questions to ask when making a presentation

160 Questions to Ask After a Presentation

Asking questions after a presentation is not just about seeking clarity on what was discussed. It’s a golden opportunity to delve deeper, engage with the speaker, and enhance your understanding of the subject matter. But knowing which questions to ask isn’t always straightforward.

In this piece, we’re about to break down the art of crafting impactful questions post-presentation that will not only benefit you but also add value to the entire audience’s experience.

Table of Contents

Questions to Ask After a Presentation for Feedback

Questions to ask after a presentation interview, questions to ask students after a presentation, questions to ask after a research presentation, questions to ask after a business presentation, questions to ask after a marketing presentation, questions to ask after a book presentation, reflection questions to ask after a presentation, frequently asked questions, final thoughts.

Can you summarize the key points of the presentation?
What aspect of the presentation did you find most engaging?
Were there any areas that were unclear or confusing? If so, what were they?
How would you rate the overall organization and flow of the presentation?
Did the visual aids (such as slides or charts) enhance your understanding of the topic? Why or why not?
Did the presenter maintain good eye contact and use body language effectively?
Was the presenter’s tone and pace suitable for the content and audience?
Were there any statistics or facts presented that stood out to you? Why?
Did the presenter address potential counter-arguments or opposing views adequately?
Were the objectives of the presentation clearly stated and met?
How well did the presenter handle questions or interruptions during the presentation?
Was there anything in the presentation that seemed unnecessary or redundant?
What would you suggest to improve the presentation for future audiences?
How did the presentation change or influence your thinking about the subject?
Did the presentation feel tailored to the audience’s knowledge and interest level?
Was there a clear and compelling call to action or concluding statement?
Did the presentation feel too short, too long, or just the right length?
What was your overall impression of the presenter’s credibility and expertise on the subject?
How would you rate the relevance and importance of the topic to the audience?
Can you identify any biases or assumptions in the presentation that may have influenced the message?
How did you determine what content to include in your presentation?
Can you explain the rationale behind the structure and flow of your presentation?
What challenges did you face while preparing this presentation, and how did you overcome them?
Were there any points in the presentation where you felt you could have elaborated more or less? Why?
How did you decide on the visual elements and design of your presentation?
Can you describe your intended audience and how you tailored the content to engage them?
How did you ensure that the information presented was accurate and up-to-date?
Were there any counter-arguments or opposing views on this topic that you considered including?
How would you adapt this presentation for a different audience or context?
How do you handle unexpected questions or interruptions during a presentation?
Can you give an example of how you’ve handled negative feedback on a presentation in the past?
How do you measure the success of a presentation? What metrics or feedback do you seek?
What techniques do you use to engage an audience that may not be familiar with the topic?
How do you balance the need to entertain and inform in a presentation?
How do you prioritize information when you have a limited time to present?
What strategies do you employ to ensure that your main points are memorable?
How do you deal with nerves or anxiety before or during a presentation?
Can you describe a situation where a presentation did not go as planned and how you handled it?
How do you keep up with the latest trends and best practices in presenting?
Is there anything you would change about this presentation if you were to do it again?
How did you feel about the presentation? Were you confident or nervous, and why?
What was the main message or goal of your presentation, and do you think you achieved it?
How did you decide on the structure of your presentation?
What research methods did you use to gather information for this presentation?
Were there any challenges you encountered while preparing or presenting, and how did you address them?
How did you ensure that your visual aids or multimedia elements supported your key points?
What part of the presentation are you most proud of, and why?
Were there any areas where you felt uncertain or that you would like to improve upon for next time?
How did you tailor your presentation to fit the knowledge level and interest of your audience?
What techniques did you use to engage the audience, and how do you think they worked?
How did you practice your presentation, and what adjustments did you make as a result?
Did you feel the time allotted for your presentation was sufficient? Why or why not?
How did you decide what to emphasize or de-emphasize in your presentation?
What feedback did you receive from peers during the preparation, and how did you incorporate it?
Did you have a clear conclusion or call to action, and why did you choose it?
How do you think your presentation style affects the way your audience receives your message?
What would you do differently if you were to present this topic again?
Can you reflect on a piece of feedback or a question from the audience that made you think?
How has this presentation helped you better understand the subject matter?
How will the skills and insights gained from this presentation experience benefit you in the future?
Can you elaborate on the research question and what prompted you to investigate this topic?
How did you choose the methodology for this research, and why was it the most suitable approach?
Can you discuss any limitations or constraints within your research design and how they might have affected the results?
How do your findings align or contrast with existing literature or previous research in this field?
Were there any unexpected findings, and if so, how do you interpret them?
How did you ensure the reliability and validity of your data?
Can you discuss the ethical considerations involved in your research, and how were they addressed?
What are the practical implications of your findings for practitioners in the field?
How might your research contribute to theoretical development within this discipline?
What recommendations do you have for future research based on your findings?
Can you provide more details about your sample size and selection process?
How did you handle missing or inconsistent data within your research?
Were there any biases that could have influenced the results, and how were they mitigated?
How do you plan to disseminate these findings within the academic community or to the broader public?
Can you discuss the significance of your research within a broader social, economic, or cultural context?
What feedback have you received from peers or advisors on this research, and how has it shaped your work?
How does your research fit into your long-term academic or professional goals?
Were there any particular challenges in conveying complex research findings to a general audience, and how did you address them?
How does this research presentation fit into the larger project or research agenda, if applicable?
