Abigail Stryker 
As 2026 approaches, many PR folks turn their attention to year-end presentations; those recap meetings where we review the past year’s accomplishments with clients, leadership, or stakeholders to demonstrate value and secure buy-in for the year ahead. But let’s be real; most year-end presentations could use some work. I’ve definitely created presentations that were more data-focused than story-driven, and I’ve learned there’s a better way. These meetings are fantastic opportunities to strengthen relationships and drive decision-making, but only if they’re strategic and engaging rather than just reciting numbers.
Maven recently participated in a two-session training with Dana Band Group on delivering effective presentations. The insights gained transformed how I think about every presentation or client meeting, especially those critical end-of-year meetings. Here’s what matters:
Every Presentation Needs an Objective (Yes, Even Your Year-End Report)
This was probably the biggest lightbulb moment for me. Every presentation, even your standard end-of-year report, needs a meeting objective that results in action. Are you seeking approval for next year’s budget? Trying to renew a contract? Looking for support on a new initiative? Figure this out before you build a single slide, and you’ll have a much clearer path forward.
Speak to What Your Audience Actually Cares About
Generic presentations don’t usually inspire action. Content must speak directly to what your audience cares about, not what you think is impressive. For example, suppose I’m presenting to a nonprofit client who’s focused on increasing donations. In that case, I need to showcase how Maven’s work drove donor engagement and contributions, connecting the dots between our work and their goals. When you align your results with their priorities, your work becomes invaluable rather than just informative.
Manage Your Time Like You Mean It
The training taught us to designate a specific amount of time to deliver content (or updates), then budget additional time for questions, whether at the end or throughout the presentation. It was emphasized that you should go into every meeting with one to three key points that support your objective. This focus helps you stay on track and ensures your audience stays with you throughout the conversation.
Use Stories, Not Stats, to Show Your Success
One of the most valuable lessons from our training was learning to use storytelling to demonstrate success without sounding like you’re bragging. Stories show action and results in a way that raw data cannot. Instead of saying “We secured 15 media placements,” tell the story of how strategic pitching around a timely news angle led to a feature story that drove record website traffic and stakeholder inquiries.
Keep Your Audience Actually Engaged
Even the best content needs strong delivery. The training emphasized practical techniques like calling on specific audience members for their thoughts and using targeted or rhetorical questions to keep everyone present. These aren’t just presentation tricks; they’re essential tools for ensuring your message resonates and creates the impact you’re looking for.
Read the Room (And Don’t Be Afraid to Reschedule)
Lastly, if something is going on externally, impacting either or both parties, then your audience likely isn’t present and ready to engage. In this case, it might be worth considering rescheduling for a time when everyone can be fully focused. This is where successful communication requires honest assessment. Sometimes the most strategic move is rescheduling to have a more effective meeting and achieve the outcome you want. It might feel awkward to suggest moving the meeting, but it demonstrates respect for everyone’s time and commitment to making the conversation count.
As you prepare your year-end presentations this December, remember that successful communication is about focusing on what matters most to your audience and inspiring them to act. That’s what makes a presentation truly stand out. Thank you to Dana Band Group for an inspiring training and to Maven for being invested in the team’s continued education!
Posted In Public Relations, Thought Leadership