Depending on their attention, interest and motivation, people have different capacities to process and remember information. That is why it is important that you clearly structure the content when putting together a presentation. That way you decide beforehand what people will remember of your presentation afterwards.

The most important thing here is determining the core message of your presentation. The core message is the most important message you want to convey in your presentation, brought together in one or a few sentences. What do you want the audience to be sure to remember? Everything else you add to your presentation must have a direct link to this core message.

A few tips for drawing up a strong core message:

• Consider what the most important message is that you want to convey. What is the essence of your story?
• Think about what is important for the target group -your audience-. What do they want to know and hear?
• Formulate the core message as a simple sentence. Do not use jargon or complicated words.
• Make sure the core message is formulated positively.
• Keep the core message short and powerful, preferably no longer than one sentence.

Why is the core message so important for your presentation?

1. Creates a framework Use the core message as the opener of your presentation. In this way you create a clear framework of what the rest of your presentation will be about and what the audience can expect from the presentation.
2. Clarity and focus A strong core message provides clarity and focus in the build-up of your presentation. It prevents you as the presenter and the audience from being overwhelmed by too much information or different messages.
3. Impact and retention A clear core message will have a deeper impact on the audience. In addition, people remember information better and more easily when it is presented simply and concisely.
4. Consistency A clear core message ensures consistency in the presentation and strengthens the cohesion between the different parts. After all, each part has a direct link to the core message. It helps to prevent confusion and strengthens the credibility of the presentation and of you as the presenter.
5. Attention and audience engagement A strong start to your presentation will immediately involve the audience in the subject and motivate them to listen actively and take part in the presentation. It sets the tone for the rest of the presentation and lays the foundation for a positive interaction between the presenter and the audience.

Thinking carefully about the formulation of the core message is therefore very crucial for the rest of the presentation.

Having one clear core message in a presentation helps to bring the message across clearly, memorably, impactfully, consistently, convincingly and efficiently. It is an essential strategy for effective communication and presentation skills.

Need help with your next presentation and determining the core message of your presentation?

Take a look at our references and get in touch with us quickly.

Good luck Harald