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20 creative presentation ideas to captivate your audience

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Michael Lee June 17, 2019

The ultimate aim of every presentation is to etch a memorable mark that lingers in the minds of your audience long after the final slide fades away. Memorable presentations should be a creative blend of captivating design, innovative elements, and engaging delivery. To ignite your presentation prowess and set your creativity on fire, we’ve handpicked a treasure trove of 20 ingenious creative presentation ideas that will transform your presentations from bland to brilliantly unforgettable:

1. Experiment with color

It’s surprising what a little color can do. The way you use and pair colors in your presentation design can grab an otherwise disinterested audience member’s attention. Just make sure you do it tastefully and carry the theme across all frames. When in doubt, you can simply choose from one of Prezi’s existing content layouts , each with an appealing color palette.

Try experimenting with a two-toned design by adding different accents to your presentation background and other visual elements. You might start with a black-and-white design, then add a bright pop of one color throughout. Contrasting color palettes (think yellow and blue, pink and mint green, etc.) can also create this eye-popping effect. Alternatively, you can use neutral shades to give off a more subdued vibe.

Another idea? Add a color filter to your images to tie them into your color theme. Learn more about presentation colors in our guide.

2. Use a striking background theme

Looking for more presentation ideas and creative ways to present? Put some thought into your background image, as it’s what your audience will be looking at during the entire presentation. If you want to use a photo, choose one that’s beautiful, sentimental, or has action and flow. Just make sure you pick an image that has enough negative space on which to place text. You can also play around with textures and patterns, such as ripples or wood, or themes that are symbolic of your message, such as a passport, billboard, rocket launch, road trip, etc.

Additionally, make sure your chosen background image isn’t distracting. You want to keep your audience’s focus on the foreground — the graphics, text, and special effects you’ve created. Prezi already has a large library of effective and high-quality backgrounds and images you can search for when designing your presentation, so no need to source them from somewhere else.

3. Put thoughts into speech bubbles

Other creative ways to present information include using speech bubbles to communicate key points to audience members. Use them to illustrate an idea or to reveal a character’s thoughts or fears in your story. Have them pop up as notes or commentary in the frame you’re presenting. Similarly, you can use speech bubbles to show milestones on a timeline. If you’re revealing poll or survey results about a product or service, for instance, place data or participant feedback in bubbles.

But, like anything in a presentation, don’t go overboard with it. While speech bubbles can be a fantastic addition, excessive use might divert your audience’s focus from the core message. So, using speech bubbles in the right places to create impact can be effective for engaging your listeners, but scattering them throughout every slide might be a little excessive and cause the opposite effect. Balance is key when using speech bubbles. 

4. Abandon the slide-by-slide style

Free your presentations from the confines of slides. As an interactive presentation tool, Prezi allows for dynamic designs to take your audience on a journey as you tell your story. Zoom in and out on key points. Navigate between topics and sections of your presentation in any order. Go vertical instead of horizontal. Make transitions between ideas look like pathways or scenes instead of simply clicking sequentially from frame to frame. All of these elements come together to make a memorable presentation.

These types of tactics will give your presentation a cinematic feel that will captivate and inspire your audience. An open canvas design also makes it easier for you to tell a story , which people tend to process and remember more easily than straight facts. Prezi’s ready-made templates and striking graphics make it simple for you to share your narrative via one of these seemingly complex designs. If you want to transform a static PowerPoint presentation into a dynamic moving story, simply upload your file and try Prezi’s PowerPoint Converter feature .

5. Tell your story with a video

Presenters have been incorporating video into their slide decks for decades. Video is one of the most creative ways to present projects. It allows you to tell your story using visuals instead of big blocks of text. Now, however, it’s time to elevate the video so it captures your audience’s attention and enhances your narrative. Embed videos that play automatically when you navigate to certain parts of your Prezi canvas.

Just be sure to use videos that aren’t distracting and that work with the rest of your presentation’s flow. They should still complement your presentation’s overall design theme and message. If you’re not producing a video yourself, you can find thematic ones from stock video sites or on YouTube. Just be aware that you might need permission to use some videos.

It’s important to select videos beforehand and place them strategically so that they hit hard in the right places. Selecting the perfect videos is like choosing gems to adorn your presentation’s crown. These videos should harmonize seamlessly with your content, elevating the story you’re weaving.

Imagine, for instance, using a time-lapse video of a bustling cityscape to represent the rapid pace of change in the business world during your presentation on industry trends. Blending your videos with the theme of your topic in this way goes beyond just catching your audience’s eye, it actually adds depth to your story while also making your message more impactful.

6. Bring your story to life with audio

Another presentation idea to minimize text and maximize audience engagement is to add sound to your presentation. Tell your story using pre-recorded audio. This creative presentation style turns the viewer experience into just that — an experience. While the audio plays, you can move around the stage and navigate to various parts of the presentation that support the narrative visually. Again, the effect is almost movie-like.

Another auditory presentation tool is music. Use music to set the tone of your talk, or inject it periodically to regain the audience’s attention. The appropriate song choice can get the entire audience into the mood of your presentation. Choose upbeat tunes to convey excitement or dramatic ones that will trigger an emotional response . Plus, if you play a catchy tune that sticks in people’s heads, that’ll help them remember your presentation that much more.

7. Add animations

Another creative way to present is by bringing an otherwise static design to life is animation. Go beyond video by borrowing from stop-motion principles for your presentation. Stop motion is a technique in which you film objects one frame at a time to simulate motion in a scene or a story. You can recreate this effect in Prezi by using zoom, fade, and pan animations to tell a moving story frame by frame.

Animations can inspire and engage your audience, but just be sure to use them sparingly and as a complement to your story or message.

7.1. Make it fun with GIFs

Adding animated GIFs to your presentation can not only make it more fun but also help catch your audience’s eye. Because they’re trendy and often reference pop culture or common emotions, GIFs can help you get your point across without having to use just words.

However, it’s crucial to exercise moderation when employing these elements. While animations and GIFs can enhance engagement, excessive use of them can become distracting. There’ll be certain presentation topics or subjects where GIFs will look misplaced, so just make sure you think carefully about whether they correlate with your message before you use them. However, GIFs are a great way to inject humor and light-heartedness right after slides filled with heavy information. When executed skillfully, animations and GIFs transform your presentation into a dynamic and interactive visual journey, leaving an enduring impression on your audience.

8. Create a timeline

The timeline is nothing new. It’s how you apply it to a presentation that can really wow an audience. Prezi’s dynamic designs let you use the timeline as the basis or focal point of the presentation and then navigate along as you tell your story or plan of action.

Zooming in on specific elements of your timeline as you discuss them adds another layer of clarity and focus. It helps make sure your audience stays on track with your story and doesn’t get lost in the details or complexities. This laid-back way of highlighting key moments or steps keeps people interested and makes it easier for them to remember what you’re talking about.

9. Use maps

Deliver a creative presentation with maps, especially if there’s a geographic or location-based topic in your content. Set a map as your background or focal point, and prompt different regions to change colors or pop out as you navigate over them. When it comes to designing maps , make sure you’re purposefully selecting colors, as the color palette you choose can change the way people respond to your data. Don’t pick colors that are too similar when you’re making comparisons, for example. Use Prezi’s zoom function to zero in on areas for more details, or pull back to reveal the larger context.

You can also go the thinking map route, which is a visual learning technique that can convey complex ideas simply and creatively. Start with a central theme, then branch out into paths or surrounding points. The eight variations of thinking maps include circle maps, bubble maps, flow maps, treemaps, and more. These can be effective interactive aids in educational presentations as well as for small businesses.

10. Do away with bulleted lists

To truly transform your presentations, consider stepping away from the conventional bullet-point lists that often lead to passive learning. Instead, harness the power of visuals to inspire active engagement from your audience. Visual content stimulates the brain’s cognitive processes, making your message more memorable. Engage your listeners by replacing bullet points with visuals .

Prezi’s open canvas design is a valuable tool in this transformation. It shifts the focus from passive delivery to interactive engagement. By using visuals, you prompt your audience to actively process and respond to your content, fostering a deeper understanding and connection with your message. This shift from traditional bullet points to a visually driven, interactive approach can significantly enhance the impact of your presentations.

11. Communicate with images

Presentation images are nothing new. However, when standing alone, photographs, paintings, and other images can have a really powerful effect. Instead of trying to talk over an image, use it as a stepping stone in your presentation, a point of reflection. Once in a while, let visuals do the talking.

Also, a study has found that people process visuals 60,000 times faster than text . So, incorporating more images will make your presentation more memorable.

However, be careful with your selection of images – make sure that they’re relevant to the topic and aren’t just filling up an empty space.

Also, If you’re using Prezi for your presentation, you can access a huge library of images that takes away the headache of finding that one perfect shot. It’s like having a cheat code for making your presentation pop. So dive into the library and pick out visuals that’ll make your presentation not just informative, but engaging.

12. Play with transitions

Using slide transitions is one of the simple yet creative ways to present a project. They create visual continuity and add movement to slides. However, choosing the right page transition for your slides is truly a form of art. You have to consider the topic, tone of voice, and your presentation design. Page transitions should match the overall design, create flawless continuity, highlight key areas in your presentation, and do all that without stealing the show. Ultimately, you want it to compliment your presentation.

If you are looking for inspiration, check out Prezi Present ‘s wide selection of templates . You can play with transitions by adding additional animated elements that will make your presentation even more dynamic.

13. Swap for an infographic

To truly stand out and make a lasting impression, consider departing from the traditional slide-based approach and exploring infographics. Infographics are powerful visual tools that condense complex information into digestible, visually appealing formats. Instead of the conventional slide-by-slide progression, imagine scrolling through your presentation, seamlessly transitioning from one section to the next. This fluid movement allows you to verbally expand on key points while displaying the core information visually.

When you’re adding infographics, aim for designs that are easy to understand but also match your brand’s vibe. You want something that looks good and fits well with the rest of your presentation, so everything feels like it’s part of the same story. This helps make your presentation both easy to follow and hard to forget.

14. Get social

Employing a unique hashtag associated with your brand can significantly amplify the impact of your presentation, extending its reach far beyond the confines of the physical venue. This hashtag acts as a vital link between your presentation and the vast world of social media. Inviting your audience to dive into the live-tweet action with a dedicated hashtag during your talk isn’t just a savvy move; it’s a dynamic double play. You expand your reach, drawing in more eager participants, while simultaneously igniting a thriving online symphony of ongoing discussions and insights.

This approach effectively transforms your presentation into an active, two-way conversation. As you speak, people can immediately share their thoughts, favorite parts, and main lessons, creating a sense of togetherness and active involvement. Furthermore, the utilization of a branded hashtag allows you to monitor and engage in these conversations, strengthening your connection with your audience and providing an avenue for addressing questions or feedback. 

Even after your presentation concludes, these online discussions continue to thrive, ensuring that your message remains fresh in the minds of your audience members long after they’ve left the physical venue. This lively and extended interaction adds an exciting twist to your presentations, transforming them from just informative sessions into lively hubs of ongoing conversation and learning.

15. Use creative props

Physical props add a memorable dimension to your talk. Props serve as powerful visual aids, helping to illustrate key points, provide tangible examples, and offer visual cues. Props can be particularly useful for educational presentations, especially if you need to demonstrate an example. Another situation where props are paramount is if you are a brand that’s launching a new product and doing a promotional presentation. 

With Prezi’s creative tools at the forefront of your presentation along with your latest product at hand- you’re bound to persuade your audience. Integrating props at the right time in connection to your current presentation can really create a connection between you and your listeners. Put yourself in your audience’s shoes, would you take in the information by just reading and listening, or would seeing and touching physical props add a layer of interest that enhances your mental absorption?

16. Utilize virtual reality (VR)

VR technology allows you to transport your audience into a different environment or scenario closely related to your presentation topic. Transforming your presentation into a new virtual world takes it far beyond the expectations of mundane slide-by-slide presentations.

With VR, you can engage your audience with a dynamic three-dimensional world where they become active explorers, engaging directly with your content. Picture this: You’re showing off architectural wonders, recreating epic historical events, or unraveling the inner workings of intricate systems. VR takes your presentations to a whole new level, letting your audience not only see and hear but also experience and genuinely feel your message. It’s like inviting them to step right into the heart of your story.

17. Use gamification

Picture turning your presentation into an exhilarating game that dares to captivate and thrill your audience. When you add a little playfulness to your presentation, your audience is going to absorb your information without it feeling like a chore. Making aspects of your talk into fun learning experiences is going to keep your audience switched on throughout the whole presentation. 

You can achieve this by incorporating various interactive elements like puzzles, questions, or interactive storytelling that turn your presentation into an immersive and educational game. Encouraging your audience to think and respond will result in active participants rather than passive observers. 

18. Employ live demonstrations

Incorporating live demonstrations into your presentation is a potent strategy for effectively conveying your message. Whether you’re showcasing a product’s functionality, conducting a captivating science experiment, or engaging your audience in a hands-on activity, live demonstrations actively involve your audience and leave an enduring mark.

Live demonstrations can transform presentations into captivating journeys where your audience doesn’t just listen but also witnesses concepts coming to life before their eyes. This physical approach creates curiosity and entices active participation, effectively transforming your message into something tangible. When people can see, touch, or take part in live demonstrations, it makes a strong connection. It brings your audience right into your content and makes sure they take the message away with them afterward. 

