Communication with Outside Stakeholders is Key for Any Business

As with Other Types of Communication in Business Settings, Information Flow is Key
As with other types of workplace communication, information flow is important. Many people see a lack of information flow as a sign of trouble, so make sure to be consistent in your level of communication through progress reports or status briefings even if there isn’t a major development to report. Strategic ambiguity may be useful in some situations, but too much ambiguity also leads to suspicions that can damage a provider-client relationship. Make sure your nonverbal communication doesn’t contradict your verbal communication.
How to Prepare a Presentation for Clients, Customers, or Funding Sources
When preparing for a presentation to clients, customers, or funding sources, start to establish a relationship before actually presenting.
This will help you understand what they want and need and will allow you to tailor your presentation to their needs.
These interactions also help establish rapport, which can increase your credibility. Many people making a proposal mistakenly focus on themselves or their product or service.
Focus instead on the needs of the client.
Listen closely to what they say and then explain their needs as you see them and how your product or service will satisfy those needs. Focus on the positive consequences or benefits that will result from initiating a business relationship with you.
There is a persuasive speaking model called Monroe’s Motivated Sequence which can be useful to organize your thoughts.
This will help you understand what they want and need and will allow you to tailor your presentation to their needs.
These interactions also help establish rapport, which can increase your credibility. Many people making a proposal mistakenly focus on themselves or their product or service.
Focus instead on the needs of the client.
Listen closely to what they say and then explain their needs as you see them and how your product or service will satisfy those needs. Focus on the positive consequences or benefits that will result from initiating a business relationship with you.
There is a persuasive speaking model called Monroe’s Motivated Sequence which can be useful to organize your thoughts.
Be Prepared to Adapt Your Presentation on the Spot and Focus On Your “Money Slide”
Proposals and pitches may be cut short, so imagine what you would do if you arrived to present and were told that you had to cut it down to one minute.
If you were prepared, you could focus on your money slide.
If you were prepared, you could focus on your money slide.
Tips for an Effective “Money Slide”
We even offer custom one-on-one coaching to help you deliver winning versions of your elevator speech! Learn more about our one-on-one coaching HERE
Stay informed! Get updates and tips from the Communication Leader Academy.
We don't spam! Unsubscribe anytime!