Presentations can be nerve-wracking, especially if you're a recent graduate stepping into the professional world for the first time. Whether you're pitching an idea, sharing results, or taking part in an assessment day, presenting is an essential skill that will serve you throughout your career.
If you're thinking about a career in sales, it's even more important. Confidence, communication and the ability to engage an audience are all part of what makes a great salesperson and your first presentation is the perfect place to start building those skills.
Before you even start building your slides or notes, think about 'why' you are presenting and 'who' you are presenting to. Are you trying to inform, persuade, or inspire? A good presentation always has a clear objective.
If you're speaking to potential employers or assessors, consider what matters most to them. They'll want to see not just what you know, but how you communicate it. Tailoring your message to your audience shows awareness and professionalism, two traits that stand out in any industry, especially in sales.
A simple structure can make a huge difference. Try this three-part approach:
This logical flow will keep your presentation engaging and easy to follow, just like a good sales pitch.
Build Confidence Through Preparation
Confidence doesn't just happen, it comes from preparation. Rehearse your presentation several times, ideally out loud. Time yourself, record your practice runs and pay attention to your tone and pacing.
Remember that nerves are normal, even experienced presenters get them. The key is to channel that energy positively. Deep breathing, good posture, and practicing your open line until it feels natural can all help you start strong.
In sales, confidence is often what makes the difference between a "maybe" and a "yes". Learning to project calm and self-assurance now will give you a huge advantage later.
Engage Your Audience
Your audience doesn't want to be talked at, they want to be talked to. Make eye contact, smile and use gestures naturally. If appropriate ask questions or invite participation.
In sales, engagement is everything. Whether you're presenting to one person or a room full of people your ability to connect on a human level is what leaves a lasting impression.
Reflect and Improve
Every presentation is a learning experience. After it's over, take a few minutes to reflect on what went well and what could be improved next time. The best communicators in sales are always refining their approach. Think of each presentation as a chance to grow in confidence and skill.
Brining It All Together at Furza's Assessment Day
At Furza's assessment days, one of the key activities is a short three-minute presentation. This is your opportunity to show both Furza and the client who you are - your personality, enthusiasm, and communication skills, the same qualities that make someone successful in the workplace.
We ask for this short presentation because it's more than just a task, it's an opportunity for you to practice sharing your ideas clearly, think on your feet and demonstrate the confidence and professionalism that will help you in your career. You also get immediate experience in presenting to others, which is a valuable skill in any role. Our expert Talent Team will provide you with feedback on your presentation before the day, helping you refine your approach and feel confident going into the day.
Everything covered in this blog, knowing your audience, structuring you talk, practicing for confidence and engaging with your listeners will help you make the most of this opportunity. You don't need to be a polished public speaker; you just need to show that you're motivated, prepared and ready to engage.
When it's your turn, take a deep breath, trust your preparation and focus on sharing your ideas. This is a chance to learn, grow and demonstrate the qualities that will set you apart from other candidates.