19. Design comic-style frames 

Using comic strips as a presentation style is great when you want to make your presentation engaging and easy to remember. It works well for topics where you want to tell a story, explain things step by step, or simplify complex information. Comic strips contain the best of both worlds, combining visuals with storytelling. This means they’re versatile for various topics, such as education, marketing, and product demos.

The clever approach of comic strips crafts an animated, captivating experience that keeps your audience glued to their seats and sparks their eagerness to participate. Not only that, but it also makes your message highly memorable.

Creating a comic strip in Prezi is straightforward. Start by planning your content and breaking it down into bite-size sections that will be arranged in sequence. Then, use Prezi’s features to design each section as a comic frame, inserting relevant visuals and images. Prezi’s text and shape tools help you add speech bubbles or captions to guide the story you’re telling. As you present, take on the role of a storyteller, guiding your audience through each frame of your comic strip presentation with captivating explanations that hold their attention.

20. Emulate the style of TED talks

The TED-style approach is a powerful method of delivering presentations that revolves around the core principles of clarity, simplicity, emotional resonance, and compelling storytelling. In this approach, speakers focus on distilling complex ideas into easily digestible narratives, using relatable language and impactful visuals to engage their audience. TED-style talks typically center on a single compelling idea , conveyed with passion and authenticity, making them concise, memorable, and inspiring for a wide range of viewers.

Learn how you can excel in storytelling and develop TED Talk presentation skills in the following video:

Staying current with creative presentation ideas

Just as technology and communication methods constantly change, so do presentation audience preferences and expectations. Keeping your creative presentation ideas fresh and aligned with contemporary trends can significantly impact your effectiveness as a presenter.

Why keeping up matters

Adapting to audience expectations.

This is the key to making a memorable impact with your presentations. In the modern world, audiences want more than the ordinary; they seek thrilling, dynamic experiences. To make this happen, you must wholeheartedly embrace cutting-edge technologies and innovative concepts to make your presentations highly engaging. So, why stick with the mundane when you can captivate your audience’s imagination and curiosity with creative presentation ideas? Break free from the conventional and explore new concepts using Prezi. 

Maintaining relevance

Staying relevant is the cornerstone of success. To connect deeply with your audience, demonstrate your strong dedication to delivering top-notch content consistently. Your presentations should stand out with innovation and creativity, signaling that you’re not merely keeping pace with the times – you’re setting the tempo. With Prezi’s toolbox, you’ll be ready to explore a range of creative presentation ideas that leave a lasting impression on your audience. 

Fueling engagement

Elevating your presentations from mere information-sharing sessions to immersive experiences can be a game-changer. By staying in the loop on fresh creative presentation ideas and cool interactive tricks, you’re all set to captivate your audience. Adding some of these new, interactive touches can help you grab and keep people’s attention way better than just repeating the same slideshows.

Where to get your inspo 

If you’re ready to improve your creative game, there are plenty of helpful blogs, webinars, and online courses about fun presentation ideas you can dive into. Prezi offers a lot of useful tips for making your presentations stand out. Think of Prezi as your toolbox, always within reach to unlock your presentation’s potential and make a lasting impression. For presentation inspiration , check out Prezi’s presentation gallery and explore our highly engaging and creative templates .

Watch this video and learn more about creative presentation ideas:

Get inspired for more presentation ideas

The world isn’t flat, and your presentations shouldn’t be, either. Step outside your comfort zone, and play around with these 20 creative ways to present. Better yet, come up with your own creative ways to present and incorporate them into one of Prezi’s dynamic content layouts. Using this presentation software’s open canvas approach, you can tell your story conversationally and spontaneously so that audience members will engage with and remember.

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120 Presentation Topic Ideas Help You Hook Your Audience

Updated: January 15, 2024

Published: August 09, 2023

Cooking is easy. The puzzle is figuring out what to eat. As soon as you know that, you can get started. The same holds for presentations. The sooner you can whip up a good, informative, and catchy topic, the easier the rest of the process becomes.

Pick a good topic that resonates with you and your audience to set a strong foundation. But select the wrong topic, and it becomes difficult to connect with your audience, find mutual interests, or hold their attention.

So, let’s learn how to develop thought-provoking and relevant topics for your presentations. You’ll also find some best practices to make your presentation memorable.

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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Great Presentation Topic in 5 Steps

120 presentation topic ideas, 5 presentation tips.

4. Choose an appropriate presentation style.

There are many ways to present a topic. Your personality, the topic at hand, and your audience’s personas will help you determine which style would best fit you and your audience.

Select a presentation style that will communicate the main idea clearly and have a lasting impact on your audience.

For instance, explore a freeform style presenter by Sir Ken Robinson.

5. Engage with your audience.

Work on your presentation skills to make a strong connection with your audience, get through to them and leave a mark.

Think of the presenter as the link between the topic and the audience. A strong or a weak presenter can make a difference between a presentation being a thriving success or a boring failure.

Hone your skills by engaging and interacting with your audience. Make them feel like a part of the presentation and not just spectators. 70% of marketers have found presentations with interactive content to be more effective than those without.

Here are a few ways you can make your presentation interactive:

• Start your speech with uncommon questions to your audience. Involve them from the get-go, like ask to raise their hands if X.
• Make eye contact to build credibility and show confidence. Don’t stare at your slides or notes. Smile occasionally and talk to the audience directly.
• Have an active and confident body language. Don’t stand in the same place the entire time. Move around the stage.
• Don’t be monotonous. Speak as you would to a colleague — with enthusiasm.
• Ask close-ended questions in between to keep the audience engaged without losing time. Address them using their names to keep things interesting.
• Share personal experiences and stories that your audience will find fascinating and relatable.
• Practice thoroughly before you present so you’re fluent with the material and delivery.
• Energy and excitement can be quite contagious. Make sure you exude enough to spread some to your audience.

Feeling Inspired Yet?

Now you have all the right ingredients for choosing amazing topics and a hundred ideas to drive inspiration from. So, go ahead and start cooking presentations that will blow your audience away.

Don’t forget to choose a super-relevant topic and add meaty information. Do it with excitement to make it enjoyable for you and your audience. Best of luck!

Don't forget to share this post!

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1) structure your presentation like a story, 2) make it minimalist, never design a presentation again, 3) color theory is your friend, 4) black and white with pops of color, 5) add music to your presentation, 6) ask your audience questions, 7) visualize your data with engaging graphics, 8) pop culture can be your friend, 9) pair fonts to keep your presentation dynamic, 10) make the right impression with visual metaphors, 11) place your images into unique frames, 12) juice up your presentation transitions, 13) turn your presentation into one moving slide, 14) make room for quotes, 15) get your presentation ideas from history, 16) engage your audience with activities, 17) give your presentation a seasonal theme, 18) be forward thinking with a futuristic design, 19) keep it fresh with a modern presentation, 20) enter a new dimension with 3d graphics, 21) come up with a motif inspired by your content, 22) include your logo in every slide, 23) color code your themes, 24) make it fun with gifs, 25) shoot for the moon with an outer space theme, 26) keep it lighthearted with humor and memes, 27) format each slide like a social media post, 28) bring your presentation to life with motion graphics, 29) get everyone involved with interactive elements, 30) make it cohesive with photo overlays, 31) alternate your slide formats, bonus: give your presentation a pro polish with penji, 31 creative presentation ideas to captivate your audience.

Presentations are about sharing important info with the right folks – bosses, coworkers, or future clients. Making a good impression matters, and a creative presentation can push you ahead.

Stuck on how to begin? Check out these 31 awesome presentation ideas to spark your next successful pitch.

A fantastic presentation carries its audience through a journey. Consider your key message as the driving force that propels the audience through the storyline of your presentation. You can deconstruct it as follows:

• The current situation : Where are we now?
• The transition : What’s changing?
• The future : What’s on the horizon?
• The conclusion : Where will we ultimately land?

Especially in a business setting, you want your PowerPoint design to be simple, stylish, and inviting. Minimalism can be a great way to give your presentation slides a professional look without sacrificing style. A simple backdrop also helps important facts and figures stand out.

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As you’re designing your presentation, remember to use colors that complement each other. Is your company’s color pale green? Combine it with an equally pale pink. To get more in-depth, there are plenty of tools online like Coolors that help you make full color palettes.

On the other end of the spectrum (no pun intended), sometimes one color is all you need. For a more minimal presentation, a black and white aesthetic with a single accent color can really stand out. You can use that color to emphasize key facts and figures, because the audience is already drawn to it.

Want to take your presentation up a notch from mere static slides? Harness the power of musical cues – a swift and engaging strategy. While incorporating music into slideshows can sometimes lead to technical hitches, mastering the technique can yield remarkable audience engagement.

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“How do I engage my audience?” Have you tried talking to them? Question and answer sections can be a great tool for team-building presentations, and they can turn potential buyers into engaged participants.

Try creating questions that will feed into your point. Rather than saying “You need ___,” ask your audience what they need and bring it back around to your product or service.

Data visualization is a key part of any presentation (okay, most presentations). Looking for presentation ideas to make your data pop? Don’t settle for basic charts.

Highlight key figures with bold fonts and colors. Use imagery that conveys what your data means. It’s easy to zone out in a meeting—it’s up to you to visualize data in a way people can’t ignore.

Whether you’re guiding a team meeting or captivating customers, pop culture references can pique interest and bridge gaps. Even in formal presentations, a quick pop culture nod can foster connection. But always consider your audience—avoid references that might leave them puzzled.

A common error among novices in presentation design is sticking to a single font. To maintain visual interest, embrace diversity. Experiment with eye-catching fonts for titles, complemented by polished sans-serif fonts for body text. Further enhance variety with distinct weights, styles, and colors for various text elements.

Ideally, everyone would pay attention to you. But since you can’t account for that, you want your audience to understand the ideas behind your presentation no matter how much attention they’re paying. On top of emphasizing key data and words, visual metaphors are a great way to ensure that even the least attentive listeners are getting the gist of it.

Is your presentation appearing outdated, confined, and lacking in dynamism? The reason might be your fixation on squares and rectangles.

Incorporating distinctive image frames isn’t just visually appealing; they also expand your slide’s spatial dimension. By steering clear of rigid squares and borders and opting for circles, hexagons, and other shapes, you create a sensation of suspended freedom.

One of the classic marks of a middle schooler’s first PowerPoint: every transition under the sun. Using different transitions for each slide will make your presentation feel amateur. Instead, stick to one style of transition, or make your use of transitions thematically consistent (e.g. moving in the same direction).

This is an advanced transition technique for all you presentation design pros out there. Elevate your slideshow by giving it the sense of a literal living document. You can create a flipbook or folder motif (as in the example above) or create a scrolling graphic format. If nothing else, you can mesh transitions and design to make each slide seamlessly morph into the next.

Whether you’re getting a point across or just trying to inspire your audience, a quote is a great addition to any presentation. Quotes by experts can help lend your point some authority. Meaningful quotes can open up the floor to discussions. Funny or inspirational quotes can provide some levity without sacrificing professionalism.

Much like references to pop culture, integrating historical elements into your presentation provides a shared language with your audience. Like the alien species from the Star Trek episode “Darmok,” incorporating historical moments can resonate deeply with your audience. For instance, if you’re aiming to evoke a sense of romance, a backdrop inspired by Shakespearean times could be remarkably effective.

First of all, yes, a presentation is a great idea for facilitating a group game in a classroom or office setting. But believe it or not, any presentation can benefit from capturing the audience’s attention through activities.

For team-building presentations, build trust and relationships through simple games. For pitches, create space to “test out” your product or service. The possibilities are endless.

Pop culture references can ensure your presentation is current, but depending on your audience, you may have to avoid being too current. Seasonal themes, on the other hand, keep you timely no matter who you’re presenting to. You can go all in on a theme, like the Halloween example above, or incorporate subtle elements for a more corporate presentation.

In the business world, particularly in the tech sector, projecting a cutting-edge image is paramount. When presenting a novel product, service, or strategy, it’s crucial that your audience perceives you as a forward-thinking entity.

That’s where a futuristic design can help. Implement sleek shapes, dark colors, and interactive elements to make your presentation futuristic. Sometimes, it’s as simple as adding images of modern tech products.

Futurism has its place, but if you want to convey a cutting-edge feel in a more subtle way, a modern, artistic presentation design is the way to go. Unique shapes and color combinations—as well as bold, sans serif fonts—can help your slides look effortful and fresh. You can work with an expert designer or design service to really make your presentation unique.

3D illustrations are relatively novel, and even freely available models are underused in presentations. Even in 2022, they still convey a sense of novelty, whether they’re playful, artistic, or scientific. On top of lending flair to your slides, they can also be great for visualizing data in informative presentations.

Elevate your presentation to a masterpiece with a well-chosen motif. Delve into your key presentation points and the emotions you aim to stir.

For instance, a lighthouse motif can symbolize navigating challenges or pioneering innovative solutions. Meanwhile, a whimsical animal theme can evoke a sense of coziness and tranquility. Embrace creativity, while ensuring meaningful content takes the lead.

A presentation can be a great way to propose a new logo design , but your logo is a great fit for any type of presentation. For pitches, they make your brand look professional. For internal meetings, they help make it feel official, boosting engagement from your audience. Design your slides to make room for your logo and try to balance colors and fonts to fit your brand.

While we’ve emphasized the importance of a central theme in your presentation, it’s also true that many presentations encompass various topics or subcategories within the overarching theme. Employing diverse colors to mirror distinct subjects or slide types can infuse your presentation with nuanced depth.

