Let’s Talk About a Common Interview Presentation Mistake
Job interview presentations can feel overwhelming. There’s a lot on the line, and of course, you want to do your best.
So, what do most people do? They spend all their time perfecting the slides – cramming in details, making sure nothing gets left out… and then forget something crucial:
How you present matters just as much – if not more – than what’s on your slides.
A great presentation isn’t just about knowledge. It’s about connection. It’s about making sure your message is clear, engaging, and memorable.
I’ve seen how small changes can make a huge difference in how you come across. So, let’s go through three must-dos to make your presentation stand out – plus one bonus tip that can change everything.
1. Keep It Simple – Less Text, More YOU
I get it, when you’re nervous, your instinct is to put everything on your slides. Every detail. Every number. Every point. Just in case you forget something.
But here’s the problem: too much text doesn’t make you look prepared – it overwhelms your audience.
Ever heard of David JP Phillips’ TEDx talk “Death by PowerPoint”? He explains how too much text and cluttered slides actually make it harder for people to listen and absorb what you’re saying.
- Keep your slides minimal. Think of them as a visual guide, not your script.
- Replace text with visuals, charts, or icons. A simple graph is easier to digest than a paragraph.
- Use short, clear phrases instead of full sentences. Your slides should highlight key points, not overload the audience with information.
When your slides are simple, the focus stays on YOU – your voice, your presence, and your message.
2. Speak in a Way Anyone Can Understand
This is one of the biggest struggles I’ve seen. If you work in marketing, IT, finance, or any specialized field, you’re used to speaking in industry terms.
But here’s the thing – not everyone on your interview panel will understand your jargon.
Your panel might include a hiring manager who knows your field, but it will likely also include HR professionals, senior executives, or even potential teammates who work in different departments.
If you only speak in technical language, you’ll lose part of the room.
- Break it down. Explain things like you’re talking to a friend who doesn’t work in your field.
- Use analogies. Instead of saying, “We optimized our CTR by adjusting ad sequencing,” say, “We made sure people saw the right message at the right time, so more people clicked on our ads.”
- Check for understanding. If people look confused, pause. Rephrase. Give an example.
Clarity isn’t about dumbing things down – it’s about making sure your message is clear for everyone in the room.
3. Make Your Interview Presentation a Conversation
One of the biggest mistakes? Treating your presentation like a speech.
If you talk at your panel for 15 minutes straight, they’ll tune out. People’s attention spans are short.
So, turn your presentation into a conversation.
Many interview presentations are case studies, so the best way to engage your panel is to present as if you’re already part of the company. Instead of speaking hypothetically, talk like you’re already working on the project and finding the best solution with the team.
- Ask simple questions to showcase your expertise.
- Instead of: “This project improved customer satisfaction scores by 20%.”
- Try: “One of the biggest challenges in customer service is slow response times. If we apply this approach, we could reduce delays significantly. Have you ever had issues with long wait times in your team?”
- Present as if you’re already part of the company.
- “Right now, our goal is to make this process smoother for customers. With this new system, we could cut response times by half. Let’s take a look at how we can make this happen.”
- Make eye contact and involve the panel.
- If someone looks disengaged, bring them back in:
“This approach could really help simplify workflows. [Panelist’s name], does this sound like something that would work for your team?”
- If someone looks disengaged, bring them back in:
When your slides are simple, the focus stays on YOU – your voice, your presence, and your message.
Bonus Tip: Passion Changes Everything
If there’s one thing I want you to take away from this, it’s this:
Passion makes all the difference.
Even if you’re nervous.
Even if your slides aren’t perfect.
Even if you stumble on a word.
✔️ Interviewers can teach skills, but they can’t teach enthusiasm.
✔️ A candidate who cares will always stand out.
✔️ People want to work with someone who brings energy into the room.
✔️ Smile. It makes you look confident and approachable.
✔️ Use energy in your voice. If you sound excited, others will be excited to listen.
✔️ Tell a story. Instead of saying, “I improved processes by 20%” say “I love solving inefficiencies – one of my favorite projects was when I…”
Remember: Confidence is great, but passion is unforgettable.
Want to learn how to use storytelling to make your presentation even more engaging? Check out my post on how to tell compelling stories that capture your audience’s attention.
Make Your Presentation Work for You
A job interview presentation isn’t just about what you present – it’s about how you make the panel feel.
🔹 Keep your slides simple so the focus stays on you.
🔹 Make your message clear so everyone in the room understands.
🔹 Engage your panel so they stay with you, rather than just sitting through your presentation.
🔹 And most importantly – show them why you love what you do.
Nail these, and your presentation won’t just be good – it’ll be unforgettable.
Which of these tips do you need to work on most? Let me know in the comments!
“Your voice has power – own it. Your body fuels confidence – nurture it.”
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