Can you provide more insight into the interdisciplinary aspects of your research, if any, and how they contributed to the depth or breadth of understanding?
Can you elaborate on the primary objectives and expected outcomes of this business initiative?
How does this strategy align with the overall mission and vision of the company?
What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) that you’ll be monitoring to gauge success?
Can you discuss the risks associated with this plan, and how have you prepared to mitigate them?
How does this proposal fit within the current market landscape, and what sets it apart from competitors?
What are the potential financial implications of this plan, including both investments and projected returns?
Can you provide more detail about the timeline and milestones for implementation?
What internal and external resources will be required, and how have you planned to allocate them?
How did you gather and analyze the data presented, and how does it support your conclusions?
How does this proposal take into account regulatory compliance and ethical considerations?
What are the potential challenges or roadblocks, and what strategies are in place to overcome them?
Can you explain how this initiative aligns with or affects other ongoing projects or departments within the company?
How will this plan impact stakeholders, and how have their interests and concerns been addressed?
What contingency plans are in place if the initial strategy doesn’t achieve the desired results?
How will success be communicated and celebrated within the organization?
What opportunities for collaboration or partnership with other organizations exist within this plan?
How does this proposal consider sustainability and the potential long-term impact on the environment and community?
How have you incorporated feedback or lessons learned from previous similar initiatives?
What are the key takeaways you’d like us to remember from this presentation?
How can we get involved or support this initiative moving forward?
Can you elaborate on the target audience for this marketing campaign, and how were they identified?
What are the main objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs) for this campaign?
How does this marketing strategy align with the overall brand values and business goals?
What channels will be utilized, and why were they chosen for this particular campaign?
Can you discuss the expected return on investment (ROI) and how it will be measured?
What are the creative concepts driving this campaign, and how do they resonate with the target audience?
How does this campaign consider the competitive landscape, and what sets it apart from competitors’ efforts?
What are the potential risks or challenges with this marketing plan, and how will they be mitigated?
Can you provide more details about the budget allocation across different marketing channels and activities?
How have customer insights or feedback been integrated into the campaign strategy?
What contingency plans are in place if certain elements of the campaign do not perform as expected?
How will this marketing initiative be integrated with other departments or business functions, such as sales or customer service?
How does this campaign consider sustainability or social responsibility, if at all?
What tools or technologies will be used to execute and monitor this campaign?
Can you discuss the timeline and key milestones for the launch and ongoing management of the campaign?
How will the success of this campaign be communicated both internally and externally?
How does this marketing strategy consider potential regulatory or compliance issues?
How will the campaign be adapted or customized for different markets or segments, if applicable?
What lessons from previous campaigns were applied in the development of this strategy?
How can we, as a team or as individuals, support the successful implementation of this marketing plan?
What inspired the main theme or concept of the book?
Can you describe the intended audience for this book, and why they would find it appealing?
How did the characters’ development contribute to the overall message of the book?
What research was conducted (if any) to ensure the authenticity of the setting, characters, or events?
Were there any challenges or ethical considerations in writing or presenting this book?
How does this book fit into the current literary landscape or genre? What sets it apart?
What do you believe readers will find most engaging or thought-provoking about this book?
Can you discuss any symbolic elements or literary devices used in the book and their significance?
How does the book’s structure (e.g., point of view, chronological order) contribute to its impact?
What were the emotional highs and lows during the writing or reading of this book, and how do they reflect in the story?
How does the book address or reflect contemporary social, cultural, or political issues?
Were there any parts of the book that were particularly difficult or rewarding to write or read?
How does this book relate to the author’s previous works or the evolution of their writing style?
What feedback or responses have been received from readers, critics, or peers, and how have they influenced the presentation?
What are the main takeaways or lessons you hope readers will gain from this book?
How might this book be used in educational settings, and what age group or courses would it be suitable for?
Can you discuss the process of editing, publishing, or marketing the book, if applicable?
How does the book’s cover art or design reflect its content or attract its target readership?
Are there plans for a sequel, adaptation, or related works in the future?
How can readers stay engaged with the author or the book’s community, such as through social media, book clubs, or events?
How do you feel the presentation went overall, and why?
What part of the presentation are you most proud of, and what made it successful?
Were there any moments where you felt challenged or uncertain? How did you handle those moments?
How did you perceive the audience’s engagement and reaction? Were there any surprises?
What feedback have you received from others, and how does it align with your self-assessment?
Were there any technical difficulties or unexpected obstacles, and how were they addressed?
How well did you manage your time during the presentation? Were there areas that needed more or less focus?
How did you feel before the presentation, and how did those feelings change throughout?
What strategies did you use to connect with the audience, and how effective were they?
Were there any points that you felt were misunderstood or could have been communicated more clearly?
How did the preparation process contribute to the overall success or challenges of the presentation?
What did you learn about yourself as a communicator or presenter through this experience?
Were there any ethical considerations in the content or delivery of the presentation, and how were they handled?
How does this presentation align with your long-term goals or professional development?
How would you approach this presentation differently if you had to do it again?
How has this presentation affected your confidence or skills in public speaking or presenting?
What resources or support would have enhanced your preparation or performance?
How will you apply what you’ve learned from this presentation to future projects or presentations?
How did your understanding of the topic change or deepen through the process of preparing and presenting?
What steps will you take to continue improving or building on the skills demonstrated in this presentation?

