If you bungle the questions at the end of a presentation you are making, it may be judged by this bungle. The questions must be answered expertly, especially if you are endorsing a business.

1. Preparation – When composing the presentation you will give, write down what the most likely questions you will be questioned are and how you will answer them. If there is a question you will not want to answer at the present, figure out a response that will be satisfactory to the person asking the question.

2. Make it clear at the start – You may choose to take questions as you go or at the end of your presentation. Whatever you choose, make it clear at the start and don’t change your mind. I would suggest questions at the end in a small presentation; if you take questions as you go, then your timing will get knocked out. And always remember, an audience won’t forgive you for taking half an hour when you were only scheduled to speak for fifteen minutes.

3. End with a conclusion, not questions – When giving the presentation, about 5 to 10 minutes from the conclusion, question if there are any questions. This allows you an opportunity to continue talking if no one has any questions and avoids a stale silence.

4. Listen – When questioned a question, listen and look like your listening. It may be something you’ve heard a million times before. Treat the questioner with respect and don’t trivialize their point.

5. Say thank you to the person questioning you – This shows a sign of respect and is a breather for you to choose what your answer will be.

6. Restate the gist of the question – This is often beneficial for those who may have missed the question. When you answer they may not have any thought of what you are talking about. It is aggravating not to know what was questioned and this also allows you time to consider the response. In addition, it is a excellent control maneuver.

7. Direct your response to everyone – When answering the question direct your response to the audience, not just the questioner. This appears as if you are excluding everyone else especially if the questioner is up front and closer to you.

8. The simpler, the better – When answering a question, do not get too detailed. The relaxation that you feel should not make you go on and on. Often because someone was interested, you feel entitled to keep talking. DO NOT DO THIS.

9. Don’t bluff or bluster – If you don’t know the answer to a question, say so and find out. Suggest to the questioner that you’ll ‘phone them or come and see them with the answer. It can even be a excellent way to make further contact after the presentation.

There is the possibility of no questions being questioned. This can cause an uncomfortable silence. It may be that your presentation is sinking in and they need time to reflect of their questions. They also might be somewhat bashful about asking questions. Use your own question and say ” In case you are wondering…?” If this does not work, conclude your presentation.

The better you handle this type of situation, the more professional and businesslike you will look.

Looking to find the best tips on professional speaking, then visit www.publicspeakinghandbook.com to find the best advice on speaking in public for you.

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