Should You Share Pictures and Videos Before a Big Presentation?

Complex pictures and videos slow reaction time. Share them in advance.

High-stakes business presentations require careful planning. A common question is whether to send pictures or videos to your audience before the meeting. The answer is yes, but it depends on your goals and how the visuals will be used.

When Sharing in Advance Helps

Pictures and videos are powerful tools for preparing your audience. Charts, schematics, and process diagrams are usually complex. Sending your visuals early gives senior leadership more time to understand the material. That extra time helps produce better questions and a deeper understanding.

Sharing in advance also builds trust and alignment. For example, previewing a video with a key decision maker before the big meeting can help them feel more comfortable. They will be more ready to support you in front of others.

When Sharing Early Can Backfire

Not all visuals should be released in advance. Some are meant to make an emotional impact in the meeting. A customer story, a dramatic before-and-after image, or a short video clip often works best when revealed live. Sending these in advance can spoil their effect.

There’s also the risk of misinterpretation. Without your voice and explanation, senior leaders may draw the wrong conclusions from an image or video.

In competitive or sensitive situations, early sharing can lead to leaks.

A Balanced Approach for Sharing before Big Presentations

The preferred approach is to share summaries, key data visuals, or background images in advance. Save personal or emotional visuals for the actual presentation. Consider adding notes or captions to guide interpretation for pictures or videos shared in advance. Remember to prepare your senior management for significant decisions while still preserving the emotional impact of your message for the live moment.

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