The_Essential_Manager_s_Handbook

356 / TAKING CENTER STAGE

Running the Q&A

Making time for questions

Always allow time in every presentation

for questions and answers or some other

form of audience feedback. If your format

doesn’t allow for a session following

your presentation, consider addressing

questions as they come up.

Audiences often look forward to the

question and answer session more than

to the presentation itself. It is at this time

that their needs move to center stage—

they can engage with you directly and

test the strength with which you hold

your ideas. You should welcome the

Q&A because the questions will indicate

if you have been effective, and if you

have addressed what the audience really

wants to know. Consider the Q&A as

feedback—a way of strengthening your

presentation content and delivery.

The question and answer part of your presentation is a great

opportunity to drive home your key points and cement the bonds you

have established with your audience. Q&A sessions keep an audience

engaged and provide you with an invaluable insight into how they have

received and understood your communication.

MAINTAIN OPENNESS

Stay away from defensive

language—phrases such

as “You misunderstand

my point”—and seek to be

empathetic: “I can certainly

understand your objections.”

Tip

US_356-357_Running_Q_A.indd 356 30/05/16 3:06 pm