An Expert Guide to Using Slides in Business Video Presentations

Slides are to business video presentations what seasoning is to a dish — they add flavor and depth to your message.

Whether you’re unveiling a new product, announcing company changes, or training employees, using slides can make the information easier to digest and retain, leading to an impactful video presentation. 

That said, when it comes to actually using them in videos, people often get it wrong. Your slides should add value to your video presentation by highlighting key points, using engaging visuals, and helping the viewer follow along. 

Here are the top considerations to keep in mind.

1. Create Slides with Subtitles in Mind
2. Use Simple Transitions and Animations
3. Design Slides for Mobile
4. Make the Information Clear and Legible

[#TOC1]1. Create Slides with Subtitles in Mind[#TOC1]

Subtitles offer sticking points for viewers, helping them quickly comprehend the content. 

According to one US survey, 53% of millennials and 70% of Gen Z use subtitles most of the time. Given that these two generations will comprise the majority of the current workforce by 2025, subtitles are a must-have. 

Plus, subtitles are vital for noisy workplaces like a factory or for countries that legally require translations, such as Canada.

That said, your audience doesn’t want to be overwhelmed with too much text. Here are some key considerations when trying to strike the right balance between subtitles and other text on your slides:

• Less is More: limit the text you have on each slide. Fewer words means the viewer is more likely to catch everything being displayed and said. 
• Keep it Brief: stick to short bullet points or key phrases. This makes it easier for your audience to follow along without getting bogged down with too much detail.
• Visual Support: sprinkle in charts, graphs, and images to back up your points. They add depth to your message, make it more engaging, and can even substitute text at times.
• Slide Layout: arrange the elements on your slides strategically. You don't want anything important getting lost behind subtitles, so plan your layout with care.

[#TOC2]2. Use Simple Transitions and Animations[#TOC2]

When you watching a talking head video, you focus on the subject because it feels like a one-on-one interaction. However, people can lose interest and attention fast, depending on the subject of the video.

Good practice is to keep things engaging by adding some transitions, animations, and elements to your slides. By doing so, you keep your viewers hooked.

However, you want to use them in a sensible way. Here’s how: 

• Keep Transitions Simple: unlike regular PowerPoint presentations, where transitions can add flair, in video content, they can distract from the main message. Opt for subtle fade-ins or slide transitions that complement the speaker's narrative.
• Sync with Speech: time slide animations and transitions with natural pauses or shifts in the presenter's speech so that viewers don’t lose focus and interest.
• Prioritize Clarity and Simplicity: focus on clear visuals and concise text over flashy effects. This gives the audience a chance to easily grasp the content without being overwhelmed.
• Allow Time for Digestion: since video presentations lack interactivity, give viewers sufficient time to absorb slide content. Avoid rushing through slides and allow ample time for reading before transitioning to the next one.

[#TOC3]3. Design Slides for Mobile[#TOC3]

75% of viewers watch videos on their mobile devices. 

Your slides therefore need to be optimized for the small screen. This entails ensuring your content remains clear and engaging, even on smaller screens. 

Pay attention to font size, amount of information, and orientation to maximize the impact of your slides on mobile platforms. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Optimize Font Size: choose a font size that's easily readable on mobile screens. Tip — design a sample slide with placeholder text, and view it on a mobile device to check if it’s legible or not.
• Streamline Content: prioritize key messages and avoid overwhelming mobile viewers with too much information. Keep it concise and focused.
• Choose Legible Fonts: select fonts that are clear and readable across various screen sizes and resolutions. Avoid complex or decorative fonts that may be hard to read on smaller screens.

[#TOC4]4. Make the Information Clear and Legible[#TOC4]

You want to wow your audience and keep them seated with the first slide. 

Remember, every detail matters, from camera placement to visual consistency. Keep these cliff notes handy as you create your video presentation:

• Place Your Camera Right: when recording your camera and screen simultaneously, be mindful of your head placement to avoid covering important slide information. This ensures that viewers can focus on the content without distractions.
• Assess Text and Background Contrast: check if your text is readable against the background color. Opt for a high-contrast combination, such as black text on a white or light-colored background, to maximize legibility.
• Use Simple Fonts: stick to a single font for headings and another for body text to maintain clarity and organization. Consistent font sizes across slides help viewers follow the information hierarchy effortlessly.
• Keep Visuals Consistent: consistent fonts and colors give your audience a smooth viewing experience while also reinforcing your brand identity. 

Using slides for your video presentations drives engagement and boosts video play rates. But, they need to look slick and professional so that your audience sticks around and gets the message.