Hi everyone! Welcome back to our Basic Pitching Essentials series. Today, we’ll discuss a topic that many people find daunting: answering questions from your audience after a presentation.
Answering questions is a crucial part of any presentation, as it demonstrates your knowledge of the subject matter and provides an opportunity to connect with your audience on a deeper level.
Why is answering questions important?
• Showcases expertise: Confidently answering questions proves your knowledge of the topic.
• Builds rapport: Addressing questions directly and clearly helps you connect with your audience.
• Clarifies misunderstandings: Answering questions can resolve any doubts or confusion your audience may have.
Tips for answering questions confidently:
1. Listen carefully: Before responding, ensure you fully understand the question. If you’re unsure, ask for clarification.
2. Pause before answering: Take a moment to gather your thoughts before responding.
3. Be direct: Answer the question directly and avoid going off on tangents.
4. Use simple language: Avoid jargon or technical terms that might confuse your audience.
5. Stay calm: Maintain a calm demeanor, even if faced with difficult or challenging questions.
6. Anticipate questions: Before your presentation, think about the potential questions you might be asked and prepare your answers.
7. It’s okay to say “I don’t know”: If you don’t know the answer, admit it and offer to find out the information later.
Example responses:
• When unsure: “That’s a great question. Let me look into that and get back to you.”
• When the question is complex: “That’s a very insightful question. To fully address it, let me break it down into two parts.”
• When the question is off-topic: “That’s a great question, but to stay focused on today’s topic of [topic], perhaps we could discuss that further after the presentation.”
In conclusion, effectively handling questions is a vital skill for any presenter. By practicing these techniques, you can build confidence, connect with your audience, and solidify your message.
Do you have any tips for answering questions effectively? Share them in the comments!
