Have you ever felt comfortable explaining an idea to a colleague, then struggled to explain that same idea in a presentation?
Suddenly, your sentences get longer. You reach for words you wouldn’t normally use. You start sounding like someone giving a speech.
It’s an easy habit to fall into. Standing in front of a group can make us feel as though we need a more formal version of ourselves.
But think about what helps you connect when someone speaks to you.
You can follow their thinking. Their words feel natural. You feel included in what they’re saying.
Bring some of that conversational quality into your next presentation.
Imagine a colleague asking, “What do you mean by that?” How would you explain your idea to them?
You might say, “Here’s what happened,” or “Let me give you an example.” You’d probably use shorter sentences and familiar words. You might even ask a question to find out whether they’d had a similar experience.
Those choices can work in front of a group, too.
For example, “We need to facilitate more effective cross-functional communication” could become, “We need to make it easier for our teams to talk to each other.”
The second version gives people less language to work through before they reach your point.
Try this before your next talk:
Choose one section that feels stiff when you say it aloud.
Put your notes aside and record yourself explaining the idea as though you were talking to a colleague over coffee.
Listen for phrases that sound clear and natural. Bring those into your presentation, then practice again.
You can be thoughtful, prepared, and professional while still sounding like yourself.
Which part of your next presentation would be easier to follow if you made it more conversational?