Loose Briefs Cause Grief - and I'm not talking undies...

We’ve all been there, right? You check your inbox at the end of a busy day, and there it is: a last-minute email from your boss asking if you can “quickly cover” something for tomorrow’s leadership meeting. No details on what they really want, no context, just a “thanks heaps” at the end. You’re left wondering, “What am I supposed to focus on? How much time will I have? And, wait—do they even need slides?”

Loose briefs like this are surprisingly common and one of the main reasons presentations miss the mark. Asking a few simple questions up front saves you from late-night guesswork and ensures you deliver a focused, impactful presentation.

Why a Tight Brief Matters

Vague presentations come from vague briefs. So, start by clarifying the essentials: why and when you’re presenting, how much time you have, what outcome is expected, and what’s most relevant to the audience. These quick questions up front save time later—and prevent that waffling, off-topic presentation we’ve all sat through!

Know Your ‘Playing Field’

Just like a sports match, your presentation’s success depends on knowing the “playing field” – timing, setting, and equipment:

• Timing: Check not only the duration but also the time of day. Presenting at the end of a long day? Adjust to keep things punchy.
• Setting: In-person or virtual? For in-person, clarify the layout and AV setup (we’ve all had that “oh no, wrong cable” moment). Virtual presentations often need a tighter rhythm to hold attention.
• Equipment: Make sure the tech works, whether it’s a TV, mic, or software. Having a backup plan can save you from unexpected tech stress on the day.

Beyond “The Way We’ve Always Done It”

It’s easy to rely on old templates and slides, especially for recurring updates. But if the presentation feels stale, it may not be hitting the mark. Updating content and format can make a huge difference, bringing clarity and impact back into the presentation.

Thoughtful Prep Pays Off

Starting with a clear brief and knowing the details keeps things efficient, giving you an edge, fewer stumbles, and more engagement with your audience. This is at the core of what we teach at The Pickering Group—because a presentation isn’t just about information, it’s about connection.

If you’d like to chat about how these strategies can work for your team, let me know. We’d love to help bring these tips to life in your presentations.

You've got this!