What if I disagree with a point made during the presentation?

It’s important to frame disagreement in a constructive and respectful way. You might say, “ I found your point on X intriguing. From a different perspective, could Y also be considered…? ” This opens up a dialogue without dismissing the presenter’s viewpoint.

How can I formulate my questions to encourage a more detailed answer?

Use open-ended questions that start with “ how ,” “ why, ” or “ could you explain… ” as these require more than a yes or no answer and encourage the presenter to provide depth. For example, “ Could you explain the process behind your research findings in more detail? “

By asking insightful questions, you’re not only cementing your understanding of the material presented but also opening doors to further knowledge and collaboration. Remember, the quality of your questions reflects the depth of your engagement and willingness to learn.

So, the next time you find yourself in the audience, seize the opportunity to ask meaningful questions and watch as simple presentations transform into dialogues that inspire and illuminate.

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Bea Mariel Saulo

Bea is an editor and writer with a passion for literature and self-improvement. Her ability to combine these two interests enables her to write informative and thought-provoking articles that positively impact society. She enjoys reading stories and listening to music in her spare time.

350 Top Q&A Questions to Expect for Any Presentations (Save Them Now!)

Zhun Yee Chew

350 Top Q&A Questions to Expect for Any Presentations (Save Them Now!)

Preparing the slide content is nothing compared to dealing with daunting questions during the Q&A session of a presentation. Sometimes, if we are not lucky, we will face a tough crowd with even tougher questions that may leave us feeling challenged on the spot. And none of us likes the awkward moment of not being able to provide a satisfactory response to the audience.

Answering Q&A questions is a skill that everyone can master with the right resources and the right amount of preparation. You’ve searched, and we have them for you.

In this article, you will find more than 300 Q&A questions that are most commonly asked in a wide range of presentation occasions. Save them so you can be ready for even the most unexpected questions in your upcoming presentations!

What Are Q&A Questions?

Q&A questions, short for “Questions and Answers”, are inquiries posed by an audience or participants to the speaker or presenter during the Q&A session of a presentation . This Q&A segment typically follows a presentation, a talk or a lecture, providing the opportunities for the audience to seek clarification, ask additional information, or understand the speaker’s perspectives.

The whole point of Q&A sessions is to make the presentation more interactive and foster engagement . It’s a chance for the audience to pick the speaker’s brain and get a better understanding of the subject.

What Are the Different Types of Presentations?

