Manage your audience’s attention

Knowing how to give a good presentation is no small skill. A big part of that is learning how to manage your audience’s attention.

If your audience becomes bored or distracted, they won’t remember what you’ve said or why — they’ll just wonder why you’re wasting their valuable time. Try these tips to make your next presentation a smashing success: 1. Make a scene Everyone loves a good story, so tell stories and mention memorable moments throughout your presentation. Evoke emotions (such as surprise or suspense), make them laugh, or be provocative to grab their attention. Make the most of your time in the spotlight and give your audience a show to remember. 2. Use graphics Graphics and visuals are fantastic tools for managing an audience’s attention for two reasons. First, they can make dull or complex information more interesting or easier to understand. Second, graphics provide a focal point, to help keep your audience’s attention focused where it should be: on you. 3. Get to the point Stories are great to keep and manage an audience’s attention, but they should also be on point and related to the reason for your presentation. Your audience will be interested in that clever fishing story if it also somehow ties into why they’re there to see you. So, remember: make a scene but remember to get to the point, too. 4. Ask questions A tried-and-true method for managing your audience’s attention is to ask your audience questions. Get them involved to keep them engaged and actively listening throughout your presentation, making it more interesting and more valuable   We offer a terrific 2 day workshop called Think On Your Feet® that will give you dynamic structures to strategically position your message giving you the spit and polish your delivery deserves. It really is the art of impromtu speaking. Click here for more information. Next Public Workshop dates are 19th and 20th November 2013 Central London.   ]]>