QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Though exciting and educational, questions are the main reason some speakers feel nervous and less confident. This is because they are often unexpected and risky because they may prove that you do not really know the field/subject.

Why questions are an opportunity for you

"Q & A" sessions

Someone once said that "problems are opportunities." As a speaker/presenter, you do not want to be surprised or even shaken/intimidated by questions from your audience at all. Infact, you want to be an answer to their (your audience/customer's) biggest challenge, fear or puzzle. Be the one to finally get it to their heads - better still, be the only one that solves that particular problem for them. They will never forget you - the answer to their nagging problems.

Rhetorical questions, where an answer is somewhat implied in the question, could be potentially intimidating to a speaker, but most of the times they can easily be taken kindly as suggestions/comments and acknowledged as such.

"Q and A" sessions need preparation too

Before your public speaking address, you need to find out as much as possible about the topic, your audience and what type of information are they interested in. What are they likely to know more about? Make a list of all the possible questions before the presentation. Answer and rehearse them. Prepare to be a memorable answer to their nagging problems.

What are their fears and concerns? Do they have a particular concern regarding your product/service or related products/services? Offer a solution; it doesn't even need to wait for "Q & A" time, you want them to get 'nodding' in agreement and satisfaction, so present it to them.

Prepare for all the possible questions and find answers

Q & A - an opportunity to communicate

Breathe to relax and cope better with questions

Please subscribe to our free newsletter - Straight-Talk!