How do seasoned Microsoft executives like CTO Mark Russinovich and VP Scott Hanselman prepare for their demos and presentations in front of thousands of people?

In May, I joined them both backstage at Microsoft Build 2024 where I got to see what their prep process was like and pick their brains for some quick tips!

A technical demo has to be real

• Walk through the actual process on screen to see how long each step actually takes.
• Don’t pretend or try to misrepresent the process or timing.
• Figure out what to do or talk about during the wait (e.g. while screens are loading).

Give yourself time

Take a few weeks to come up with the big idea and flow for your session:

• Understand who your audience is and what they’re interested in.
• Define what problem(s) you’re trying to solve for.
• Work with a Technical Advisor to flush out the technical details.

Then as you get closer to the presentation date:

• Figure out your story arc and how it hits your key points.
• Assess how each part should actually play out.
• Determine whether the sequence of events makes sense.
• Refine and practice your talk track (especially if you have co-presenters).

Good luck 🤞

Hope these quick tips and reminders from Scott & Mark are helpful as you prepare for your next demo.