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How to create a McKinsey-style business presentation?


This article provides a detailed response to: How to create a McKinsey-style business presentation? For a comprehensive understanding of Presentation Delivery, we also include relevant case studies for further reading and links to Presentation Delivery best practice resources.

TLDR Mastering a McKinsey-style presentation involves structured thinking, clear communication, strategic data use, and compelling storytelling to drive executive decision-making and action.

Reading time: 5 minutes

Before we begin, let's review some important management concepts, as they related to this question.

What does Structured Thinking mean?
What does Hypothesis-Driven Approach mean?
What does Strategic Use of Data mean?
What does Effective Storytelling mean?


Creating a McKinsey-style presentation is a revered skill in the consulting world, embodying clarity, precision, and the power to persuade. This approach to presentation is not just about aesthetics; it's a strategic tool for problem-solving and decision-making. McKinsey & Company, a global management consulting firm, has set a gold standard for how effective business presentations should be crafted. Their methodology, deeply rooted in structured thinking and clear communication, is designed to drive action and facilitate executive decision-making. Understanding how to make a McKinsey style presentation is therefore crucial for any leader aiming to influence and inform at the highest levels of business.

The cornerstone of a McKinsey-style presentation is its framework. This framework is not merely a template; it's a strategic guide designed to structure information in a way that leads the audience toward a predefined objective. The framework starts with the Executive Summary or the 'So what?' that articulates the core message or recommendation. Following this, the Situation-Complication-Resolution (SCR) format is often employed to set the context, define the challenge, and propose a solution. This method ensures that the presentation is not just a data dump but a compelling narrative that guides the audience through a logical flow of information towards the intended conclusion.

Moreover, the use of a hypothesis-driven approach is central to the McKinsey method. Instead of starting with a data exploration, the presentation is structured around key hypotheses that are then tested and validated through analysis. This approach ensures that the presentation remains focused on the critical issues that matter most to the organization. It also facilitates a more interactive discussion with the audience, as each section of the presentation addresses a specific hypothesis or question that the audience may have, making the presentation not just informative but also engaging.

Visual simplicity and clarity are other hallmarks of a McKinsey-style presentation. Each slide serves a single purpose, avoiding clutter and focusing on one key message that is easy for the audience to grasp and remember. Data visualization techniques are employed judiciously, with a preference for simple, clean charts and graphs that communicate the essential insights without overwhelming the audience with complexity. The overall design is sleek and professional, with a consistent use of color, font, and layout throughout the presentation to reinforce the organization's brand and the seriousness of the message.

Strategic Use of Data and Insights

In the world of consulting, data is king. However, the strategic use of data is what separates a good presentation from a McKinsey-style masterpiece. It involves not just presenting data, but telling a story with it. This means selecting only the most impactful data points and insights that directly support the narrative and recommendations of the presentation. It's about making complex data accessible and actionable, translating it into clear insights that can drive decision-making at the highest levels of the organization.

Moreover, benchmarking against industry standards and best practices is a common feature in these presentations. This not only provides a context for the data but also helps in establishing credibility and urgency. For example, leveraging insights from authoritative sources such as Gartner or Forrester can provide a solid foundation for the strategic recommendations being made. It shows that the recommendations are not made in isolation but are informed by a deep understanding of the industry and market dynamics.

Another critical aspect is the forward-looking perspective. McKinsey-style presentations often include scenario planning and forecasts to help leaders understand potential future states and make informed decisions. This involves a careful analysis of trends, risks, and opportunities, presented in a way that is both compelling and easy to understand. The goal is to not just solve current problems but to prepare the organization for future challenges and opportunities.

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Effective Storytelling and Engagement

At its core, a McKinsey-style presentation is a storytelling exercise. It's about creating a narrative that resonates with the audience, making complex issues understandable and compelling. This involves a deep understanding of the audience's concerns, priorities, and decision-making processes. The presentation is tailored to speak directly to these, making it relevant and impactful. The use of real-world examples and case studies is common, providing tangible evidence of the concepts and strategies being proposed.

Engagement is another critical element. The best presentations are those that foster a dialogue, rather than a monologue. This means anticipating and addressing the audience's questions and concerns within the presentation itself. It also involves interactive elements, such as polls or workshops, to involve the audience in the problem-solving process. The aim is to leave the audience not just informed but also motivated and equipped to take action.

In conclusion, mastering how to make a McKinsey style presentation is about much more than learning a set of visual or structural guidelines. It's about adopting a strategic approach to communication that prioritizes clarity, relevance, and impact. By focusing on structured thinking, strategic use of data, and effective storytelling, leaders can create presentations that not only inform but also inspire action. This skill is invaluable in the fast-paced and complex world of business, where the ability to communicate effectively can be the difference between success and failure.

Best Practices in Presentation Delivery

Here are best practices relevant to Presentation Delivery from the Flevy Marketplace. View all our Presentation Delivery materials here.

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Explore all of our best practices in: Presentation Delivery

Presentation Delivery Case Studies

For a practical understanding of Presentation Delivery, take a look at these case studies.

Ecommerce Platform's Presentation Delivery Refinement

Scenario: The organization in question operates within the ecommerce industry, specializing in direct-to-consumer sales.

Read Full Case Study

Strategic Presentation Delivery for Agritech Firm in North America

Scenario: The organization specializes in developing innovative agricultural technologies and has recently expanded its operations, experiencing a surge in the need for effective communication with stakeholders, partners, and investors.

Read Full Case Study

AgriTech Firm's Market Expansion Strategy in Precision Agriculture

Scenario: An AgriTech firm specializing in precision agriculture technologies is facing challenges in effectively delivering presentations to potential investors and key stakeholders.

Read Full Case Study

Strategic Presentation Delivery for Live Events Industry

Scenario: The company, a prominent player in the live events sector, is facing significant challenges with its Presentation Delivery system.

Read Full Case Study

Explore all Flevy Management Case Studies

Related Questions

Here are our additional questions you may be interested in.

What strategies can leaders employ to maintain audience engagement during longer presentations?
Leaders can maintain audience engagement in longer presentations by employing Interactive Engagement Techniques, utilizing Advanced Technology, and structuring content effectively, supported by real-world examples and research. [Read full explanation]
In what ways can executives leverage AI and machine learning to enhance presentation delivery?
Executives can leverage AI and ML for Dynamic and Interactive Presentations, Enhanced Data Visualization and Analysis, and Improved Speaker Performance and Audience Engagement, transforming stakeholder communication. [Read full explanation]
How can executives ensure their presentations remain impactful in a virtual or hybrid work environment?
Executives can maintain impactful presentations in virtual or hybrid environments by leveraging Technology and Interactive Tools, adapting Content and Delivery for virtual audiences, and building a strong Virtual Presence and Engagement Strategy to foster engagement and drive results. [Read full explanation]
How can leaders effectively measure the impact and effectiveness of their presentations post-delivery?
Leaders can measure presentation impact through Immediate Feedback Collection, Engagement Metrics Analysis, and assessing Behavioral Changes, crucial for refining communication strategies and driving desired actions. [Read full explanation]
How to make PowerPoint presentations engaging?
Make PowerPoint presentations engaging by understanding your audience, using effective data visualization, storytelling, interactivity, and impactful design principles. [Read full explanation]
How to present problem and solution effectively in a PPT?
Effectively presenting problems and solutions in a PPT involves clear articulation, strategic context, data support, risk mitigation, and a strong call to action. [Read full explanation]

Source: Executive Q&A: Presentation Delivery Questions, Flevy Management Insights, 2024


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