Reflective Essay: Business Communication and Presentation Skills

This essay presents a student's reflection on a business communication assignment involving the creation and delivery of a PowerPoint presentation based on a complex business case. The reflection covers the challenges faced during the problem-solving process, the application of business theories and management frameworks, and the development of critical thinking skills. The student discusses the differences between theoretical and practical knowledge, the importance of teamwork, and the strategies employed to create an effective presentation, including research on presentation design and content. Furthermore, the essay addresses the student's personal experience during the final presentation, acknowledging nervousness and areas for improvement, such as enhancing confidence in public speaking. The student outlines a plan for future development through participation in group discussions and continuous practice. The exercise provided an opportunity to grow in several different aspects.

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Reflection
PowerPoint presentations are important in the business communication. They are important in
pitching an idea, as well as achieving business objectives. Designing a presentation is an
important part of the business management curriculum as it is essential in the professional
growth (Bishop, 2006). In the same essence, we were given an exercise to solve a business case
and present the solution in the form of the PowerPoint slides. Our tutor provided a complex
business case and we have to solve it with the help of various theoretical frameworks and
business theories.
The task was a tough exercise, which developed our critical thinking skills and ability to solve
wicked or challenging problems. We also learnt how to apply different business theories and
management frameworks on the complex business cases. During the exercise, we realized that
the theoretical knowledge and the practical knowledge are quite different things. Although, we
have learnt the business case theories previously, their application in the real-world business
cases is quite a challenging task. It not only requires the knowledge of the business theories, but
also critical thinking abilities. However, in the personal opinion, I realized that the critical
thinking abilities can be built by exercise or practice. I understood that with constant practice, an
individual can the application of these theories.
While solving the business case, I realized that it is important to have a gist of various theories so
that it can be analyzed, which theory will be applicable in the case. The tutorials in the university
have been very helpful in making me understand, the complex business theories. I analyzed
various sample cases and realized that a few business problems can be challenging, and there is
no simple way to solve them. The solution to a business problem often requires a trade-off and

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the decision can be complex (Koprowska, 2014). While completing this exercise, I realized that
the major responsibility of the business mangers is to take the right decision, which can attain the
best benefits for all the parties.
During the exercise of designing the PowerPoint presentation, I wanted to develop an impressive
presentation. I knew that the presentation is the important part of the business communication
and the present exercise will me in learning a lot. I watched YouTube ideas and read various
books regarding designing impressive slides. I took time to learn all the basics and apply them in
detail in the presentation. There were a lot of tutorials; however, the fundamental of the entire
tutorial were same. We were a team of 3 people; therefore, we divided the task of developing the
presentation. However, business case was solved together as a team.
We took the copy of the business case at our home, and each one of us solved the business case
with his or her, own perspective. Then we made a common meeting place and discussed each
other’s theories. The theory which was supported by every person was selected to solve the
business case. We realized that we have all identified the different business problems and
provide the unique solutions. It created conflicts among the group members. Coordinating with
each member is a major challenge for the group members. Then, we proceeded to the next step
of developing the presentation. I was the presenter of the PowerPoint presentation; therefore, I
conducted my research in the same manner. Another one of my team member planned and
outlines the presentation and another person supported in designing it. I checked the online
websites to realize that the presentation is crucial in the PowerPoint presentation. It is important
that the presenter comes in nice attire, and speaks confidently with the audience (Fearn-Banks,
2016). Effective and confident presentation is necessary for convincing the audience and making
an impression.

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I also learnt the content of the presentation is also important. I understood that the content of the
presentation should be well-researched and have references. Giving references increases the
credibility of the presentation. The presentation should flow in a logical and coherent manner. It
means that an ideal presentation should have a table of content, introduction, main body, and a
conclusion. The table of content should be able to discuss, what the presentation will cover,
whereas, the introduction will provide a brief idea of the presentation. The conclusion will try to
inflict the main purpose of the presentation. Therefore, we designed the presentation in a similar
manner.
I also learnt that the attire and the overall body language are also important in the presentation.
Therefore, I selected a formal suit for the occasion. I made sure that the dress is crisp, ironed and
presentable. Additionally, in order to improve the body language, I practiced giving presentation
with my team members. I learnt how to change tone and raise voice for thrusting a point. My
team members gave me valuable suggestions and I included them in my final presentation.
However, during the final presentation, I realized that I became nervous while giving the final
presentation. I became hesitant and forgot a few points in the haste. My nervousness, while
looking at a large audience was clearly showing on my face. I also learnt the point that an
individual needs to practice in a comprehensive manner; otherwise, there will be some blunder in
the final stage. As in my case, I did not practice with a large audience and it affected the final
stage. In my perspective, the marker will evaluate the presentation for the content and the visual
appearance. The marker will also analyze the presentation style of the presenter.
During the presentation exercise, I realized that lack confidence while speaking in front of large
crowd. I acknowledged my weakness and I am planning to eradicate it. My response to this

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assessment be improved by adopting a few methods. I learnt that by participating in group
discussions and debates, I can enhance my confidence (Guffey & Loewy, 2015). Henceforth, I
will participate in the extra-curricular activities in an enthusiastic manner to improve my
communication capabilities. I will also read books, watch videos and practice with my co-peers.
Overall, the presentation designing was a challenging exercise, which gave me opportunity to
grow is several different aspects.

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References
Bishop, S. (2006). Develop Your Assertiveness. Kogan Page Publishers.
Fearn-Banks, K. (2016). Crisis communications: A casebook approach. Routledge (page 9)
Guffey, M. E., & Loewy, D. (2015). Essentials of Business Communication. Cengage Learning.
Koprowska, J. (2014). Communication and interpersonal skills in social work. Learning Matters.