GIFs have become a crucial part of the online ecosystem. However you pronounce it (team “jif,” for the record), a GIF is a casual, effective way to evoke emotion, humor, or otherwise build a relationship with your audience. There’s a reason Twitter is overrun with these things; there’s a GIF for every occasion.

Space is one of the most versatile themes to use in a presentation design . Where a futuristic slideshow places you on the cutting edge, space creates the impression that your ambitions go even bigger. Whether you’re trying to pump up your coworkers or attract new clients, placing your presentation in the final frontier is bound to inspire them.

While certain presentations are all business, remember that public speaking often centers around forging a connection with your audience. A surefire approach to achieve this is by strategically incorporating a meme or a clever punchline.

Yes, it’s true that meme culture travels fast, and it can be hard to tell what will still be fresh when you’re presenting. But if there’s one place where you can get away with an old-school, impact-font -over-JPEG meme in 2022, it’s in a business presentation.

Here’s an out-of-the-box idea: what design layout are people most familiar with today? Chances are, a format inspired by social media is one of the best ways to make your audience feel at home. This is best for a presentation where social media is relevant, but it can also serve a similar function to memes, creating a fun dynamic with your audience. Your slide text shouldn’t be longer than a tweet, anyway.

We’ve already gone over transitions, the animations taking you from one slide to the next. But that doesn’t have to be the only animated thing about your presentation. Motion graphics can help each slide come alive, as well as emphasizing key facts and helping visualize data. Just try not to make the graphics too distracting.

Ever sat through dull vacation photos? Well, a lackluster presentation can feel the same. To truly involve your audience, interactive elements are a must.

Think animations and clickable transitions or even a lighthearted quiz. It’s all about sparking engagement.

Maybe you’re showcasing your photography work. Maybe you’re presenting a product with a series of photos. You might just be using stock photos to illustrate your point.

Either way, most presentations will involve at least a few photos. If you want a slick, artistic look, you can use color overlays and filters to make these photos part of your slides’ aesthetic. Use complementary colors and keep them consistent for each photo you put in, or go black and white for a luxury look.

Here’s a common rookie blunder, and it’s easy to overlook. Even with a striking design and captivating content, if you sense something’s amiss, your presentation could be too monotonous.

To infuse dynamism, mix up slide formats, particularly for text-heavy ones. Just shifting text from left to right can work wonders. It’s a vital trick to keep your audience engrossed.

These presentation ideas are all about shaping a presentation that delivers real results. But if you’re aiming to craft a truly impactful PowerPoint, you might not want to go the DIY route. Opting for a presentation crafted by a certified pro is the ultimate method to impress your audience. And if you want consistently professional designs every time, then you want Penji.

Our unlimited design service works with the world’s top design talent to provide you with stunning presentations, logos, websites, packaging, and everything else you need.

Still have questions? You can request a design today from our marketplace with no strings attached, or sign up for a demo to see how Penji can work for you.

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15 Interactive Presentation Ideas to Elevate Engagement

By Krystle Wong , Aug 04, 2023

As attention spans continue to shrink, the challenge of engaging audiences in a short timeframe has never been more significant. Let’s face it — grabbing and keeping your audience’s attention can be quite the challenge, especially when time is ticking away. But fear not, I’ve got the perfect solution: interactive presentations!

Believe it or not, creating an interactive presentation is easier than you might think. In this guide, I’ll show you how to effortlessly turn ordinary slides into captivating experiences with 15 interactive presentation ideas that will leave your audience begging for more. From quirky polls and fun games to storytelling adventures and multimedia magic, these ideas will take your presentation game to the next level.

Venngage is a game-changer when it comes to empowering interactive presentations. With just a few clicks, users can customize their favorite presentation templates , add multimedia content and create immersive experiences that leave a lasting impact. Whether you’re a seasoned presenter or a newcomer, get started with Venngage to elevate your presentation game to new heights of engagement and creativity.

Click to jump ahead:

What is an interactive presentation?

15 ways to make a presentation interactive, 7 best interactive presentation software, what are some common mistakes to avoid when creating interactive presentations, interactive presentation faqs, how to create an interactive presentation with venngage.

An interactive presentation is a dynamic and engaging communication format that involves active participation and collaboration between the presenter and the audience. Unlike traditional presentations where information is delivered in a one-way manner, interactive presentations invite the audience to interact, respond and contribute throughout the session.

Think of it as a two-way street where you and your audience have a friendly chat. It’s like playing a fun game where you ask questions, get live feedback and encourage people to share their thoughts. 

To make a good presentation , you can utilize various tools and techniques such as clickable buttons, polls, quizzes, discussions and multimedia elements to transform your slides into an interactive presentation. Whether you’re presenting in-person or giving a virtual presentation — when people are actively participating, they’re more likely to remember the stuff you’re talking about.

Interactive presentations leave a lasting impression on the audience. By encouraging active participation and feedback, interactive presentations facilitate better understanding and knowledge retention. Here are 15 innovative 5-minute interactive presentation ideas to captivate your audience from start to finish:

1. Ice-breaker questions

Start your presentation with intriguing and thought-provoking questions or a fun icebreaker game. These questions should be designed to pique the audience’s curiosity and encourage them to think about the topic you’ll be covering. By doing so, you create an immediate connection with your audience and set the stage for a more engaged and attentive audience.

For example, if you’re giving a business presentation about management and leadership training, you could ask audience questions such as “What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received, and how has it impacted your career?”

2. Live polling

Incorporate live polls during your presentation using audience response systems or polling apps. This allows you to collect real-time feedback, opinions and insights from active participants. Live polling encourages active participation and involvement, making your presentation feel like a collaborative and interactive experience.

3. Q&A sessions

Encourage the audience to ask questions throughout your presentation, especially for pitch deck presentations . Address these questions in real-time, which fosters a more interactive and dynamic atmosphere. This approach shows that you value the audience’s input and promotes a two-way communication flow.

4. Clickable buttons

Add clickable buttons to your slides, allowing the audience to navigate to specific sections or external resources at their own pace. For example, you could include links to your social media accounts or extra reading materials in your education presentation to give further information about the topic and get your students engaged. By providing this autonomy, you empower the audience to explore areas of particular interest, creating a more personalized and engaging experience through your interactive slideshow.

5. Storytelling

Incorporate anecdotes or personal stories related to your topic. Storytelling is a powerful way to emotionally connect with your audience, making your presentation more relatable and memorable. A little storytelling along with a set of creative slides draws the audience in and keeps them engaged as they follow the narrative.

6. Interactive charts and graphs

Use interactive charts and graphs that respond to user input to make your presentation interactive. For instance, allow the audience to click on data points to view more detailed information or to change the displayed data series. Creating charts with interactive visuals help the audience interact with the data, fostering better understanding and engagement.

7. Animated infographics

Add animations to your infographics, making them visually dynamic and progressive. Animated infographics reveal information gradually, keeping the audience curious and attentive. This transforms complex data into an easily digestible and engaging format.

Venngage’s extensive library of infographic templates is a powerful tool to visualize data and elevate the interactivity of your presentations. Personalizing the visuals ensures a cohesive and professional look throughout your interactive presentation. The templates are highly customizable, allowing you to adjust colors, fonts, and styles to match your presentation’s theme and branding. 

8. Gamification

Introduce an interactive quiz, puzzles, or challenges related to your presentation content. Gamification adds an element of fun and competition, motivating the audience to participate actively and boosting their learning experience. Here are some gaming presentation templates you could use. 

9. Virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR)

If applicable, leverage VR or AR technologies to provide immersive experiences. These interactive presentation tools transport the audience into a virtual or augmented environment, making your presentation more captivating and memorable.

10. Collaborative whiteboarding

Get your audience involved in your presentation by utilizing digital whiteboards or collaborative tools to brainstorm ideas collectively. This fosters teamwork and creativity, enabling the audience to actively contribute and feel a sense of involvement in the presentation.

11. Hyperlinked text

Keep the information in your slides minimal with a simple presentation and incorporate hyperlinks to direct viewers to relevant websites or blogs , resources, or additional information. This encourages self-exploration and gives the audience the opportunity to delve deeper into topics of interest.

12. Role-playing

Engage the audience in role-playing scenarios to explore different perspectives. Role-playing promotes active learning and helps the audience relate the content to real-life situations, enhancing their understanding and retention.

13. Embedded videos

Include video clips in your slides to provide visual explanations, demonstrations, or interviews. Videos add a dynamic element to your presentation, enriching the content and keeping the audience engaged.

14. Audience-generated content

Encourage the audience to contribute ideas, stories or examples related to your professional presentation . Audience-generated content fosters a sense of ownership and involvement, making the presentation more interactive and personalized.

15. Slide transitions

Use slide transitions to create smooth animations between slides. Well-planned transitions maintain the audience’s interest and keep the presentation slides flowing seamlessly.

Interactive elements aside, enhance your presentation with these guides on how to summarize information for a captivating presentation and how to make a persuasive presentation to captivate your audience. 

If you’re looking to create engaging and interactive presentation slides that captivate your audience, these presentation software options are sure to elevate your game:

Prezi is renowned for its dynamic and non-linear presentation style, enabling users to craft visually stunning and interactive presentations. With an array of templates and animation effects, Prezi enhances audience engagement, making your presentations more captivating and memorable.

2. Mentimeter

Mentimeter serves as an audience response system, empowering real-time interaction during presentations. Users can create interactive polls, quizzes, word clouds and more, allowing the audience to respond using their smartphones or other devices. This fosters active participation and provides valuable feedback instantly.

3. Google Slides

Google Slides is a free cloud-based presentation software that not only offers collaboration features but also enables real-time interactions. It includes add-ons and third-party integrations to further enhance interactivity, making it an excellent choice for collaborative and engaging presentations.

4. Microsoft PowerPoint

PowerPoint, a classic presentation software, has evolved to incorporate more interactive features like live captions, real-time collaboration and interactive elements such as quizzes and forms. With its familiar interface and versatile functionalities, PowerPoint remains a reliable choice for interactive presentations.

5. Prezentor

Prezentor caters to sales-oriented presentations focusing on interactive storytelling and data-driven content. It offers analytics to track audience engagement and behavior during presentations, allowing you to fine-tune your approach and keep your audience hooked.

6. Opinion Stage

Opinion Stage is a visual and interactive data collection tool designed to engage and excite audiences whether sitting in a lecture hall, participating in a live Zoom, or watching an on-demand webinar. The Opinion Stage tools are simple and intuitive, making it easy to create attention-grabbing quizzes, surveys, and polls in minutes. A great way to spice up any presentation, encourage audience participation, and collect authentic feedback.

7 . Venngage

Venngage stands out as a versatile design tool that facilitates the creation of interactive infographics, data visualizations and presentations with ease. Offering various interactive elements and animations, Venngage empowers you to craft visually appealing and engaging presentations effortlessly.

With these interactive presentation software options at your disposal, you can unleash your creativity and deliver presentations that leave a lasting impact on your audience. So, go ahead and make your presentations interactive, captivating and memorable!

For more presentation software options, check out this blog on the 12 best presentation software for 2023.

Creating interactive presentations can be a game-changer for engaging your audience and enhancing your presentation skills, but steering clear of common pitfalls is essential. Here are some key mistakes to avoid when crafting your interactive presentations:

1. Overloading with interactivity

While interactivity is fantastic, bombarding your audience with too many interactive elements can backfire. Strive for a balanced approach that enhances engagement without overwhelming your listeners.

2. Ignoring audience relevance

Failing to tailor interactive elements to your audience’s interests and preferences can lead to disconnection. Make sure your interactions resonate with your specific audience for a more meaningful experience.

3. Not testing interactive elements

Skipping thorough testing of interactive features before showtime can spell disaster. Avoid technical glitches by diligently testing all interactive components in advance.

4. Poor timing and pace

Timing is everything, especially with interactive activities. Ensure seamless integration by planning your key points and the timing of your interactive elements carefully.

5. Lack of clear purpose

Every interactive element should serve a purpose and contribute to your presentation’s objectives. Don’t add interactions just for the sake of it — ensure they add value and align with your message.

6. Failing to engage beyond interactivity

While interactive elements are powerful tools, remember that content is king. Combine your interactive features with compelling storytelling and valuable insights to create an immersive and impactful presentation.

Incorporating animated slides into your interactive presentations enhances the overall appeal and interaction, turning an ordinary presentation into an engaging experience. Try it out with one of our animated presentation templates to get started. 

How do you start an interactive presentation?

Begin by grabbing the audience’s attention with an intriguing question or a surprising fact, setting the tone for a dynamic and engaging session.

Which type of presentation is the most interactive?

Workshops and seminars are often the most interactive types of presentations as they encourage active participation, discussions and hands-on activities.

How can interactive presentations enhance audience engagement?

Interactive presentations foster a two-way communication flow, involving the audience through polls, quizzes, discussions and multimedia elements, leading to increased interest, attentiveness and better retention of information.

What are some common interactive elements to include in a presentation?

Common interactive elements include clickable buttons, hyperlinked text, polls, quizzes, interactive charts, multimedia content and audience participation activities.

Can interactive presentations be used for educational purposes?

Absolutely! Interactive presentations are highly effective for educational purposes as they promote active learning, encourage critical thinking, and provide real-time feedback and knowledge exchange opportunities.

Need inspiration on how to give an engaging presentation ? Here are 120+ presentation ideas you could use. 