Business Presentations:

Sales pitches
Quarterly or annual reports
Performance reviews
Project proposals/updates
All-hands presentations

Academic Presentations:

Lesson presentations
Conference/research presentations
Classroom quiz games

Training Sessions:

Employee training
Onboarding sessions
Skills development workshops

Public Speaking:

Motivational speeches
Commencement addresses

Informative Presentations:

How-to presentations
Demonstrations
Informational sessions

Social Events:

Celebration speeches
Team-building activities
PowerPoint nights
Presentation games

Technology Presentations:

Software launches
Product launches

Crisis Management:

Crisis communication
Emergency response briefings
Contingency plans

Virtual Presentations:

Online conferences

Different presentations involve different audience types, and the nature of questions posed can vary significantly based on presentation formats and occasions. However, the core of a successful and engaging presentation remains constant – ensuring interactivity in a presentation and transforming it into a two-way street through Q&A questions and adding interactive elements or using interactive tools in your presentations.

Academic Presentation Q&A Questions

Q&a questions for lecture presentations.

Can you provide more examples for the concept/theory you just explained?
Are there any common misconceptions about this topic that we should be aware of?
What are the main differences between this and [related topic]?
Can you explain the steps involved in [specific process] in more detail?
What are the current research trends or developments in this field?
How does this concept connect to what we learned in the previous lesson?
Are there any alternative approaches to solve the problems here?
Can you recommend additional resources or readings?
Can you provide some tips for studying this material effectively?
Are there any real-world examples where this concept has been successfully applied?
What are the most common mistakes students make when working on assignments for this topic?
Can you explain the significance of this concept in the context of future careers?
What are the ethical considerations associated with the topics we are discussing?
Are there any current debates or controversies related to this topic?
How does this topic connect with interdisciplinary subjects or other courses?
Can you share examples of how this concept might be used in different industries or professions?
Can you summarize the key takeaways of today’s presentation?
Can you discuss any historical or cultural context that influences this topic?
How might this information be relevant to current events or societal issues?

Q&A Questions for Academic Conference Presentations

How did you decide on the research question or topic for your study?
How did you select your sample or participants, and how representative is it of the broader population?
Can you explain the methodology you used in your research and why you chose that approach?
What are the main findings or key results of your study?
How do your findings contribute to the existing body of knowledge in your field?
Can you discuss any limitations or challenges you encountered during your research?
What implications do your findings have for practitioners in the field?
Can you elaborate on the theoretical framework that guided your study?
What ethical considerations did you address in your research, and how were they managed?
How did you validate the reliability and validity of your research instruments or methods?
How did you address potential biases or confounding variables in your research?
How do your findings compare to previous research on the same or similar topics?
Can you discuss any unexpected or surprising results that you discovered during your study?
How did you handle data analysis, and what statistical methods were employed in your study?
What alternative explanations or interpretations of your data did you consider?
How does your research contribute to addressing specific gaps in current knowledge?
How did you control for potential confounding variables in your research design?
What recommendations do you have for policymakers based on your research findings?
How does your study relate to other recent or ongoing research in the same area?
Are your findings generalizable to different populations or settings?
How did you ensure the rigor of your data analysis and interpretation?
What role did collaboration play in your research, and how did you handle disagreements within the research team?
Can you share any unexpected challenges you faced during the research process?
How might your findings be applied in a practical context, such as in industry or education?
How did you establish the validity of your conclusions in light of potential bias or subjectivity?
What potential areas for future research did your study uncover?
Can you discuss the relevance of your research to current global or societal issues?
How did you handle any limitations in available resources or funding for your research?
What key takeaway message or lesson would you like the audience to remember from your presentation?

Q&A Questions for Student Presentations

Can you elaborate on the research process you used to gather information for your presentation?
Can you discuss the process of selecting and organizing the visual elements in your presentation, such as charts or graphs?
How did you decide on the topic or key elements to include in your presentation?
What challenges did you encounter while preparing for your presentation, and how did you overcome them?
What did you learn about the topic that surprised you during your research?
Can you explain the significance of your topic or its relevance to the course content?
Can you discuss any alternative perspectives or counter-arguments related to your topic that you considered?
What sources did you consult to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented?
Can you explain the connection between your topic and current events or real-world applications?
Can you share any specific examples or case studies that support the points you made in your presentation?
Can you elaborate on any implications or applications of your findings beyond the scope of your presentation?
Can you discuss any ethical considerations related to your topic that you addressed in your presentation?
How might your presentation contribute to the understanding of the broader course themes or objectives?
What aspects of the presentation are you most proud of, and what would you do differently next time?

