SPEAKER: What makes a bad business presentation? Hi, meet Gary. Yesterday, Gary gave a big presentation, making some crucial mistakes. Let's check out the highlights. Testing the presentation assures that the audience can read the slides and technical difficulties won't interrupt his train of thought. He should make sure his slides can be read from the back row. 

Right off the bat, Gary could have set up an agenda. This would keep him better organized and prepare the audience for what's in store so they can better absorb his presentation. Every audience has a different knowledge level. Gary should customize the presentation in order to give them the best information. He could do this by asking questions at the beginning and then basing the presentation on those results. 

Look at this crazy-looking presentation. Gary could utilize some new programs for making charts and interesting graphics. Gary obviously didn't practice his presentation enough. He should prepare for the unexpected. If something unpredictable happens, he should have his presentation memorized. 

Body language is important. Studies show that good posture can increase confidence. Gary needs to tell a story. Making eye contact draws the audience in, and he needs to include one to two critical points per slide, then expand on them verbally. If he shows passion, the audience will respond in a good way. 

The audience looks bored. He really needs to ask them questions or get them to participate. He could even use a transition to re-engage them or spark a discussion with phrases like "I would also urge you to" or "this is important because." And he shouldn't be salesy. No one wants to sit through a sales pitch or gimmick. The audience will not remember him for selling his brand but for teaching them something they didn't know before.