Venngage makes it easy for anyone to infuse interactivity into their presentations. From clickable buttons and hyperlinked text to interactive infographics and dynamic charts, Venngage offers a diverse range of interactive elements to captivate and engage the audience. Here’s how you can make your presentation more fun and interesting with Venngage:

• Sign up or log in to Venngage to access the platform.
• Choose a presentation template or start with a blank canvas to begin designing your interactive presentation.
• Add and edit slides in the Venngage editor to structure your presentation content effectively.
• Customize the design by selecting themes, fonts, colors and backgrounds to match your style and branding.
• Use interactive elements like buttons, links, pop-ups and hover effects to engage the audience during the presentation.
• Enhance engagement by incorporating interactive media such as videos and audio clips.
• Preview and test your entire presentation to ensure everything works smoothly before presenting it to your audience.
• Save your interactive presentation on Venngage and share it online or download it in various formats for presenting purposes.

Well, I hope these 15 5-minute interactive presentation examples can help unlock a new level of audience engagement for your next presentation. From fun quizzes and interactive storytelling to multimedia magic and gamified challenges, the possibilities are endless. So, don’t be afraid to experiment, tailor the ideas to suit your audience members and let your creativity shine.  

That said, remember to strike a balance and keep the interactivity purposeful and relevant. Some common mistakes to avoid when creating interactive slides include overloading the presentation with too many interactive elements and failing to align the interactive elements with the overall presentation goals and content. 

Got it? Great. Now let’s turn that boring presentation around!

Creative Presentation Ideas – Ultimate Guide for 2024 Performance

Astrid Tran • 27 Oct 2023 • 6 min read

To boost performance, what creative presentation ideas should be adopted?

Have you ever complained about a Death by PowerPoint? Failed performance might stay behind a range of fruitless presentation slides or lack of body languages. A useful idea to kill participants’ boredom while doing a public speech is to ask for help from presentation tools or implement different creative presentation ideas from experts. 

In this article, we summarize the best 12 creative presentation ideas that are recommended by many professionals and speakers around the world. Grabbing your topic and creating your desired presentations right away with these following tips.

Table of Contents

• #1. Visuals and Infographics
• #2. Lives Polls, Quizzes and Games
• #3. Tunes and Sound Effects
• #4. Video Storytelling
• #5. Funny Effects with Emojis and GIFs
• #6. Transition and Animation
• #7. Be Minimal
• #8. A Timeline
• #9. Spinner Wheel
• #10. Themed Backgrounds
• #11. Make the Presentation Sharable

The Bottom Line

Frequently asked questions, tips for better engagement.

• Different Types of Presentation
• 10 Interactive Presentation Ideas to Enliven Work and Hangout Sessions in 2023
• 120+ Examples of Interesting Topic For Speaking in 2023
• Visual Presentation Examples
• What is 7×7?

Start in seconds.

Get more presenting ideas with AhaSlides templates! Sign up for free and take what you want from the template library!

#1. Visuals and Infographics – Creative Presentation Ideas

Embellishing your creative presentations with creative elements like visuals and infographics is always the first priority. If your voice is not so attractive or you want to distract people from your boring voice, you should add some photos, images to describe your ideas more clearly. If it is an idea-making presentation, corporate presentation, a lack of infographics like charts, graphs, and smarts arts is a huge mistake as they can help explain the boring data in a more persuasive way.

In many meetings with employers or strategic partners, there is not much time left for you to beat around the bush, so using visuals and infographics in the right context can tackle time management and enhance performance to impress your boss and supercharge your business pitches.

#2. Lives Polls, Quizzes and Games – Creative Presentation Ideas

If you want to make innovative presentation ideas without PowerPoint, you can create live quizzes and polls via online presentation tools. As most e-learning training software like AhaSlides offer tons of customizable templates for you to create different subjects, quizzes and survey games to communicate with audiences better. You are flexible to blend different types of questions to make icebreakers for your speech more interesting and exciting, such as multiple-choice, Wordcloud, picture questions, Q&A, Yes/No questions and beyond.

#3. Tunes and Sound Effects – Creative Presentation Ideas

If you are a fan of Harry Potter, you might be so obsessed with its classic opening soundtracks, for decades, it is the movie signature of all time. Similarly, you also can add sound effects for your opening to catch people’s attention and be curious about your further introduction. With AhaSlides , there are catchy audios for you to set up sound effects to make your presentation incredible, especially when there are quizzes and game sections, there will be a funny sound to congratulate your correct answers or fail your answers.

#4. Video Storytelling – Creative Presentation Ideas

For an impactful presentation, it cannot miss playing a video, an ultimate way to start as a storyteller. Video is the best performing content type that can connect and fill the gap of communication and knowledge shared between speakers and listeners. It is a creative way for the audience to feel natural and authentic about your content and ideas as well as retain more information. A tip is to choose a video that has good quality so that audience won’t feel troublesome and annoyed. 

#5. Funny Effects with Emojis and GIFs – Creative Presentation Ideas

Funny ideas for a creative presentation? It is common that in the middle of the presentation, many listeners start taking their eyes off the ball. To avoid this situation happening regularly, put some GIFS and funny emojis to awaken your audience is a cool way to do the presentation. You know how to use GIFs, right? Don’t overuse GIFs and funny emojis if you don’t want your audience to find your presentation weird and disordered rather than creative. 

#6. Transition and Animation – Creative Presentation Ideas

In MS PowerPoint Thumbnail Pane, there is an obvious section for transition and animation. You can easily change transition types for different slides or apply random functions so that a presentation moves from one slide to the next in harmony. In addition, you also can leverage four types of animation effects consisting of entrance, emphasis, exit and motion paths to transit your text and images and more which may help enhance information emphasis.

#7. Be Minimal – Creative Presentation Ideas

Sometimes, minimalism is the best. A tip for creative PowerPoint presentation ideas for students is to make use of modern or minimalism-themed background design for your report. It is said that many instructors prefer a neat and elegant background with clear information and data displayed rather than a colourful one with disorganized text and images. Don’t get fancy if it is not necessary.

#8. A Timeline – Creative Presentation Ideas

Not only required for corporate level report but also other presentation events in university and class, a timeline in one slide is needed as it shows relevant goals, proposition a work plan and conveys historical information quickly. Creating a timeline can help to set clear priorities and directions so that audience feels comfortable following the progress and critical events.

#9. Spinner Wheel – Creative presentation ideas

By using spinner wheel, let’s input and choose the best creative presentation ideas for your next presentation!

#10. Themed Backgrounds – Creative Presentation Ideas

Since many websites offer free ppt templates, users can download and edit them easily. As the more options are, the more confusing it is. Depending on your topic, choosing a suitable background is more reasonable than a beauty slide with many meaningless animated figures. When it comes to art presentation ideas, if you are working on a business project related, you should find the themed background has a colour range linking to the brand with creative photo crops, or if you want to introduce about 1900s art, the template should offer portfolio slides and art-relevant patterns. 

#11. Make the Presentation Sharable – Creative Presentation Ideas

One of the important keys that many presenters seem to forget is to make keynotes sharable, which means listeners and others who are fascinated by the topic can access the content and view the material without having to track down the slides from time to time. You can use SlideShare to create a direct link for access or use presentation software online then forward the link for further reference. If possible you can upload your work in the library for someone who finds it valuable.

There are many useful tips to make your presentation more creative than just using formal PowerPoint as before. Try PowerPoint add-in with integration with other presentation software to make your presentation outstanding and intriguing. Improving assimilation by applying different presentation elements is a good idea, too.

If you also are looking for guidance to perform better your ideas with presentation or interesting topics to present and discuss, here are other handy resources for you.

Ref: marketingtech

Got a question? We've got answers.

What is creativity?

Why are creative presentation ideas important, why should presenters use interactive elements in presentation.

Astrid Tran

I've got my rhythm with words

More from AhaSlides

12 Easy Steps to Make a Presentation Creative (+ Examples)

Learn how to make a presentation creative without PowerPoint, and draw inspiration from creative presentation examples by industry and use case.

Dominika Krukowska

9 minute read

Short answer

How can I make a presentation more creative?

• Start with captivating cover videos
• Add chapters for smooth navigation
• Weave in personalization using dynamic variables
• Enhance storytelling with animations
• Highlight key points using subtle visual cues
• Engage with interactive elements
• Showcase ideas using vibrant images
• Sprinkle in video narrations
• Wrap up with a smart CTA

Boring presentations can damage your brand’s image

Boring presentations can feel like those endless meetings where one person monopolizes the conversation. You know, the ones where you’re zoning out, doodling on the side of your notes, just waiting for it to end so you could move on to something more engaging.

That's the disconnect your audience experiences when faced with a boring presentation.

What’s even worse is that when your presentation is dull, it doesn't just bore your audience—it subtly suggests that you or your brand might be, well, kind of boring too .

The good thing is that with the right tweaks and insights, every presentation holds the potential to be memorable.

In this post, we're diving deep into the heart of what makes a presentation creative. We'll explore the mistakes that lead to forgettable slides and the strategies to elevate your content.

By the end, you’ll have all it takes to transform your presentation from mundane to magnetic and have your audience engage with it from the first click to the last.

Let’s go!

What makes a presentation boring?

A boring presentation is a mix of repetitive designs and long chunks of text without a human touch. When slides come off as too generic or overly complex, or they swing between being too predictable or hard to grasp, they lose their spark.

Add in a lack of visuals, real stories, or interaction, and you've got a recipe for audience disinterest.

To truly engage, a presentation should blend interaction, emotion, and content that is relevant to the audience.

How to make a presentation creative step-by-step

Modern presentations are more than just slides—they're experiences. Gone are the days of static bullet points; today's audience craves engagement, interactivity, and a touch of the unexpected.

Let's explore how to make your presentation more creative step-by-step:

1) Add videos to break up text

Videos can set the tone, explain complex ideas, or simply entertain. By strategically placing them at key moments where you feel energy might dip, you make sure your audience remains engaged, and your message is reinforced.

Whether it's a real-life testimonial, a product demo, or a fun animation, videos can breathe life into abstract concepts, making them tangible and relatable.

And, there’s science behind it too: presentations with a video on the cover slide see 32% more engagement . But the magic of videos doesn't stop at the cover. Presentations sprinkled with videos throughout held people's attention 37% longer and even boosted the click-through rate on calls-to-action by 17%.

2) Create a non-linear flow

Who said presentations have to be a straight line? Let's mix it up! By linking slides, you're handing the remote to your audience. It's like those 'choose your own adventure' books from our childhood.

Group your slides into themes or create chapters and let them pick what they want to see next. It's a fun, interactive way to keep them on their toes and engaged.

3) Use personalization for creating tailored stories

You know those emails that greet you by name and make you feel all special? Imagine bringing that warmth to your presentations using dynamic variables.

By integrating with your CRM, you can fetch specific data about your audience and weave it into your slides. This simple trick can make your audience feel like the content was crafted specifically for them, creating a deeper connection.

If you’re making a presentation to showcase your product, you can even use dynamic variables to create a mock-up with your prospect’s name and logo on it to make your deck stand out.

4) Use narrated design

Scrollytelling is where the magic of scrolling meets the art of storytelling. It's an interactive content experience that weaves text, images, videos, and animations into a captivating narrative.

Instead of static slides, scrollytelling guides readers through a story, allowing them to control the pace. It breaks down complex content into bite-sized chunks, enhancing engagement and retention.

Our founder, Itai Amoza, wanted everyone to enjoy this dynamic content experience. So, he joined forces with visualization expert Prof. Steven Franconeri to weave scrollytelling into Storydoc.

Thanks to their partnership, we have dedicated storytelling slides in Storydoc, like the narrator slide you can see below , designed to make content both clear and captivating for all.

5) Tell stories with videos

Videos have this unique power to turn complex ideas into simple, engaging stories. A video might break down a tricky process into fun, easy-to-follow narrative, or give us a peek into real-life examples or experiences.

It's all about making your content feel alive, relatable, and super easy to understand. Because, let's face it, everyone's a sucker for a good story.

Here's a great example of a storytelling video:

6) Use roadmap and timeline slides

Ever tried reading a long-winded description of a company's journey or a product's development process? Yawn, right?

Now, imagine swapping that snooze-fest with a vibrant roadmap or timeline. Instead of slogging through paragraphs, you get a fun, visual play-by-play.

Picture a colorful line showing a startup's journey from a garage brainstorm to its first big sale.

Or a playful timeline marking the stages of turning a wild idea into a bestselling product. It's like turning a history lesson into a comic strip—way more fun and a whole lot clearer!

You can see what it looks like below:

7) Direct attention using animations

Ever been to a theater where the spotlight focuses on the main act? That's what animations do for your presentation.

Whether it's a cheeky arrow pointing out a fun fact, a grand entrance animation for a new idea, or using grayed-out content to highlight a key point, animations are your stage directors.

They ensure your audience's eyes are exactly where you want them to be, soaking in all the important bits.

Here's a great example:

8) Add interactive calculators

Who said numbers have to be boring? With interactive calculators, you're turning math into a fun game. Let your audience punch in numbers and see real-time results.

Whether they're calculating potential savings, ROI, or just playing around, it's an engaging and creative way to make your points tangible. It's like turning your presentation into a hands-on workshop.

9) Use AI-generated images

Instead of sifting through countless stock photos, thanks to the magic of AI, you can have an image that's tailor-made for your slide in seconds.

