So you have a presentation to give to an audience of potential buyers. You’ve done your homework, you’ve prepared a detailed presentation, and you’re ready to “wow” them with your words of wisdom. The big question is this: Are you prepared to ask for action and close the deal? One of the most frustrating situations in sales is when you’ve done all the background work, you’ve presented your product or service, but then there are no results at the end of it all. And then you ask yourself, “What am I doing wrong?” In order to actually persuade your audience to take action and buy your product or service, there are several things you need to do. Here are some persuasion tips that can make the difference between just giving a presentation and actually seeing orders and new business come in: Illustrate and capture attention. Whether it’s as an introduction, or through an anecdote within your presentation, make sure you share an illustration or story from your own life that actually taught you a lesson. This learning experience will grab the attention of your audience, and leave them eager to hear your story and learn more from your experiences. Tie this lesson into whatever it is you are trying to convey. State the action you want. Make sure that you clearly address the action that you want the audience to take. If they need to sign up for future communications, try a free sample, or meet with you individually, verbalize what it is that you need or want them to do next. Outline benefits. Make sure your audience knows and understand the benefits they will enjoy by taking the action that you have asked for. Be clear about why they should do whatever it is you’ve asked them to do, and what is in it for them when they do. Make yourself available for the future. Leave your audience with the desired action having been taken, and with some way for them to contact you. Obviously, share your business card, any toll-free phone number that makes it easy for them to call you, and any literature or follow-up materials that will encourage use of your product or service. Follow-up. As soon as is appropriate, follow up with your audience. Make sure you’ve gotten their business information, and make phone calls or write letters expressing your gratitude or interest in talking with them soon. For those who have taken the actions you were looking for, acknowledge them and develop a rapport for future business. Persuading your audience is crucial for seeing all your presentation efforts pay off. By improving your communication strategies, you will see better results and a higher level of sales. | 
