As engineers, we excel at precision and technical expertise, but many of us struggle to communicate ideas effectively to non-technical audiences. I know I did! This challenge can hinder career growth, project success, and leadership opportunities. By adopting audience-centric approaches, using visual storytelling, and leveraging company support, we can enhance our communication skills and advance our careers. Ultimately, giving effective presentations is not just an asset—it’s a necessity for professional success.
Before achieving success, though, it’s important to identify the challenges. Here are a few of these challenges with some suggested solutions.
When I worked in the medical device industry, I had to present my work to management on a monthly basis. I often used technical terms that were second nature to me but unfamiliar to my audience. It wasn’t uncommon for me to receive questions after my presentations that I thought I had already answered. You would think I would have learned my lesson after the first presentation, but I didn’t. This disconnect is common among engineers who struggle to translate their knowledge into accessible language for decision-makers, colleagues, and clients.
Solution: Have Empathy for the Audience: Remember when I said I used technical jargon I assumed others understood? Newsflash: I didn’t always understand the jargon. I wasn’t always an engineer. I went to engineering school and took on technical roles to acquire the expertise I now have. The audience may not have done any of that, and yet I expected them to easily understand what took me years to learn.
When putting presentations together, engineers need to remember what it was like to be a non-technical person. What type of presentation could we have understood then? By tailoring our language based on the audience’s expertise level, we make our presentations more accessible and impactful.
Focusing on Data Without Context
When I presented to senior management, I frequently overwhelmed them with data. I assumed that presenting raw numbers and charts would be enough to convey my points. However, I learned that without proper context, data is meaningless to a non-technical audience. Any questions I received as a result of this barrage of information could have likely been avoided if I had explained why the data mattered in the first place.
Solution: Label Visuals Effectively: When using graphs, tables, or charts, labeling them clearly is crucial. Instead of generic titles like “Results,” use specific descriptions that highlight key takeaways, such as “Increased Efficiency by 20% Over Six Months.” This makes it easier for the audience to understand the significance of the data at a glance and reduces the likelihood of confusion or follow-up questions. Additionally, framing data within a larger story—explaining why it matters and how it affects decision-making—will help engage the audience and make the data more meaningful.
Being Good at Your Job Isn’t Good Enough
I once worked with a patent attorney who started her career as an engineer. She initially believed that being technically proficient was the key to promotions and raises. However, she quickly realized that those who advanced within the organization were not just skilled at their jobs but were also effective communicators—particularly in front of decision-makers. Those who could advocate for themselves, explain their work clearly, and make a compelling case for their contributions were the ones who received the opportunities.
Solution: Lunch-and-Learn Sessions: Companies can organize lunch-and-learn events where engineers present their work to colleagues from different departments. These informal sessions help technical professionals refine their ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms. They also allow HR, marketing, and other teams to gain a better understanding of the company’s technical projects, leading to better collaboration and better understanding of the technical teams’ role within the organization.
Ignoring Audience Engagement
I’ve attended numerous conferences where engineers deliver technical presentations, and I’ve noticed a recurring issue: audience disengagement. I often look around the room and see attendees checking their phones, staring into space, or even nodding off. The presenters likely have valuable insights to share, but they lose their audience by failing to engage them effectively. They don’t tell stories. They don’t get excited. They don’t build curiosity. They miss the opportunity to connect with listeners and hold their attention.
Solution: Internal Podcasts: A company-hosted podcast featuring technical professionals as guests can not only serve as an ongoing learning resource for the rest of the company, but can also provide a low-pressure way for technical professionals to practice their speaking skills. Because podcasts are conversational and narrative-driven, they can help engineers practice explaining complex ideas in a more engaging and accessible way. This skill translates directly into better storytelling during presentations. Podcasts also require speakers to distill their ideas into concise, digestible insights for listeners. This practice can help engineer guests avoid information overload and focus on what truly matters to their audience.
Technical expertise alone is not enough for career success. Engineers who master communication skills position themselves for leadership roles, project opportunities, and industry recognition. By learning to simplify complex concepts, engage audiences, and provide context for data, technical professionals can bridge the gap between expertise and effective communication. Companies that support these skills through training, internal platforms, and structured opportunities for practice will benefit from more cohesive teams, better project outcomes, and stronger industry positioning. Ultimately, improving communication is not just beneficial for individuals—it elevates entire organizations and industries.
