A great product should sell itself but, in reality, it needs your help. Small-business owners often find it successful to show off an item in a product presentation, which alerts the audience to the next great thing. Positive presentations are successful ones. Many times, the way you speak about a product is the impetus for others to buy it. Prepare for a successful presentation, but focus on its content and your form.

Consider Function

Determine the purpose of your presentation to decide what to say and how you need to say it. The first step is identifying your audience. For example, you might be showing your product at a trade show, giving information to a group of potential customers, or speaking in front of corporation executive who will decide whether to buy your product. It is easier to decide on a main presentation tactic, such as informative or persuasive, once you consider who is listening.

Knowledge and Research

Your presentation might focus on a product that's new to you and your company. You must learn as much about it as possible so that your knowledge is apparent to potential buyers. Get your fact sheet ready by noting such things as manufacturer’s cost, primary and secondary functions, suggested retail value, how it compares to similar products on the market and, most importantly, how it will make the purchaser’s life easier, better or more enjoyable. When deciding on what information to disseminate, you need to again consider the audience. For example, if these are customers, you need to reflect on what they probably already know and then decide what else to tell them.

Prepare Speech

Write down what you plan to say so you can practice. Every presentation must have an introduction, key content and a conclusion. Begin by introducing yourself and your company briefly to your audience. Then you can reveal your product, which you should have with you. If it is too large or for some other reason not presentable, provide a visual representation. Refer to your fact sheet to highlight the item’s purposes and benefits. Use positive and upbeat descriptions when referring to your product. Give examples of how people have used the item to their benefit. Telling positive stories associated with the product will make it more appealing. Conclude your speech by reviewing your main points and opening the floor to questions.

Details that Matter

Practice and polish your speech before you make it. Dress in business attire, groom yourself carefully and make sure your palms are dry for shaking hands. Stand straight but with a relaxed attitude. Smile and look at your audience. Make connections with warm expressions, changes in your tone and positive body language, which is open and animated. Keep your voice up and enunciate well so others do not strain to hear you. Take natural breaths and pause when you need to. Do not get flustered over small mistakes, but move on with your presentation.