Storydoc presentation maker lets you generate any image directly in your deck - just give the AI assistant a short description and you’re good to go.

What's great is that you always get an image that matches your topic to a tee. No more "that'll do" compromises. Plus, think of all the time you save when you don't have to hunt for the right picture or take it yourself.

Here's a short video showing how it works:

10) Pop into the presentation with video bubble narration

Imagine if, during a presentation, a mini version of you could pop up, share a quick tip, or clarify a point. That's video bubble narration in a nutshell.

It's like having a friendly guide accompanying your audience, ensuring they get the most out of your content. It adds a creative personal touch, making your presentation feel like a cozy chat between friends.

11) Use before-and-after to show transformation

There's something magical about witnessing a transformation. Just think about the buzz online when someone shares a 'before and after' of a design revamp, weight loss journey, or how they helped a client grow their business.

With a before-and-after slide , you're giving your audience that 'aha!' moment. Even if you can't see their reactions in real-time, you can bet they're sliding back and forth, captivated by the change.

Whether it's showcasing a product's impact, a website redesign, or a process improvement, it's a visual treat that makes your message more powerful.

Here's an example of a before-and-after slide:

12) Close with a smart CTA

The grand finale of your presentation deserves a touch of flair. Instead of a simple 'Thank you' slide, imagine ending with an interactive live chat prompt or a calendar invite for a follow-up. It's like the encore at the end of a concert, giving your audience a chance to engage further.

These smart CTAs aren't just functional; they're creative extensions of your narrative. By integrating them, you're not just concluding your presentation; you're opening doors to new conversations and possibilities.

Here's a great example of a smart CTA:

3 presentation opening ideas

Kicking off a presentation with a bang can set the tone for everything that follows. Here are 3 captivating ways to grab your audience's attention right from the get-go:

Dive into a story: Begin with a personal anecdote or a relatable tale. It's like inviting your audience around a campfire, setting the stage for a memorable narrative.

Pose a thought-provoking question: Challenge your viewers with a question that gets their gears turning. It's an instant engagement booster, making them active participants.

Share a startling statistic: Drop a number that makes jaws drop. When you hit them with a fact that's hard to ignore, you've got their undivided attention.

Want more insights on crafting the perfect presentation opener? Check out our article on how to start a presentation people read to the end .

3 presentation closing ideas

Wrapping up a presentation is just as crucial as the opening. It's your final chance to leave a lasting impression. Here are 3 best ways to ensure your audience walks away inspired:

Circle back to the start: Revisit your opening story or statement, bringing your narrative full circle. It's a neat way to tie everything together and reinforce your key message.

End with a Call-to-Action: End with a captivating personal video message or a lively animation. It's a unique way to engage, surprise, and guide your audience on what's next.

Share an inspiring quote: Leave them with words that resonate. A powerful quote can sum up your message and linger in their minds long after.

Here's an example of a presentation with a personal video message at the end:

Hungry for more tips on crafting the perfect presentation finale? Read our blog post on how to end a presentation and get people to act .

Best tools for making creative presentations

Crafting creative presentations is an art, and like any artist, you need the right tools to bring your vision to life. Here's a curated list of platforms that are pushing the envelope in presentation design:

Storydoc : Beyond traditional slides, Storydoc offers interactive web stories. It's not just about displaying content; it's about creating experiences. With dynamic visuals and interactive elements, your audience is in for a treat.

Pitch : Collaboration is Pitch's forte. Designed for teams, it offers real-time editing, customizable templates, and a sleek interface. It's where ideas transform into visually stunning stories.

Genially : From animated presentations to responsive infographics, Genially provides tools that make your content come alive on the screen.

Beautiful.ai : Automated design assistance is its claim to fame. Feed in your content, and watch as the tool intuitively crafts slides that are both coherent and captivating.

Canva : A versatile design platform, Canva boasts a variety of templates for presentations, graphics, and more. Its drag-and-drop interface ensures even design novices feel like pros.

Visme : Tailored for visual storytelling, Visme offers a rich library of assets. Think dynamic charts, data widgets, and a suite of animations that turn your data into visual narratives.

Creative presentation templates

Ever felt the weight of the cursor blinking on an empty slide, almost taunting you to come up with something creative?

It's like being handed a stage with an eager audience, but the script is yet to be written. That initial step can be the hardest, but what if you had a little nudge in the right direction?

Creative presentation templates can help you shape your story in a way that stands out in a sea of monotony. Think of them as the paint-by-numbers kits, where the structure is set, but the colors and flair? That's all you.

Grab one and see for yourself.

Hi, I'm Dominika, Content Specialist at Storydoc. As a creative professional with experience in fashion, I'm here to show you how to amplify your brand message through the power of storytelling and eye-catching visuals.

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17 fun presentation ideas (with video!) to wow your audience

• 30 Mar 2023

So you want to be the next Steve Jobs. Or Martin Luther King. Or any other dazzling orator you look up to. But you need a little something to add to your presentation ideas – you don’t want to bore people to death with Powerpoint.

Whether you’re creating a sales presentation, an event presentation, or just showing your travel video to Uncle Ron, we’ve compiled some of the best ways to get your audience seriously hyped up about your message.

Biteable offers online video presentation software, so we know a thing or two about making engaging presentation videos. In this guide, we share some of our favorite video presentation inspiration and show you some of the different types of presentations you might consider.

When you’re ready to make your own video presentation, head over to  Biteable  for hundreds of brandable templates, video scenes, and workplace-ready animations. With Biteable, making a video presentation is as easy as making a PowerPoint – only a whole lot more fun.

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Types of video presentations

If you’re looking to win over your audience with a presentation, videos are the best way to do it. According to Insivia, viewers retain  95% of a message  when they see it in a video, but only 10% if they have to read on-screen text.

When you’re making your presentation, you could either make your video the whole presentation, or just a part of the whole. Did you know, for example, that you can  embed a video in a Powerpoint document?  Either is possible with our video templates and it can be interesting to mix things up once in a while.

There are four main types of presentations:

• Informative
• Demonstrative
• Inspirational

Picking the right one will ensure you’re onto a winner with your video presentation. For example, if you’re onboarding some new employees, you might choose a video template that’s an informative presentation like this one:

Or, if you want to show off how something works, a demonstration presentation might be what you want to create:

A persuasive presentation would involve creating a video more like this charity infographic example:

And if you want something a little more inspirational, try something like this positive quote video template.

But that’s not all, folks! If you’d like to check out more awesome Biteable video templates, visit our  templates page here .

Creative (and fun!) video presentation ideas

You’ve now picked the type of presentation you need. But how do you get creative with your video?

First of all, it’s important your video is top-notch. Without high-quality graphics and production value, your message may fall by the wayside. Choose online  video presentation software  that’s easy to use and makes great-looking videos. That’s where Biteable comes in.

Whatever the topic of your presentation, your video format and design need to match the overall tone and message.

Delivering a corporate presentation on climate change? A fast-paced, wildly colorful template with upbeat music is going to feel a little off-message.

To identify how to design your presentation, think about the feelings you want to evoke in your audience. Want them to be crying with laughter? Moved to tears? Motivated into taking action? Pinpointing the emotions behind your presentation will help you choose the right template and make the best video possible.

17 great video presentation ideas

Now you’ve nailed down the type of video presentation you want to make, it’s time to master the finer details. Here’s just some of the ways you can make your message sing.

1. Start with a bold statement

A bold statement can capture your audience’s attention right from the get-go. Your statement should offer something slightly unusual and maybe even a little controversial. Something to make people sit up and take notice.

2. Tell a story

One of the best ways to get your audience’s attention is to tell a story – it’ll hit them right in the feels.

A personal, human story works because it the audience can relate to it on a personal level. Think about some stand-out examples of human stories that relate to your business or idea, and tell that story so people will connect with the central character. The bigger the emotion the better: love, longing, overcoming obstacles, things we’ve all had to deal with at some point in our lives.

Think about the  ‘story arc’  – how will you frame your message so the audience immediately empathizes?

If you’re selling trainers, perhaps you’ll talk about someone who’s training for a marathon. If you’re lobbying for women’s rights, perhaps you’ll tell a story of when a passing comment affected you deeply. Maybe you should think back to the decision that started your business, and start your presentation with that.

Here’s a great example of storytelling from one of the world’s top brands:

3. Use music

Music has great power to support and enhance the emotion in a video presentation, and has been proven to sustain an audience’s attention and aid in information retention. Music is used in movies to suggest an emotional state to the viewer, so why not in a video presentation?

Modern, up-tempo music will snap people to attention at the right moment, while slow, minor-key sounds relax the brain, which is useful for reviewing content so it can slip more easily into long-term memory.

It can be a struggle to find good quality  royalty free music , but here at Biteable we have a selection of great royalty free tracks (or you can upload your own if you’re that way inclined).

Music is one of the most critical (and often overlooked) aspects of any presentation. Here’s a good example of a Biteable template where the music does a great job of supporting the message.

4. Visual metaphor

Research has shown that combining pictures and text is one of the best ways to help people engage with and retain information. There’s something about how our brain works that makes text by itself far less memorable, so if you can combine something visual with your message, you’ll keep people’s attention longer and they’ll remember more of your presentation.

Talking to a group of people about taking action on something that scares them? A picture of someone diving or bungee jumping could work. Telling your boss how important that company retreat is next year? Show them an image of happy, relaxed people with their toes in the sand.

It doesn’t have to be obvious and clichéd, either. Closed doors, wide open roads, and lighting a candle all have subconscious messages that you don’t really need to explain. (Whatever you do, just don’t use the ultimate cliche: the overused  ‘water ripple’ .)

5. Use questions

Questions can be a great way to open a presentation, because they encourage the audience to think for themselves. It opens them up to a realm of critical thinking, which is perfect when you’re gonna sock it to them with your impactful message.

‘Did you know 15 billion trees are cut down each year?’

‘Have you ever considered what life would be like if you didn’t have to save money?’

The art of asking questions in a presentation means you can incorporate them into your video as a great lead-in. Combined with some appropriate music, it can really get your audience thinking about the issue, and then you’ll go on to explain exactly what your solution is.

Having a laugh can really do a lot to win over an audience. There’s no need to be too serious, and even if you’re dealing with a heavy topic, lightening the mood can work wonders.

Whether you’re looking to create a funny sales video, an event presentation, or a presentation for an interview — one thing’s for sure, you can’t go wrong by including humor.

7. Repetition

Simple. Effective. Powerful.

Repetition can be used in several ways: by offering several one-word sentences in a row (the repetition is in the rhythm), or by repeating a word or a key phrase several time throughout your presentation.

In his famous Stanford speech in 2005, for example, Steve Jobs concluded by saying  “Stay hungry. Stay foolish.”

Repetition is powerful. It drives home your key message and strengthens your position.

8. Motion Graphics

Motion graphics  are basically animation with text as a major component, and is a staple of what we do at Biteable.

When you use moving graphics in a presentation, it instantly captures attention. If your audience is just taking their seats, or are halfway through hearing your story, there’s no doubt they’ll sit up and take notice if you introduce some cool motion graphics, like this Meeting Tips example.

Although they can sometimes feel clichéd, quotes are a great way to impart a message in a presentation. Want your audience to understand something complex? A quote from Einstein should do it. Or would you like to say something meaningful and poetic? A couple of lines of Shakespeare should convey some wisdom.

10. Audio narration

Narration can give a different mood to your presentation, especially if the voice is powerful and the words are heartfelt. Use it to change the tone or pace of your presentation and it will certainly keep your audience hooked if there’s a danger of them losing interest.

11. Go bright with color

Color can have a huge effect on how your video comes across. Don’t be afraid to experiment. The contrasts of black and white can be extremely effective, but you can also grab people’s attention with some carefully-chosen primary and secondary colors, like in our Motion Graphics template.

12. Use illustrations

Illustrations are a great way to communicate information, especially if you’ve got lots to say. Whether you want to create a crowd of people or a cool depiction of some new fancy gadget, illustrations can draw the eye and make your presentation more interesting.

13. Infographics

When you utilize infographics, you can pack in a huge amount of data and information without confusing your audience. Think pie charts, digital numbers, and ascending animated graphs. These can show your audience boring data in an exciting way.

14. Create interesting transitions

The one advantage of video over a standard presentation is that you can do all types of funky things with transitions, like a whip pan transition, when the camera quickly pans between scenes. It’s a bit like a wipe, but much faster. Check out our full article on transitions  here .

15. Make it look cinematic

Adding a cinematic touch can help your audience feel receptive to your message because subconsciously, they will associate these elements with being at the cinema, eating popcorn, and generally having a good time.

16. Go retro

A cool, retro look for your presentation will make it hard to ignore. By going retro, you add a little bit of cheeky style to your message. You don’t need to go  quite as retro as the template below, but taking a step back in time is a sure way to add a little bit of zing to things.

17. End on a meaningful note

Your presentation will only give your audience a lasting impression if you end it right.

It’s important to let the audience know what you want them to do next: to visit a website for more information, to ponder an idea or new direction, or to take action toward a particular goal.

An attention-grabbing visual will work really well here, along with a meaningful end to the music – a change of pace, volume, or pitch.

What’s the takeaway message? A strong CTA (call to action) will ensure your presentation is memorable and much more likely to be talked about.

Video brings your presentation alive

Of course, we’re a little biased here at Biteable, but we’ve also sat through enough mind-numbingly dull presentations to know that video offers a delightful treat for your audience. It brings your message to life in a way no other medium can.

