Powerpoint is a great tool if you are making a presentation to a group of clients, prospects or colleagues.

But don’t let your presentation software upstage you, advises Melanie Novis, a professional speech and communications coach and president of Toronto-based Corporate Speech Consultants.

Novis and Cathleen Fillmore, owner of Speakers Gold, a Toronto-based speakers’ bureau, offer these tips to help you make a powerful impression on your audience, even if you’re not a professional speaker:

> Be Brief.

When preparing your presentation, put no more than six bullet points on each slide; any more is text-heavy and difficult to read.

> Mix It Up.

Use a mixture of bullet points, graphs and graphics — as well as pictures — to add visual variety.

> Be Prepared.

On the day of the presentation, check in advance to ensure all equipment is working properly and you know how to operate it.

>  Position Yourself.

Stand to the left of the screen. This adds balance, as people read from left to right.

> Don’t “Hide” Behind Your Powerpoint.

Use what’s on the screen as a backup to what you have to say. Remember that the people are there to see you, not just your slides.

> Don’t Be Nervous.

Keep in mind that the audience is on your side.

“Most people want you to succeed,” Novis says. IE