10 Design Tips for Non-Designers

Introduction: Designing Presentations That Stick

Presentations are more than just slides—they’re opportunities to inform, persuade, and inspire. In his insightful Present to Succeed session, Tony Harmer, a celebrated design educator and LinkedIn Learning instructor, invites us to rethink how we approach presentation design. Drawing on decades of experience, Tony shares the mindset, strategies, and practical tools that transform presentations from forgettable to unforgettable.

Why Audience-Centric Design Matters (and Why Research is Key)

Tony’s journey—from working with global brands to teaching thousands of students—underscores a simple truth: the best presentations start with the audience. For Tony, research isn’t a box to check; it’s the foundation of every impactful talk. Why do some presentations engage while others fall flat? Tony believes it’s about understanding your audience’s needs, goals, and context. He urges presenters to dig deep, build personas, and craft every element with the audience at the center.

The Three Pillars of Powerful Presentation Design

Tony’s session revolves around three essential elements that elevate presentations from ordinary to outstanding. Here’s how he breaks them down:

1. Start with Research—Know Your Audience and Goals

   Every great presentation begins long before the first slide. Tony insists: before you open your software, invest time in research. Who is your audience? What do they care about? What are their goals—and yours? Tony demonstrates how clarity at this stage shapes every decision, from content to visuals. He shares practical tips for building audience personas, setting clear objectives, and aligning your message for maximum relevance.

2. Design with Intention—Color, Type, and Visuals

   For Tony, design is never an afterthought. He dives deep into the psychology of color, the power of simplicity in typography, and the impact of well-chosen images. Tony’s advice: use color purposefully, be mindful of cultural meanings, and avoid clutter. He advocates for big, bold type and minimal text, letting visuals reinforce your message. His practical demonstrations—like using the rule of thirds and full-screen images—show how thoughtful design choices can make your slides memorable and persuasive.

3. Structure for Clarity—Planning, Outlining, and Storyboarding

   Tony’s philosophy is rooted in structure. He encourages presenters to plan thoroughly, outline their content, and use storyboards to visualise the flow. His tips: start with sticky notes, sketch your ideas, and organise your narrative before building slides. Tony also shares how storyboarding, borrowed from the film industry, helps presenters map out interactions, animations, and key moments—ensuring a smooth, engaging experience for the audience.

Applying the Pillars: From Information Overload to Audience Impact

Tony’s approach isn’t just for designers—it’s for anyone who wants to make their message stick. Whether you’re pitching, teaching, or leading a meeting, the same principles apply: research your audience, design with intention, and structure for clarity. Even when time is tight, Tony reminds us: focus on what matters most to your audience, and let your design choices support—not distract from—your message.

Q&A: Handling Templates, Pushing for Creativity, and Continuous Growth

During the session’s lively Q&A, Tony addresses real-world challenges: working within rigid corporate templates, advocating for better design, and growing as a presenter. His advice: challenge the status quo with logic and evidence, show the value of clear, focused slides, and always seek feedback. Tony encourages presenters to see every talk as a chance to learn, experiment, and improve.

Final Thoughts: Present with Purpose, Design with Heart

Tony’s closing message is a call to action: presentations are a chance to serve your audience. By starting with research, designing with intention, and structuring for clarity, you can create presentations that not only inform, but inspire. If you want your talks to stand out, begin with your audience, make every design choice count, and always strive for clarity and connection.

Join the Conversation 

What’s your biggest challenge when designing presentations that connect? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!