Ready to start crafting your presentation? Check out our range of templates  here .

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Creative Presentation Ideas to Impress Your Audience

Keeping an audience captivated during a presentation. It’s a task many find daunting. Whether you’re delivering a basic PowerPoint to your fellow students in a classroom or sharing a  pitch deck with potential investors , you may wonder how you can ensure your presentation will be memorable and exciting.

Keep reading if so. While your main goal should be to deliver a presentation that thoroughly covers your chosen topic, experimenting with different creative presentation ideas can also help you ensure your speech captures an audience’s attention in the first place. 

The following are just a few ideas worth considering. They’ll transform a bland speech into one that truly resonates.

Creative Presentation Ideas: How to Make the Right Impression

Tell a story.

Incorporating storytelling into a presentation is often an effective way to engage an audience. Instead of relying solely on dry facts, you can convey your idea through:

• Case studies
• Testimonials

Also, consider how different types of visual content might help you tell a story and forge an emotional connection with audience members. For example, a graph or chart may be ideal for a slide whose purpose is to share objective facts and data. On the other hand, if your goal is to tell a story, you might incorporate video.

Keep this in mind when choosing a presentation maker. The tool you work with should allow you to include all types of content that might enhance your speech.

Be aware, research indicates video content is  more engaging  than other forms of online content. It’s therefore safe to assume that such content would also drive engagement in the context of a presentation.

( Tip:  A video presentation doesn’t merely need to consist of live-action footage. You can also include animation to illustrate a unique idea or topic.)

Make it Interactive

One of the key reasons many dread giving presentations is simple: fear of public speaking is  among the most common anxieties  many people share.

Luckily, when presenting to an audience, you don’t technically need to be the only one doing the talking. You can give yourself breaks by designing and delivering an interactive presentation.

Ways to do so include:

Again, when coming up with creative presentation ideas, your main goal may be to ensure your audience members don’t lose interest in your speech. One simple way to achieve this goal is to provide those audience members with frequent opportunities to participate directly.

Be Dramatic

No, not in the way you may be thinking! We’re not recommending you get up in front of a group and start crying to get their attention.

(Although, to be fair, that could work.)

Not everyone feels comfortable exercising their acting and improv chops during a presentation. Additionally, not every presentation idea lends itself to this type of creativity.

However, if you believe your audience would be receptive to this approach, and you’re not afraid to get into character, adding an element of drama or role-playing to your presentation can help clarify complex concepts and make your message more engaging. 

This is another way in which you might make a presentation more interactive. While you don’t want to make anyone uncomfortable, depending on the circumstances, you could ask for volunteers to join you in acting out certain scenarios. This can lighten the mood and keep everyone engaged.

Use Visual Aids

You likely already appreciate how certain types of visual aids can boost the effectiveness of a presentation. For example, if you’re sharing data, you can help viewers digest it with an infographic.

However, it’s worth considering how less traditional visual aids could also prove useful. Examples to consider include:

• Hand-drawn illustrations

On a related topic, it’s also important to customize your presentation’s visuals so they represent your brand. This may involve:

• Using a branded color scheme
• Choosing the right font for text sections of slides
• Working with a template that allows you to modify all major visual elements

That said, the visual elements of a presentation may not be the only aspects that reflect your brand. Remember, you can include video, which means you can also include audio. Consider how such elements as the right music can potentially strengthen the link between your brand and your presentation.

Make a Mobile-Friendly Version

The day of your presentation doesn’t need to be your one shot to impress your audience! Sometimes, it might be wise to also create a separate mobile-friendly version of a presentation that audience members can view later on their phones and tablets. In some instances, audiences might appreciate the option to see a slide again, watch a video a second time, etc.

Bonus Hint: Use a Template

This may seem counterintuitive. If your goal is to flex your creative muscles, using presentation templates might seem to limit your ability to create something fresh and exciting.

This is a fair assumption to make. However, it’s worth noting that starting with presentation templates can help you save time in the process of designing slides and developing a natural flow for your work. This, in turn, will give you more time and energy to devote to coming up with creative ideas.

Extra Bonus Hint! Stick to Best Practices

Yes, leveraging creative presentation ideas to grab someone’s attention is smart! Just make sure you’re not getting so creative that you end up delivering a presentation that overwhelms your audience or fails to get your message across.

Always keep the basics in mind to ensure your work is organized and clear. For example, you should:

• Use bullet points, headers, and other formatting elements to ensure text sections are clear
• Restate important points
• Stick to a coherent color scheme
• Focus on one idea per slide
• Summarize your topic at the end
• Speak clearly

Powtoon’s Video Presentation Maker Helps You Unleash Your Creativity

Just as using the right template can help you create a presentation more efficiently than you otherwise might, using the right tool can allow you to incorporate creative presentation ideas effectively.

That’s exactly the type of tool you’ll find with Powtoon’s  presentation maker . We also offer video-making tools and resources, helping you generate impressive content on a budget.  Sign up today to learn more!

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20 incredible presentation ideas to wow your audience.

Every presenter knows the pulse-racing thrill of a captive audience; it’s the oxygen for our ideas and the electricity in our words. But the art of electrifying an audience isn’t simply about unleashing a tornado of information or leaning on stock presentation templates mixed with an elevator pitch . It’s about crafting a narrative that captivates, illuminates, and motivates. This article explores 20 presentation ideas and successful presentation tips that aim to wow your audience and turn them into active participants in your narrative journey.

Table of Contents

20 of The Best Presentation Ideas for Engaging Your Audience

Below we explore 20 of the best creative presentation ideas. We examine personal touches, humor, simplicity, breaks, and group activities. We’ll also tap into the power of demonstrations, metaphors, pace variation, and lasting takeaways. Here we go!

Storytelling Techniques

Storytelling paints pictures with words, weaving a narrative that resonates emotionally. It is also about transforming data or marketing materials into vivid narratives. For example, illustrate a sales growth report through the journey of a single customer, or explain company history by telling the founder’s story. These techniques humanize information, making your presentation more engaging and relatable.

Interactive Elements

Interactive elements are the spark plugs of your presentation engine. Deploy live polls to gauge audience sentiment, quizzes to reinforce key points, or hold spontaneous Q&A sessions. For instance, quiz the audience after explaining a complex concept to ensure understanding and retention. Interactivity keeps the audience invested and alert.

Visual Aids

Visual aids are your presentation’s secret sauce. They transform complex visual elements into digestible formats. Incorporate infographics to break down data, use compelling images to evoke emotions, or play short videos for a dramatic effect. For example, replace a bulleted list of product features with a stunning infographic. Visuals add vibrancy and captivate attention.

Audience-Driven Content

Audience-driven content is the bridge between the presenter and the listener. Understand your audience’s interests, problems, and preferences to achieve this. For instance, if you’re presenting to a tech-savvy crowd, incorporate the latest industry trends and technologies into your narrative. Tailored content resonates, engages, and holds relevance.

Creative Presentation Formats

Traditional formats often cage the potential of a business presentation. Experiment with formats like PechaKucha ( 20 slides or images that are displayed for 20 seconds each) , Ignite ( 5 minute long presentation with 20 slides ), or TED-style talks (18-minute insights). For instance, PechaKucha can be perfect for a product launch, keeping the narrative concise and impactful. You can even make a PowerPoint into a video , or experiment with other features. For example, you could create a roadmap in Powerpoint or create a poster in Powerpoint or other tools. These formats bring novelty, maintain interest, and enhance information delivery.

Personal Anecdotes

Personal anecdotes inject authenticity into your presentation. They humanize you, making the audience relate to your journey. For instance, share your first-hand experiences of overcoming challenges if you’re discussing entrepreneurship. This creates an emotional connection, making your presentation both relatable and memorable.

Thought-Provoking Questions

Thought-provoking questions are the catalysts for audience reflection and engagement. They inspire critical thinking, stimulate discussion, and create a dialogue. For example, if presenting on climate change, ask, “How can your individual actions contribute to a sustainable future?” Or in a marketing strategy talk, pose, “How would you differentiate this product in a saturated market?” Let the power of curiosity drive your presentation.

Incorporating Humor into Creative Presentations

Humor is the magic wand that can transform the atmosphere of your presentation. It breaks the ice, lifts spirits, and boosts engagement. A well-placed joke can lighten complex subjects. For instance, if you’re discussing a tough financial quarter, you might say, “We’re in the red, but at least it’s our company color.” Remember, a laughing audience is an engaged audience. You may even get creative with business cartoons or animated videos for business .

Use of Technology and Multimedia

Incorporate modern technology and multimedia elements like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), or interactive digital content. This not only modernizes your presentation but also creates an immersive experience for the audience.

Incorporate Case Studies and Real-World Examples

Utilize case studies or real-world examples relevant to your topic. This approach helps in illustrating points more concretely and makes your presentation more relatable and practical for the audience.

Expert Guest Speakers or Interviews

Inviting guest speakers or showing interviews with experts can add credibility and variety to your presentation. This can be particularly effective for topics requiring specialized knowledge.

Use of Infographics and Data Visualization

Complex data can be made more accessible and engaging through well-designed infographics and data visualization tools. These help in breaking down information into more digestible pieces.

Interactive Workshops or Hands-On Demonstrations

Turn part of your presentation into an interactive workshop or include hands-on demonstrations. This approach is especially effective for educational and instructional content, as it allows the audience to apply what they learn in real-time.

Minimalist Presentation Slides

Minimalist slide design directs the spotlight where it belongs: on the speaker and the message. Clean, uncluttered slides avoid overwhelming the audience and allow them to focus on your words. For a PowerPoint presentation, use simple visuals and limited text. In a video presentation, consider a minimalist backdrop with minimal on-screen elements. By embracing simplicity, you amplify the impact of your message.

Utilizing Breaks and Intermissions to Keep the Audience’s Attention

Long presentations can be mentally draining for both the presenter and the audience. Incorporating well-timed breaks or intermissions becomes vital to maintain audience focus and energy. These pauses allow participants to recharge and process information. By providing intentional breaks, you promote audience engagement, ensuring they remain attentive throughout the presentation.

Collaborative Activities

Group activities and collaborative exercises are potent tools for audience interaction and learning. Incorporate brainstorming sessions, group discussions, or small team activities to foster engagement.

Demonstrations

Live demonstrations and examples breathe life into your presentation. They provide tangible evidence and make concepts more relatable. By showcasing a product in action or illustrating a process firsthand, you capture the audience’s attention and maintain interest. Demonstrations engage multiple senses, leaving a lasting impression and enhancing the overall impact of your presentation design.

Analogies and Metaphors

Analogies and metaphors are the translator’s toolkit for simplifying complex concepts. By comparing abstract ideas to relatable experiences, you make them more accessible and memorable. For instance, describing a computer virus as a “digital flu” helps the audience grasp the concept of its spread and impact. Analogies and metaphors create vivid mental images that enhance audience understanding and retention.

Varied Presentation Pace

Varying the pace of your presentation is key to keeping the audience engaged and avoiding monotony—shift between slower and faster segments to maintain attention and create dynamic momentum. For example, during a data-heavy section, slow down to emphasize crucial points and then pick up the pace during a story or interactive activity to infuse energy. By modulating the tempo, you keep your audience on their toes and enhance the overall presentation impact.

Memorable Takeaways

Memorable takeaways are the lasting gems that linger in your audience’s minds. Provide actionable insights, key messages, or practical tips that they can apply after the presentation. For example, in a leadership talk, offer a “5-step framework for effective decision-making” or share a memorable quote that encapsulates your main message. These takeaways empower the audience to take action and ensure that your presentation has a lasting impact beyond the event itself.

The Power of Storytelling in Presentations

Storytelling has been an integral part of human communication since ancient times. It’s a powerful tool that captivates and engages audiences, making it a crucial element in modern presentations. Here’s why storytelling is essential and how to harness its potential:

• Emotional Connection: Stories evoke emotions and create a sense of empathy, allowing the audience to connect with the message on a deeper level.
• Memorable Impact: People remember stories far better than dry facts and figures. A well-told story leaves a lasting impression.
• Relatability: Stories humanize information, making complex concepts relatable and understandable for the audience.
• Engaging Narrative: A well-crafted story keeps the audience hooked, driving them to actively participate in the presentation.
• Illustrating Concepts: Use storytelling to illustrate abstract ideas, turning them into vivid mental images that stick with the audience.
• Overcoming Objections: Address objections or concerns through storytelling, showcasing how others have overcome similar challenges successfully.
• Persuasive Communication: A story with a clear message is persuasive, motivating the audience to take action.
• Fostering Empowerment: Stories that highlight real-life achievements empower the audience to believe in their potential.
• Building Trust: Sharing personal experiences builds trust and credibility with the audience.
• Enduring Legacy: Well-crafted stories are often retold, spreading your message beyond the immediate audience.

Incorporate storytelling into your presentations to elevate them from mere information-sharing sessions to captivating and unforgettable experiences.

Recap: Essential Tips for a Successful and Engaging Presentation

To create a presentation that lingers in minds and sparks a fire of engagement, embrace the magic of storytelling, interactive zest, captivating visuals, and audience-centric content. Pepper it with personal tales, mind-bending queries, and well-placed humor. Keep it sleek with minimalist slides, revitalize it with timely breaks, and foster collaboration. Add flair with demos, analogies, and metaphors. Vary the tempo, leaving the crowd craving more. And don’t forget those unforgettable takeaways that ignite action.

