Persuasive presentations: Harnessing storytelling for impact

Many public-sector slide decks bury the story they need to tell. This one-day, practical workshop gives staff the skills to shape engaging stories and speak with confidence when briefing colleagues, ministers or external partners. Using tried-and-tested story frameworks, participants practise turning data and policy into concise messages that prompt action. Short tutor inputs alternate with hands-on work: each delegate has the opportunity to re-shape a live presentation, map a clear structure and share a synopsis for constructive feedback from peers and the trainer.

The day also covers techniques for holding attention in rooms, online or in hybrid spaces, plus voice and body-language tips that steady nerves and lift delivery. Ample time for questions ensures every delegate leaves with a refined deck, a step-by-step storytelling method and a practical toolkit for future presentations.

The workshop aligns with the Civil Service Behaviour ‘Communicating and Influencing’ and is suitable for anyone who must inform, persuade or inspire through clear spoken communication.

KEY TRAINING FEATURES: 

• Short teaching segments paired with individual tasks, small-group clinics and peer feedback, giving every participant time to apply new ideas in the session ​
• Story frameworks: Monomyth (Hero’s Journey), Problem–Solution–Benefit, “What Is / What Could Be” contrast, Pyramid structure and the Four Ps persuasion model 
• Techniques for defining the core message and shaping material to audience needs
• Slide-design principles that minimise cognitive overload and keep visuals in step with narrative, plus specific guidance for virtual, hybrid and face-to-face delivery ​
• Confidence tools: body language, vocal variety, pacing and practical methods for calming nerves in any setting ​
• Hands-on application: delegates re-work a live presentation (or start a new one) and road-test their structure for constructive feedback

WHO CAN ATTEND?

• Civil servants and wider public-sector staff from Administrative Officer to Senior Civil Service
• Policy, data, communications, project, digital, operational and analytical professionals
• Subject-matter experts who brief ministers, boards or external partners
• Both new presenters and experienced speakers seeking a practical refresh

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Participants will be able to:

• Craft compelling narrative presentations using proven structures
• Distil complex data/evidence into clear, memorable messages that prompt decisions
• Design slide decks that support rather than distract from the spoken word
• Adapt tone, content and visuals for face-to-face, virtual and hybrid settings
• Deliver with increased poise through effective voice, posture and pacing
• Give and receive constructive feedback to strengthen future presentations