Case study presentations at conferences are important and valuable opportunities to showcase real-world applications of theories, strategies, and innovations.

Whether you’re an industry expert, commercial event partner, seasoned researcher, or practitioner, delivering an extraordinary and engaging case study presentation requires some effort, time, and creativity.

I have witnessed some brilliant case studies during my time producing and running conferences, and I have also seen some not-so-great examples.

In this guide, we’ll start off by exploring the main pitfall to avoid which highlights the commonality seen in not-so-great case study presentations.

Following that, we’ll delve into the essential steps to guarantee that your case study presentation not only sidesteps this major pitfall, but also stands out against all the others!

THE NUMBER 1 PITFALL OF CASE STUDY PRESENTATIONS

The biggest, most common mistake people make when they have a case study slot at a conference is to deliver a sales pitch under the guise of a case study presentation.

I understand that it is tempting to shout about how brilliant your product or solution is in a room full of potential clients – but I am telling you, you are wasting your time.

If you decide to go down the sales-pitch route, then you risk diluting the educational value of your session.

Audiences attend conferences to acquire genuine insights and actionable takeaways, not to be on the receiving end of overt sales tactics.

A case study should aim to educate, inspire, and contribute to the collective learning experience that the event is facilitating.

I AM TELLING YOU a sales-centric approach not only alienates the audience, but it also undermines the credibility and authenticity of your presentation and everything related to it.

TRUST ME, you are FAR MORE LIKELY to generate leads at a conference by using your case study slot to prioritise substance, transparency, and educational value.

Focus on showcasing what unique information and takeaways YOU CAN GIVE to the audience rather than a sales-driven agenda that asks the audience to GIVE TO YOU.

If you want to get the most out of your conference experience, acquire hot business leads and potential new clients, AND feel like you have added value to the event and delivered an engaging presentation then please DO NOT deliver a sales pitch.

Check out this brilliant TEDx Talk on the 3 Magic Ingredients of Amazing Presentations.

N.B. If you ever want feedback ahead of a conference on whether your presentation is too pitchy then the best person to ask is your conference producer or the organiser as they will have a sound grasp on this and can sniff a sales pitch a mile off.

So now we know what not to do, let’s dive into the key steps to ensure you deliver a valuable and captivating case study presentation!

Choose the Right Topic and Examples

Ensure the subject you want to talk about aligns with the theme and objectives of the conference.

If it’s not on topic then you’ll risk confusing people as they try and work out how what you’re saying is relevant to why they’re there.

What are the best real-life examples to include that reflect innovation, challenges to overcome, and measurable outcomes?

A relevant and compelling case study filled with tangible examples and useful takeaways will set the stage for an engaging experience.

How To Structure your Presentation

It is important to formulate a well-organised structure that is easy for the audience to follow and will help you stay on track.

You could consider the following:

Introduction

Briefly introduce the context and significance of the case study – what’s your hook?

Background

Provide essential background information to set the scene – be creative and brief here.

Objectives

Clearly outline the goals and objectives of the case study and refer back to these throughout.

Methodology

Details of the methods used for analysis or implementation – keep it visual.

Results

Present key findings and outcomes – keep it visual.

Conclusion

Summarise the impact and lessons learned.

Interact with the Audience

Create opportunities for interaction. Pose through-provoking questions, encourage discussion, and draw the audience in.

Engaging your audience will enhance their understanding and make your presentation memorable.

Make Data Accessible

Include graphs, images, charts, videos etc to illustrate key points.

Visuals help to improve comprehension and keep it interesting.

Just make sure your visuals are clear, relevant, and directly supportive of your narrative.

Inform with Storytelling

Can you present your case study as a narrative?

Take your audience on a journey from the problem or challenge to the solution and outcomes.

Weave in a story that resonates emotionally and intellectually, it will make your presentation noteworthy and different.

You have a creative licence here – why not use it!

Talk About The Highs And The Lows

Be transparent about the challenges that you encountered, keep it real and not all about the wins.

Discuss the strategies that were implemented to overcome certain obstacles.

Demonstrating adaptability and resilience will add depth to your presentation.

Please Practise

As with any public speaking occasion, you need to rehearse your presentation multiple times.

Practice helps you refine your delivery, familiarise yourself with the timing, and identify areas for improvement before a live audience picks up on them!

Rehearsing will also boost your confidence and help to ensure a smooth and polished presentation.

Don’t Run Over Time

Please respect the allocated time for your presentation.

Be concise, focusing on the most critical aspects of your case study.

The audience and conference organisers get disgruntled if you run over time because doing so can impact other speakers’ sessions, valuable networking, lunch breaks, and/or cause people to be delayed leaving the event.

It also doesn’t look great on you and indicates a lack of preparation.

A well-timed presentation reflects professionalism and consideration for everyone else.

A well-paced presentation keeps your audience engaged and attentive.

Welcome Q&A

Allocate time for questions at the end of your presentation.

Be prepared to address queries and engage in discussions with your audience.

End on a High

Conclude your case study presentation with a powerful summary.

Reinforce key takeaways, emphasise the broader implications of your examples, and leave your audience with something to ponder outside of the conference venue walls!

I am confident that by following these steps (and avoiding the no.1 pitfall), you will be well equipped to deliver a compelling and captivating case study presentation at your next conference.

Remember, a well-crafted case study not only showcases your expertise but also contributes fresh perspectives and valuable evidence-based insights to the conference community!

For more support and examples of successful case studies then take a look at this fantastic resource.

Thank you for reading, I hope you have found this guide useful.

Tilly x

If you found this helpful, then check out these guides on delivering a keynote and being a brilliant panel speaker at conferences!