every presentation should have a story arc. That means more than just an intro, middle, and conclusion—it means guiding your audience through an emotional and intellectual journey. What’s the core message you want them to walk away with? Everything you share should lead up to that. 

Use a simple structure: 

• Hook: Open with something unexpected—a compelling fact, a story, a visual—something that grabs attention fast. 

• Problem: Outline the challenge or opportunity at hand. 

• Solution: Present your key insights, innovations, or strategies. 

• Call to Action: End with clarity—what should your audience feel, think, or do next? 

Design Visually, Not Verbally 

You’re not writing a white paper—you’re telling a story with slides. That means less text, more visuals. Your slides should complement what you’re saying, not compete with it. 

Best practices: 

• Use large, legible fonts (nothing smaller than 24pt). 

• Stick to one key idea per slide. 

• Use strong visuals—images, icons, infographics, animations—to convey information quickly and memorably. 

• Keep your color palette clean and on-brand. Avoid neon gradients and clashing hues unless your aesthetic calls for it. 

Bonus: At LSAV, we often incorporate motion graphics and subtle animation to keep eyes on screen without overwhelming the message.

Rehearse Like You Mean It 

The best presenters don’t wing it—they rehearse. And not just in front of a mirror. Rehearsing with your production team helps you work out timing, transitions, and AV cues. 

Rehearsal also helps you internalize your message. That way, you’re not reading slides—you’re speaking with authority and confidence. 

When LSAV supports speaker coaching or presentation design, we always encourage at least one full tech rehearsal in the show environment. It makes a huge difference in polish and performance. 

Use Technology Thoughtfully 

Interactive tools like live polls, Q&A platforms, or multimedia elements can elevate engagement—if they serve the story. Don’t add tech just to look flashy. Use it to create moments of surprise, reflection, or interaction. 

We’ve used 3D modeling, augmented reality, touchscreen demos, and real-time data visualizations to keep audiences engaged—but only when it enhances clarity and connection.

Read the Room, Then Own It 

Engaging presentations are responsive. Read your audience’s energy. Are they leaning in? Laughing at your opening story? Checking their phones? Adjust in real time—slow down, ask a question, or shift your delivery. 

And remember, confidence is contagious. Own your content, believe in your message, and speak with clarity. Even in a massive ballroom or behind a camera, a confident, present speaker will always draw people in.

At LSAV Powerhouse, we don’t just build presentations—we build moments. 

Our creative and production teams work hand-in-hand with clients to shape presentations that move people—on stage, on screen, and beyond. From graphic design to media integration, speaker support to AV execution, we bring the tools and experience to make your message shine. 

Need help making your next presentation unforgettable? Let’s talk. We’re here to help you bring the energy, clarity, and impact your audience won’t forget.