How did you get started in Presentation design and what drew you to it?
My first job used Microsoft PowerPoint quite a bit, I was shocked with how creative you can be with it and how impressed others were when I told them, “this was made in PowerPoint”. I found myself going down a rabbit hole and ultimately started searching for a job as a presentation designer, which is a rare one!
How do you incorporate storytelling elements into a slide deck?
Firstly, I align the narrative with the client’s needs, then begin to start structuring the deck in a clear, logical, and concise flow. I also review it just to be safe, often with others. This is to ensure the story makes sense, not just to me but to the intended audience.
What’s the best way to simplify complex information in a presentation?
The best way is to start by breaking it into clear & digestible points. Focus on the core message and use visuals or structure to guide users. Remove anything that doesn’t support the main idea. Similar to the previous question, I review the content with others to ensure it makes sense.
What’s the most creative or memorable presentation you’ve ever designed?
Some of the most creative presentations I’ve worked on are highly animated and stitch together content in a refreshing and clear way. It’s also super nice when clients are as eager to be creative, with suggestions and ideas they might have seen recently that raise the bar. It’s always good to level up in new areas across projects.
When you hear the phrase ‘Death by PowerPoint’, what is your response?
“Death by PowerPoint” is a good reminder that slides should support a message, not overwhelm them. It’s quite commonly used, like “death by bullet point” etc. They’re all reminders to change that perspective!
What do you like to do outside of work, and does it influence your design?
I’m keen on 35mm film and have dabbled with 8mm film too. This hobby and work have some cross overs, like structure, balance, and visual hierarchy. Other things like walking the dog and supporting the best football team in the North West (Wigan Athletic, that is) don’t necessarily meet that criteria!
Finally, what advice would you give to people looking to move into a creative role like yours?
Focus on crafting work that shows clarity, visual hierarchy, and storytelling! these are the core skills we use every day. Most importantly, get stuck into it, go down rabbit holes and find unique things that you think PowerPoint could do as good, if not better.