Why Presentation Ideas Matter

Business presentations, when armed with creative presentation ideas, become dynamic tools. They capture the audience’s attention, amplifying the impact of your message. Creativity isn’t mere decoration; it’s the engine of engagement, turning listeners into active participants in your business narrative.

The Power of Creative Presentation Ideas

Creative presentation ideas are more than a splash of brilliance; they are the lighthouse that guides your audience through your narrative. These ideas imbue an experience, a human element that resonates beyond mere data. They invite your audience on a journey, making them co-authors rather than mere spectators of your story. This inclusion boosts retention, as information becomes not just absorbed but lived. And when an audience is engaged, participation is no longer a chore, but a natural response, a dialogue that enriches both speaker and listener. Remember, a presentation is an exchange of ideas, and creative ideas make this exchange a memorable event.

FAQs: Presentation Ideas

Looking for more guidance on presentation ideas? We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to address common concerns and provide presentation tips on crafting remarkable presentations.

How Do I Choose the Right Creative Presentation Idea for My Topic?

Choosing the right presentation idea starts with understanding your presentation topic and audience. Consider the nature of your content and the desired impact. For a data-driven presentation, infographics or visualizations may be effective. For a storytelling approach, personal anecdotes can engage the audience. Tailor your choice to align with your message, goals, and the preferences of your audience. Experiment, adapt, and find the idea that best resonates with your topic.

How Can I Ensure My Entire Presentation Stays Engaging Throughout?

To maintain engagement throughout your presentation, utilize a variety of techniques. Start strong with a captivating opening to hook your audience. Incorporate interactive elements like polls, quizzes, or short activities to keep them involved. Vary your delivery style, pacing, and tone to maintain interest. Use visuals, storytelling, and relevant examples to illustrate your points. Keep the content concise and focused, avoiding information overload. Lastly, conclude with a powerful ending that leaves a lasting impression.

What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Creating a Creative Presentation?

Some key mistakes to avoid include overwhelming slides with excessive text or complex visuals. Steer clear of relying solely on monotonous delivery without engaging the audience. Avoid cramming too much information into a single presentation and neglecting to practice and rehearse. And find the right presentation tools for sales marketing to compliment your content. For example, PowerPoint is often best for standard content, while a Canva presentation may be ideal for those with lots of unique visuals. Lastly, don’t forget to tailor the content to your specific audience and their interests

How Can I Improve My Presentation Skills to Deliver a More Engaging Presentation?

Improving your presentation skills takes practice and intentional effort. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to identify areas for improvement. Practice your delivery, focusing on clarity, body language, and vocal variation. Utilize visual aids strategically to enhance your message. Engage in public speaking opportunities to gain confidence.

How Can I Adapt My Presentation to Suit Different Audience Types?

Adapting your presentation to different audience types requires understanding their needs and preferences. Research your audience beforehand to gather insights. Tailor your language and examples to resonate with their industry or background. Adjust the level of technicality or complexity based on their knowledge. Incorporate relevant anecdotes or case studies that relate to their interests. By adapting your presentation to suit different audience types, you demonstrate attentiveness and increase the chances of engaging and connecting with them effectively.

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10 creative presentation ideas to boost your next talk.

Written by Eugene Cheng

Presentations are not easy to do, we get that. They’re time-consuming, stressful, and more often than not, boring. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With the help of the right tools and tricks, you can create an interesting speech in a short period of time without much effort.

Here are 10 creative presentation ideas that you can incorporate into your next talk to give it that extra punch.

Presentation Idea #1.Share a Story – Make it Personal

In general, we recall life’s experiences through moments, not days. Similarly, it is human nature to remember intricate stories, not facts.

In a study conducted by two Stanford professors , they found that the students tested were able to recall words that played a part in constructed stories about six to seven times better than a random set of unrelated words. This is why presentation storytelling and using narratives is so powerful – it drives that important message home, and inspires action from your key stakeholders or audience.

To make a statement, and leave an impactful message in the minds of your audience, weave a story of a personal situation into your presentation. Share an anecdote, a short story, or a memorable incident related to your talk.

One good example to learn from would be fellow Singaporean Darren Tay’s speech during the World Championship of Public Speaking.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6H5vY7ujl4

In his speech, Darren narrates an intriguing story of a school bully, and linked it to his message of getting the audience to face their own inner bully, acknowledging its presence, and overcoming it. If he had simply made a point, it would have been forgotten in minutes. However, Darren’s personal story made the audience empathise, driving the key message deeper into their minds.

Presentation Idea #2.Use the Hero’s Journey to Create Your Narrative

We’ve all heard of Star Wars, it’s one of the most successful movie franchises around. But how did it retain an enthusiastic cult even 40 years after its debut?

Well, fans have the monomyth (also known as the hero’s journey) to thank, as the application of this evergreen narrative pattern has allowed us to experience an individual’s journey from start to end. With a strategic sequence of actions, we witnessed a beloved character (Luke Skywalker) leave his world of comfort to face an awakening (The Sith), before returning stronger to conquer the ordeal at hand (as a Jedi Master).

In the original monomyth popularized by Joseph Campbell, there are quite a few steps which may not always be obvious in a hero’s journey . Justin Roiland – the creator of the well-known series ‘Rick & Morty’ uses Dan Harmon’s simplified edition of the monomyth also called the ‘story circle’.

Justin has credited this deceptively simple circle for the riveting yet seemingly nonsensical plot of the series’ episodes that has drawn a cult following of millions of fans worldwide.

This can be applied to your presentations as well. When you bring the audience on a journey, placing them in the shoes of the hero, you can influence them to see the outcome you’re seeking, and the steps needed to get there. Think of your slide narrative as a story, where you show them the beginning (the problem they face), the middle (the actions they need to take) and the end (the ultimate goal of your speech).

We sometimes also see occurences of this in investor pitch decks .

Presentation Idea #3.Break Your Presentation into 3 Big ‘Acts’

From literary classics like Three Little Pigs and A Christmas Carol , to slogans like the Olympics’ Citius, Altius, Fortius , it has been proven that characters or events grow on us when they are grouped in threes to emphasize an idea.

In the presentation sphere, this writing principle – the rule of three as we call it – has allowed contemporary speakers like Steve Jobs and Barack Obama to convey high-level information in a simple and catchy manner.

For example, when he shared with the world a decade ago that Apple would launch the revolutionary iPhone, Steve Jobs said:

“Today, we’re introducing three revolutionary products of this class. The first one: is a widescreen iPod with touch controls. The second : is a revolutionary mobile phone. And the third is a breakthrough Internet communications device. … These are not three separate devices, this is one device, and we are calling it iPhone. Today, Apple is going to reinvent the phone, and here it is.”

Similarly, Obama struck a chord with the American people during his first inaugural speech with his frank 3-part statement:

“Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered.”

The rule of three helps to keep your content simple, yet memorable enough to help your audience remember the key messages you’re bringing across.

Presentation Idea #4.Ask Provocative Questions

It takes zero effort to ask easy questions. But what happens if we ask mediocre questions? The listener grows bored and begins to tune out from the conversation.

Posing provocative questions gives your presentation an edge over others, and allows them to think about your speech from a different perspective. Take Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech for example. He boldly addressed the marginalized Negro population, asking them, “When will you be satisfied?” Imagine the reaction that followed, and the rest, as we say, is history.

It seems challenging, but a question of such nature should not be underestimated as it can serve as a springboard for your audience to crystalize the problem which they have been facing.

Once you’ve asked the question during your presentation, seize the moment! Paint the less-than-ideal scenario that your audience faces, before steering them towards the aspired narrative that you can promise as a solutions provider. Don’t worry about the dozens of other questions they may have – leave them to the Q&A.

Presentation Idea #5.Use Evocative Imagery in Your Presentation

Did you know? Research has shown that our brains process images 60,000 times faster than text. That’s like information transfer on steroids!

Not only are images processed more efficiently, but they also increase our recall of the information as well. For example, one of the proven ways to ensure that learners store memories for the long-term is by pairing ideological concepts with meaningful imagery. A study found that this effect increases over time, and users recalled three times more visual information than textual ones.

In another study from the 1970s, a Canadian psychologist, Lionel Standing, conducted an experiment where subjects were shown 10,000 general, boring images over a few days and tested on their recall after two days. The result was a 66% recall rate. A smaller set of 1,000 more vivid images were tested as well and the result was an astounding 88% recall rate for pictures such as a dog with a pipe in its mouth. Takeaway: We tend to remember things that are easy for us to visualize.

Other studies have also found that some visuals can cause an emotional, almost visceral reaction. Images can influence us to take action or become more cautious, take a liking to something or shy away from it. That is why some of the best ads of our time have used impactful images. In fact, presentation slides are not that different from a great ad. Both need to be brief, attention-grabbing, and influence audiences to perform an action.

A recent presentation that has used large, full-bleed images to great effect is Elon Musk’s PowerWall showcase. During his talk, he used a variety of different images to depict the scale of pollution and the potential of Tesla’s products.

Imagine if Elon had merely used text to communicate those grandiose ideas, the presentation would have inevitably tanked quickly (think something reminiscent of an early Bill Gates presentation).

When you’re designing your next slide deck , try to incorporate a couple of evocative images for a more memorable, persuasive and captivating presentation.

Presentation Idea #6.Use Visual Metaphors

Many of us retain information well through visuals, and sometimes, it is the best way to bring a concept or message across, ensuring that it stays in the audience’s mind.

Take this image for example, which has been used frequently in dozens of presentations, and which you’d have most likely come across at least once. The hidden iceberg beneath shows a depth that’s not seen by people, and is commonly used by speakers to demonstrate or relate to something unseen, or an underlying issue.  

When you’re choosing an image, a video, or any other visual, make sure that the link to your message is clear enough for the audience to see the relation, while still remaining a little mysterious for them to figure it out themselves.

Presentation Idea #7.Use Live, Physical Props

There are times where you wish to explain or emphasize a concept or an idea. Unfortunately, not everyone can visualize the same way you do, or know exactly what you’re thinking. In these cases where you’re sharing something abstract, physical props can make a huge difference in supporting your talk, and even add a level of novelty and intimacy when used appropriately.

One good example you can learn from would be Bill Gates’ TED talk. In his speech, he discussed about the issue of malaria, while releasing a jar of live mosquitoes into the audience to highlight or ‘shock’ the audience into realizing the importance of malaria prevention.

The move was dramatic and definitely impactful, but most importantly, it pushed the listeners to think from a different perspective.

When you choose your props, think of the main message you’re trying to bring across. Using too many can backfire and bore your audience, so use this technique sparingly.

Presentation Idea #8. Have Obvious Presentation Transitions

How many times have you delivered a presentation halfway, only to notice your audience members looking incredibly lost?

If you lack the time to work on your narrative, try to include transitions, which act as ‘visual signposts’ that guide your audience and you through the presentation.

These do not need to be complex; in fact, it can be extremely simple. In your presentation deck, instead of using the same background throughout, decide on an alternative color or style to differentiate your transition slides from every other slide. These will act as your ‘markers’ to visually indicate to your audience that you’re moving on to your next point. If they got lost anywhere during your presentation, you’ll be able to jolt them back on track.

Once you’ve decided on what these would look like, insert these at specific junctures of your presentation such that they stands out clearly from the rest of the slides.

Presentation Idea #9. Use Quotes to Make Your Point

As you’re about to conclude your presentation, you’ll probably see heads twitching, bodies fidgeting, and cellphones appearing. It’s not an uncommon sight – We generally have short attention spans, and knowing that a presentation is about to end tempts us to begin checking our phones and getting ready to leave.

In fact, it’s a well known fact that humans have a shorter attention span than a goldfish , thanks to smartphones.

To maximize your audience’s remaining attention, a good way to sum up your points and leave an impression would be through a quote.

You may wonder, “If I’m just going to echo what others have said, won’t that reduce my credibility as a speaker?”

Absolutely not! As long as you reference a line that is brief and contextualized to your speech, your chosen quote could serve as a springboard to bring your audience back to the ‘big picture’.

For example, the 2003 World Champion of Public Speaking, Jim Key, quoted Martin Luther King, saying, “Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., one of the greatest dreamers of our age, said, “The time is always right to do what is right”.”

He then followed it up with his own interpretation: “That means if it’s right for us to dream as children, then it’s just as right for us to dream as adults.”, before highlighting his message – “The question is: do we have the courage to dream?”

Sharing a quote can also highlight your domain knowledge and preparation, especially if you are, or would like to gain stead as a market leader. You can craft a quote based on your own words, or modify a popular one to match your situation.

The power of quotes and their ability to add credibility to a story should not be underestimated. They can also serve as guides or ‘reminders’ to keep the audience and the story on track. With a simple quote, you now have a good springboard to launch your next talking point. Of course, do remember that you will need practice to pull it off smoothly!

Presentation Idea #10. Try Having One Headline Per Slide

Many people have frequently debated on the ‘right amount’ of words each slide should contain. If you’re daring, here’s a radical idea which you can try – having only one word or headline per slide. There have been two popular proponents of this method, Masayoshi Takahashi and Lawrence Lessig.

Masayoshi Takashi is a programmer who gained notoriety through his unusual presentation style at RubyConf. When he dabbled in PowerPoint for the first time, he found that having one word or phrase per slide worked well for Japanese text, and brought his audiences through the presentation effectively.

