Six Distracting Presentation Habits to Avoid
Author: Natalie Pastuszak
Date: September 08, 2025
I recently tuned into a webinar on digital marketing. The content was solid, but I found myself distracted by how it was presented. Instead of engaging fully, I ended up jotting down a list of presentation habits that get in the way of great content.
Presentations are a powerful tool to share information, educate, and spark action. But to achieve those goals, your delivery has to work with you.
Here are six common presentation habits to avoid if you want your message to land:
1. Relying on someone else to advance your slides
It may seem helpful, but handing off control of your slides is usually a distraction. Even the most experienced “slide advancer” will either move too quickly or too slowly, leaving you repeating “next slide” and breaking your flow.
The exception: fully virtual presentations where someone else is screen sharing. In that case, practice together so they know your pace and cues. A dry run is always worth it.
2. Covering too much material
One of the biggest mistakes presenters make is trying to say everything. A good rule of thumb is to cut at least 30% of the content you originally planned—not necessarily slides, but words and detail.
Remember, audiences are already overwhelmed with information. Today, attention spans average just 8 seconds, down from 12 two decades ago. Short, clear and memorable content wins.
3. Speaking in one tone
Your voice is as important as your content. A flat, monotone delivery can make even the best presentation forgettable. Tone conveys confidence, energy, and emotion—it’s how you connect.
Think variety: change your pitch, pace, and emphasis. Use tone intentionally to underscore your message. And always consider your audience—what language and style will resonate most with them?
4. Rushing through your talk
Nerves can make us speed through a presentation just to get it over with. But pauses are powerful. They let your audience catch up, add weight to your key points and create space for reflection.
Think of yourself as a guide, not a broadcaster. Slow down, embrace silence and let your audience stay with you.
5. Using outdated slides
Bad design is as distracting as bad delivery. Outdated fonts, clunky clip art, or text-heavy slides signal that little thought was put into presentation design.
Since 65% of people are visual learners, design matters. Use clean templates, modern fonts and consistent visuals. Tools like Canva make it easy to elevate your slides without overcomplicating them.
6. Treating it as a one-way conversation
It’s easy to focus so much on your content that you forget your audience. But engagement is what makes your message stick.
Ask questions. Use analogies and stories. Build in moments for participation, even if small. The more your audience feels part of the conversation, the more likely they are to remember what you’ve said.
The bottom line
A great presentation is more than strong content, it’s also about delivery. By avoiding these common habits, you’ll give your message the clarity and impact it deserves.