The Simple Rule That Instantly Improves Stage Presence
Here’s a simple tip for public speaking that will improve stage presence immediately: only use a slide if it adds to your presentation.
It’s that simple. Too many speakers lean on slides to mask nerves, overfill them with text to remember a script, and then wonder why the audience tunes out.
If you’re thinking about how to open a presentation, start by deciding what must be seen versus what’s better said.
Why We Overuse Slides
Slides feel safe. When eyes drift to the screen, you feel less “on the spot.”
However, safety is not the goal – connection is.
If you don’t know your material, make better notes and rehearse. If you feel nervous, don’t add more slides; add more reps.
That’s one of the most reliable tips for public speaking: confidence comes from preparation, not PowerPoint.
I currently deliver a one-hour keynote with zero slides.
Why? Because the ideas are easy to grasp without visuals, and I want the audience’s complete attention. When a slide appears, people read ahead or stare at the corner of the room rather than engage with you.
If you want to improve stage presence, remove competing focal points unless a visual truly enhances understanding.
A Quick Decision Framework for Every Slide
Before you keep or create a slide, ask yourself these questions:
1️⃣ Does this visual clarify what words can’t?
Charts, complex diagrams, or product images – keep.
Bullet dumps – delete.
2️⃣ Will it make the moment more memorable?
One striking photo > ten forgettable text slides.
3️⃣ Does it serve timing and flow?
If the slide forces you to turn your back to read, it’s working against your stage presence.
👉 If you can’t answer “yes” to at least one of these, you don’t need the slide.
How to Open a Presentation Without Hiding Behind Slides
Your opening sets the tone and builds a connection. Try one of these slide-free starts:
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The One-Line Hook: A bold statement or question that frames the problem. (Perfect if you’re wondering how to open a presentation with impact.)
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The 20-Second Story: A vivid, specific moment that tees up your core point.
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The Promise: “In the next 10 minutes, you’ll leave with X, Y, and Z.”
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The Contrast: “Most teams do A. The best teams do B. Here’s why.”
Deliver your first 60-90 seconds with no visuals. It’s one of the simplest tips for public speaking, and it will improve stage presence instantly.
Replace Slide-Dependence With Audience Connection
To build confidence and presence without leaning on slides:
✅ Rehearse out loud. Build muscle memory so you’re not tempted to read.
✅ Use a one-page crib sheet. Keywords only – no paragraphs.
✅ Mark your beats. Know exactly where to pause, move, and drive key lines. Intentional movement improves stage presence more than any animation ever will.
✅ Add visuals sparingly. If a prop or live demo communicates better than a slide, use that instead.
Ultimately, the goal is to make you the focus – not your deck.
Final Thoughts
Open your deck and ask, “Does this siphon attention?” If it doesn’t help, delete it.
Keep only what clarifies or amplifies your message. Control the room by being the focus; don’t let your slides steal the show.
So next time you’re preparing how to open a presentation, remember this: fewer slides = stronger presence = deeper connection.
👉 Want to master your delivery? Visit my Keynote Speaker page to see how I help leaders and teams present with confidence, clarity, and connection.