The second popular originator of a similar method is Lawrence Lessig, a professor at Harvard who began presenting in an unusual way: Having only one word, phrase and/or image in each slide moving in rapid succession as he spoke. His presentation decks usually contain hundreds of slides, which goes to show that your presentation should not be limited by a number of slides. Interestingly enough, the method was proven to be pretty effective in his lectures and he soon had a chance to show it off on the TED stage:

The Takashi method and Lessig method forces your audience to listen to you in order to understand the presentation, ensuring that you have their full attention. However, do be cautious as this should not be applied in every situation. If used in a more serious setting, it may backfire as it can be jarring.

If you’re unsure whether you will be able to pull this off, try to start off by incorporating this method in a couple of slides. The variety and change of pace can prove to be a refreshing one for your audience, keeping them engaged in your presentation.

So the next time you’re doing a talk, keep in mind these 10 creative presentation ideas:

• Share a personal story during your presentation to get your message across effectively
• Bring your audiences on a ‘Hero’s Journey’ using a monomythic narrative
• Break your presentation down into three parts to keep your content memorable and bite-sized
• Ask provocative questions to help your audience view things from a different perspective
• Add meaningful images to create an impact and increase recall
• Use visual metaphors to explain a complex concept or message so that it sticks
• Support your presentation with live and physical props to stimulate the senses
• Insert transitions to guide your audience through a lengthy presentation
• Reference quotes to add credibility to your assertions
• Experiment with using one headline per slide to keep things fresh and punchy

Phew! We’ve finally reached the end of this behemoth of a post. These should give you enough fodder to spice up your next presentation. If you think we’ve missed anything, leave us a comment below!

Article Written By: Eugene Cheng

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7 Ways to Inspire Creativity in the Workplace and Why it’s Important

Whether it’s creative problem-solving or the flexibility to decide how work gets done, creativity in the workplace is integral to growth, innovation, and the overall employee experience..

In today's rapidly evolving workplace landscape, the significance of creativity cannot be overstated. From fostering innovation to seizing new opportunities, a creative mindset is the cornerstone of success. A creative person, equipped with fresh perspectives and inventive ideas, can transform concepts into reality.

A commitment to cultivating a creative environment empowers teams to brainstorm smart solutions and adapt to challenges seamlessly. Below, we have collated some innovative solutions to make embracing creativity easier than ever, whilst also highlighting why entrepreneurs should prioritize creative thinkers and creative activities within their corporate culture to drive success.

Why is Creativity Important in the Workplace?

The benefits of creativity in the workplace are impressive and far-reaching. Beyond promoting fresh thinking, opening up a space for creativity at work creates a positive company culture in which team bonding is encouraged, employee productivity booms, and out-of-the-box thinking is encouraged. 

Here are key advantages of creativity in the workplace:

• Professional Growth: Creativity in the workplace promotes an environment conducive to continuous learning and development. Employees are encouraged to engage in divergent thinking, exploring various perspectives and solutions. This fosters personal and professional growth as they tackle challenges creatively, opening up additional opportunities for employees.
• Innovation and Opportunities: Creative ideas catalyze innovation, driving businesses forward in competitive markets. By encouraging employees to think outside the box, companies can uncover innovative solutions to complex problems, opening new avenues for growth and expansion.
• Positive Outcomes and Solutions: Embracing creativity cultivates a culture where failures are viewed as stepping stones to success rather than setbacks. Employees are more inclined to take calculated risks and experiment with new ideas, leading to freedom of discovery.
• Inclusive Environment: A culture of creativity fosters inclusivity by valuing diverse perspectives and contributions. Employees feel empowered to express their ideas freely, knowing that their voices are heard and respected. This creates a sense of belonging and encourages collaboration among team members.
• Enhanced Everyday Work Life: Creativity injects excitement and inspiration into everyday work life, making tasks more engaging and fulfilling. Employees are motivated to explore fresh ideas and approaches, leading to a more dynamic and enjoyable work environment.

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7 Tips To Inspire Creativity In The Workplace

If you want to provide employees with the freedom to experiment with innovative ideas without the fear of failure, it is essential to foster creative workplaces. However, creativity in business rarely takes center stage, so most business owners don’t know where to start in their commitment to creativity. To make the process easier, we have collated some inventive solutions to help you spark creativity in the workplace. 

1. Encourage Creativity With an Inclusive and Fun Team Environment

A genuine team-based environment , in which leaders encourage connections through collaboration and social time, is essential for innovative teamwork. Managers will notice a remarkable difference when the effort is made to “de-silo” the organization. Instead of staying separate and heads-down on only their projects, employees should have the opportunity to interact with colleagues in different departments to gain an informed understanding of the company as a whole. This will spark creative thinking and allow for ideas and inspiration to flow freely across departments.

Additionally, humour in the workplace plays a significant role in team-bonding. Research shows that humour can reduce stress, increase relationship building, and create better cohesion. You can create a "water cooler" channel on Slack or similar chat software to allow your employees to enjoy some office banter, especially if your team is remote or hybrid. You can also add buffer time to your team meetings to allow time for everyone to chat about their weekend plans or other casual conversations. 

Of course, humour should be universal and non-exclusionary. Avoid any hot-button topics or things that run the risk of being mean-spirited such as pranks or teasing. It’s also important to note that sarcasm—while common—can “have a corrosive effect” and even come across as degrading when it’s at someone’s expense.  A playful but polite company culture helps create a sense of belonging and safety, which is the gateway to creative expression and thought-generation. 

2. Promote Creativity Through Office Design

A creative company prioritizes an exciting workspace that inspires creativity and innovation. Even if your office layout is more cubicles than open space, there are still ways that you can help employees feel inspired by their surroundings. For example, you can encourage employees to bring in photos, prints, or small decorative objects from home. You can also hang some artwork on the wall and bring in task lighting and tall lamps. 

Add office plants to help purify the air and bring a touch of nature inside. These simple steps bring an inherent element of creativity into any space. You should also consider investing in sit-stand desks to give your employees flexibility and better health, as backaches aren’t conducive to creative thinking. These elements, along with others, can create an atmosphere in which employees feel more comfortable and creative. 

3. Provide Freedom and Flexibility in How Work is Done

Creativity in the workplace does not have to mean creativity in the workspace. Sometimes a change of scenery can help spark new ideas. Every now and then, switch up your team routine with off-site and walking meetings. Brainstorming at a coffee shop might generate more ideas than you think, as it helps to break up the routine. You should also encourage any remote or hybrid employees to do the same.

If your employees have returned to the office full-time, consider expanding or updating your current remote work policy to allow employees more flexibility while helping them cut costs and save employees time when it comes to commuting. Offering flexibility in the workplace is essential for not just creativity, but also retention and recruitment , “with 80% of employees identifying it as a crucial factor in job evaluation".

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4. Offer the Space for Knowledge Sharing

There is no shortage of talent and skills within your organization that are just waiting to be passed on. Encouraging your employees to share what they know and what they can do with other coworkers fosters a culture of collaboration which helps spark creativity and allows teams to overcome challenges through creative solutions. This can be done through lunch-and-learns or special classes taught over video or in small groups. Sessions can include Excel tips, LinkedIn profile best practices, and guided meditation/yoga.

Sessions are a great way for your team members to discover new interests or passions that they can master and apply in their roles or to help maintain their work-life balance. By providing a platform for your people to engage in knowledge exchanges, they’ll benefit from professional development in the forms of thought leadership, increased confidence, and increased creativity.

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5. Encourage the Practice of Self-Reflection

Encourage employees to get in the habit of self-reflection check-ins. This exercise helps them to focus on what they’ve achieved, as well as what’s coming up next and helps inspire them to see things differently. Rise’s performance management feature includes weekly check-ins . Employees are prompted to rate their week, what went well, and what could’ve gone better. 

It’s a great way for managers to keep track of how an employee is doing, while also giving the employee a chance to reflect on their work. If possible, also share monthly or quarterly accomplishments with your team so they can see the concrete results of their contributions. 

6. Support Employees in Creative Risk-Taking

Cultivate an office culture that rewards creative risk-taking . One reason why employees are not thinking out of the box or proposing different solutions could be due to a fear of making mistakes and not having their ideas supported. As much as possible, make it clear to your employees that your organization values creativity—and understands its importance. 

This can be communicated by being receptive to new ideas and recognizing risk-takers for the impact they've made. As well, be open to feedback and suggestions from your employees. Provide an open door policy or offer an anonymous outlet for anyone who wishes to share their thoughts privately.

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7. Encourage Healthy Competition 

Healthy competition in the workplace can be encouraged through various means, fostering innovation and creativity. Business owners can initiate challenges that stimulate employees' innovation skills and encourage the flow of ideas. By promoting a culture that embraces risk-taking and learning from failure, employees feel empowered to explore innovative solutions to challenges.  Through fostering a competitive edge, teams strive to outperform each other, driving them to push boundaries and generate novel ideas. 

Discover How to Encourage a Healthy and Creative Working Environment 

Rise 's people management platform fosters a positive working environment by prioritizing employee engagement and satisfaction. With features like seamless onboarding, performance tracking, and feedback mechanisms, it promotes transparency and communication.

By streamlining HR processes and empowering employees, Rise cultivates a culture of trust, collaboration, and growth. This creates a supportive atmosphere where individuals thrive, leading to a happier and more productive workforce.

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Cherry Jello Poke Cake: Tips, Ideas, and More!

E asy cake ideas that look beautiful and taste even better. Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of Cherry Jello Poke Cake .

This iconic dessert combines the nostalgic flavors of cherry jello with the comforting goodness of cake, creating a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Join us as we explore this beloved dessert, share some expert tips, and offer creative ideas to elevate your Cherry Jello Poke Cake game.

History and Background of Jell-O Poke Cake

Cherry Jello Poke Cake holds a special place in the hearts of dessert enthusiasts everywhere. Its origins can be traced back to the mid-20th century when gelatin-based desserts were all the rage.

Over the years, this simple yet satisfying treat has evolved, with bakers adding their own unique twists and flavor combinations.

Today, Cherry Jello Poke Cake remains a beloved classic, cherished for its vibrant colors, refreshing taste, and undeniable charm.

Tips for Making Cherry Jello Poke Cake

• Start with a sturdy cake base, such as a vanilla or white cake, to provide the perfect canvas for the cherry jello.
• Use a fork or skewer to poke holes evenly throughout the cake once it’s cooled. This will allow the jello to seep into every delicious nook and cranny.
• Prepare the cherry jello according to the package instructions, but use slightly less water to create a firmer consistency that will hold up well in the cake.
• Pour the prepared jello over the cake while it’s still warm, allowing it to soak into the holes and infuse the cake with flavor.
• Refrigerate the cake for several hours or overnight to allow the jello to set completely before serving. This will ensure that each slice is perfectly moist and flavorful.

Creative Ideas for Presentation for a Jell-O Poke Cake

Now that your Cherry Jello Poke Cake is ready to go, it’s time to get creative with your presentation! Here are some fun ideas to inspire you:

• Top the cake with a layer of whipped cream or frosting for an extra indulgent touch.
• Garnish each slice with fresh cherries or cherry pie filling for a burst of color and flavor.
• Serve the cake in individual jars or glasses for a fun twist on traditional presentation.
• Experiment with different cake shapes and sizes, such as cupcakes or mini bundt cakes, for a playful variation.

Cherry Jell-O Poke Cake

You will need the following items to make this recipe:

Measuring cups, large bowl and mixer or stand mixer, silicone spatula, 9×13 cake pan, skewer sticks or large fork, medium saucepan, whisk

Ingredients:

• 1 box (13.25 oz) white cake mix, plus ingredients listed on the box (ours called for 1 ¼ cups water, ½ cup oil, 4 eggs whites)
• 3 oz box cherry Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 8 oz whipped topping
• 12 maraschino cherries

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees, and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

• In a large bowl, beat the cake mix, water, oil, and egg whites for 3 minutes.
• Bake for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
• Remove the cake from the oven, and allow to cool for 5-10 minutes.
• Poke holes all over the cake every ½ inch or so using a skewer stick or large fork.
• Prepare the jello by bringing 1 cup of water to a boil, and stirring in the gelatin until dissolved. Stir in another 1 cup of water, and whisk for 3 minutes.
• Slowly pour the prepared liquid over the cake, allowing it to absorb into the holes.

Refrigerate for 4 hours.

• To serve, top with whipped topping and maraschino cherries.

Variations and Flavor Combinations: One of the best things about Cherry Jello Poke Cake is its versatility.

Here are some creative variations and flavor combinations to try:

• Swap out the cherry jello for other fruity flavors like strawberry, raspberry, or orange for a fun twist on the classic recipe.
• Add a layer of creamy pudding between the cake and jello for an extra decadent treat.
• Incorporate chopped nuts or coconut into the cake batter for added texture and flavor.
• For an adult-friendly version, add a splash of rum or vodka to the jello mixture for a boozy kick.

And there you have it – everything you need to know to create the perfect Cherry Jello Poke Cake!

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this delightful dessert is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of cherry-infused bliss. Happy baking!

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• Moist Cherry Almond Cake
• Hot Milk Cupcakes with Whipped Cream and Cherries
• Lucky Charms Hot Chocolate Bombs
• Almond Cherry Cookies

Turn a white cake mix

into a colorful, moist, and delicious cake with the addition of jello.

Ingredients

Instructions.

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees, and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
• Refrigerate for 4 hours. 

Did you make this recipe?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

The post Cherry Jello Poke Cake: Tips, Ideas, and More! appeared first on Ever After in the Woods .