You wouldn’t write a book without sketching an outline first. So why would you create a PowerPoint presentation without first developing a template?
The truth is, many companies make this mistake. And it almost always leads to the same outcome: poorly formatted presentations with dense content, sloppy design and inconsistent branding. Given that most PowerPoint presentations play an important role in the sales process, this is a mistake you can’t afford to make.
Need more convincing? Here are other reasons why templates often mean the difference between a powerful presentation and a mediocre one.
Saves time and money. When you create a new presentation, it’s a lot easier — and faster — to choose from a predetermined set of slides versus creating slides from scratch. And saving time, as you know, means saving money.
Ensures quality control while reducing costs. If you invest in the design of a template that’s polished and professional, you’ll get a professional-looking deck every time — without having to incur more design costs down the road.
Creates visual consistency. If your presentation features any icons, charts, or other visual elements, they need to match those that appear on your website and other collateral. Frankly, if your work lacks a consistent look-and-feel, your company will look amateurish or incompetent.
Reinforces the brand. Your presentations should complement, not compete with, every other branded element that comes out of your company. A branded template looks professional and gives your audience a clear idea of who you are as a company.
Organizes your story. A great story can leave a lasting impression on your audience, but only if you know how tell that story clearly and effectively. A template can give you the structure you need to pull that off in the context of a PowerPoint.
So while you might be tempted to skip the step of creating a template, don’t. A great template will make your life easier, make your company look better and make your presentation a whole lot stronger.
Most importantly, it’ll help you seal your next deal.