How Should You begin Your Sales Presentation [9 Solid Ideas]
- Ink Narrates | The Presentation Design Agency
- Oct 27, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 24
“Honestly, we don’t know where to start. Should we introduce the product, or talk about the problem first? We need this presentation to win over some very tough decision-makers,”
Said Melita (One of our clients).
Our Creative Director answered,
“The problem isn’t where to start—it’s starting with the wrong focus. Jumping straight into product details without framing the context first is like walking into a room full of strangers and bragging about yourself. You’ll lose them before you even begin.”
This conversation, like so many we’ve had as a presentation design agency, served as the inspiration for this blog. Real client dilemmas like this drive our ideas because these are the very questions that keep your sales presentations from landing with the impact they deserve. So, let’s dive into nine strong ideas on how to start your sales presentation effectively.
In case you didn't know, we specialize in only one thing: making presentations. We can help you by designing your slides and writing your content too.
How Should You begin Your Sales Presentation [9 Solid Ideas]
1. Highlight a Major Shift in the World
Start by addressing a significant change or trend that directly affects your audience. It demonstrates that you’re not just selling a product—you’re offering a solution tailored to the evolving world around them.
For example: “The rise of remote work has transformed the way businesses operate. But with this shift comes new challenges in team collaboration and productivity. Today, we’ll explore how you can not only adapt but thrive in this new reality.”
This approach shows you’re in tune with the broader picture and positions your solution as timely and essential.
2. Ask a Question That Stops Them in Their Tracks
Nothing sparks attention like a question that forces your audience to think. The trick is to ask something they can’t ignore—something that points straight to their pain points.
For instance: “Do you know how much revenue is slipping through the cracks because of outdated processes? What if I told you we could help recover that loss and turn it into growth?”
By framing the question around their challenges, you immediately engage them on a personal level.
3. Share a Relatable Personal Story
People connect with stories, especially ones that show you’ve walked in their shoes. Sharing a personal anecdote makes you more approachable and shows that you genuinely understand their struggles.
For example: “I remember the chaos of managing multiple client accounts without the right tools.
Deadlines slipped, emails went unanswered, and the stress was relentless. That experience drove me to find the solution I’m excited to share with you today.”
This technique builds trust while seamlessly introducing your solution.
4. Make a Bold Promise
A confident, bold opening sets the tone and piques curiosity. It shows you’re here to deliver results, not just talk.
For instance: “In the next 15 minutes, I’ll show you how you can cut operational costs by 40% without compromising quality. Let’s dive in.”
This opening not only grabs attention but also sets clear expectations for what’s to come.
5. Quote Someone They Respect
Borrowing wisdom from an industry leader or an influential figure lends credibility and establishes authority right off the bat.
For example: “Steve Jobs once said, ‘Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.’ Today, I’ll show you how we’re helping companies like yours lead the pack.”
Quoting someone respected within their field creates instant relatability and sets a high standard for your presentation.
6. Lead with a Striking Visual
A powerful image or visual can communicate a message in seconds—something words often take far longer to achieve.
Imagine starting your presentation with a graph showing their industry’s biggest challenges or a before-and-after snapshot of what your solution delivers. For instance: “This is what your industry looked like five years ago. Here’s where it’s heading—and why we need to talk.”
It’s a visual shortcut to capturing their attention.
7. Shock Them with a Statistic
Numbers don’t just inform; they can shock, intrigue, or even motivate your audience to act.
For example: “Did you know that 85% of companies miss out on growth opportunities because they fail to streamline their processes? Let’s make sure you’re in the 15%.”
Statistics like these validate your expertise and build urgency for your solution.
8. Use Humor to Break the Ice
When done right, humor can create an instant connection and put your audience at ease. But make it relevant and professional—don’t overdo it.
For instance: “I know what you’re thinking—‘Not another presentation!’ But don’t worry, this one’s going to be different. Let’s make it worth your time.”
A little laughter can make you more likable, setting the stage for a more engaged audience.
9. Create a Sense of Mystery
Open with a tease that makes your audience curious to learn more. Leave them wondering how you’ll solve the puzzle you’ve just presented.
For example: “There’s one key decision your competitors are making that’s giving them an edge—and today, I’ll reveal how you can do it better.”
This approach taps into their natural curiosity and keeps them hooked for what’s next.
Starting your sales presentation the right way isn’t just an artistic choice—it’s strategic. These nine approaches aren’t gimmicks; they’re designed to establish credibility, create a connection, and lay the groundwork for a compelling pitch. Whichever method you choose, remember: the goal is to make your audience feel like they’re in the right room, with the right solution, and the right partner.
Why Hire Us to Build your Presentation?
If you're reading this, you're probably working on a presentation right now. You could do it all yourself. But the reality is - that’s not going to give you the high-impact presentation you need. It’s a lot of guesswork, a lot of trial and error. And at the end of the day, you’ll be left with a presentation that’s “good enough,” not one that gets results. On the other hand, we’ve spent years crafting thousands of presentations, mastering both storytelling and design. Let us handle this for you, so you can focus on what you do best.