Handling questions after a presentation can be a challenging moment, leaving even the most experienced speakers feeling flustered. Admitting that you don’t have an answer can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips to help you navigate this crucial aspect of public speaking with confidence and grace.
- Embrace Honesty and Build Credibility: If you don’t know the answer to a question, don’t attempt to bluff your way through it. Honesty is your greatest ally in this situation. There are several good reasons for this approach:
- It builds credibility: Admitting when you don’t know something demonstrates your integrity and authenticity.
- It builds rapport with your audience: People appreciate transparency, and it helps foster a stronger connection with your listeners.
- Avoid public correction: If you guess and get it wrong, you risk being corrected publicly, which can undermine your credibility.
Additionally, if the question is something you can research and respond to later, promise to do so. Failing to follow through on this commitment could damage your credibility.
- Engage the Audience: When appropriate, involve your audience in the discussion. Instead of solely relying on your expertise, turn the question back to the audience. Ask for their ideas and opinions on the matter. Be sure to summarize the responses and check with the questioner to ensure their query has been adequately addressed. This not only eases the pressure on you but also enriches the discussion with diverse perspectives.
- Leverage Expertise for Technical Subjects: If your presentation revolves around a highly technical subject, and you aren’t an expert in the field, consider bringing along an expert as a resource. Even if they are not actively involved in the presentation, they can be invaluable during the Q&A session. Having an expert on hand can alleviate the pressure on you and ensure that technical questions receive accurate responses.
Question and Answer sessions are an integral part of any presentation, offering an opportunity to clarify points and dispel misconceptions. To handle questions effectively, prepare not only your main speech but also answers to anticipated questions. With careful preparation, you can confidently navigate the Q&A session. And if you encounter unexpected questions, remember the Trischel Tips: be honest, engage the audience when possible, and seek expert support when dealing with technical subjects. By following these guidelines, you’ll master the art of handling questions after your presentation with poise and professionalism.
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Trish Springsteen
Get Known Be Seen Specialist, Personal Branding Strategist
Australia’s Leading Expert in Empowering Introverts
Multi International Award Winning Mentor
Speaker, Coach
International Award Winning Best Selling Author
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I Believe in You until You Believe in Yourself
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