Q&A Questions for Project-Based Lessons

What is the main goal or objective of this project, and how will our work contribute to it?
Can you provide more details about the criteria for success in this project?
How will our progress be assessed, and what are the key milestones or deadlines?
Can you clarify the roles and responsibilities of each team member in the project?
Are there specific resources or materials that we should use or reference for this project?
Can you provide examples of successful projects from previous classes or students?
Are there specific presentation or communication requirements for showcasing our project?
What opportunities for feedback and revision will be available throughout the project timeline?

Business Presentation Q&A Questions

Q&a questions for sales pitches.

What makes your product or service different from competitors in the market?
Can you provide some specific examples of companies or clients who have successfully used your product/service?
How does your product/service address specific pain points or challenges that customers commonly face?
Can you share some success stories or case studies related to your product/service?
How does your product/service integrate with existing tools or systems our company uses?
What kind of support or training is provided to customers after they purchase your product/service?
Can you explain the implementation process and how quickly we can expect to see results?
Are there any customization options available to tailor the product/service to our specific needs?
What kind of ongoing maintenance or updates does your product/service require?
How do you ensure the security and privacy of our data when using your product/service?
Are there any limitations or restrictions we should be aware of when using your product/service?
How often do you release updates or new features to your product/service?
Can you explain the scalability of your solution and how it can grow with our business?
What is your company’s roadmap for future developments or enhancements to the product/service?
What is the typical return on investment (ROI) that your customers experience after implementing your product/service?
How do you handle issues or challenges that may arise post-purchase?

Q&A Questions for Work Presentations

How does your proposal align with our company’s overall goals or strategic objectives?
What potential challenges do you foresee in implementing this plan, and how do you plan to address them?
Can you explain the specific roles and responsibilities of each team member involved in this project?
What kind of timeline are you envisioning for the different phases of this project?
Have you considered alternative approaches to achieve the same goals, and if so, what are they?
What resources, budget, and manpower will be required to execute this plan successfully?
How do you plan to measure the success or effectiveness of this project?
Are there any potential risks associated with your proposal, and what mitigation strategies do you have in place?
Can you provide examples of similar projects that have been successful in the past, either within our company or in other organizations?
How will you keep stakeholders informed and engaged throughout the project lifecycle?
What kind of collaboration and communication tools do you plan to use to keep the team connected?
Are there any dependencies or external factors that could impact the timeline or success of this project?
Can you explain how this project aligns with current industry trends or best practices?
What are the potential roadblocks or obstacles you anticipate, and how do you plan to overcome them?

Q&A Questions for Performance Review Presentations

Can you highlight specific projects or tasks where you feel you excelled?
How have you demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to take initiative?
Have there been any instances of conflict or difficult situations, and how did you handle them?
What accomplishments are you most proud of since our last performance review?
Where do you think you could have performed better, and what challenges did you face?
How well do you think your current responsibilities align with your career goals?
What new skills or responsibilities would you like to take on in the next year?
How have you found the feedback and communication within the team or organization?
How well do you feel you have contributed to team projects and collaborations?
Are there ways we can enhance teamwork and collaboration within the team?
Is there anything we can do to support you better in your role?
What additional resources or training do you think would benefit you in your role?
What motivates you in your work, and how can we ensure your continued motivation?
What steps can we take to help you achieve your long-term career goals?

Q&A Questions for Annual/Quarterly Report Presentations

Annual or quarterly report Q&A questions

How did specific projects or initiatives contribute to the overall success or challenges outlined in the report?
What challenges or obstacles did the team face during the reporting period, and how were they addressed?
Are there any unexpected or significant changes in the industry landscape that may affect future performance?
What steps were taken to mitigate risks and uncertainties identified in the previous reports?
Can you discuss the budgetary implications of the results presented in the report?
How did the team adapt to changes in customer preferences or demands during this reporting period?
How do the results align with the long-term strategic objectives of the organization?
Can you discuss any feedback or concerns received from clients, customers, or stakeholders mentioned in the report?
How did internal collaborations or cross-functional teamwork contribute to the outcomes presented?
What initiatives or projects are planned for the upcoming quarter or year in response to the findings in the report?
Can you elaborate on the return on investment (ROI) for specific marketing or promotional activities mentioned in the report?
How do the current results compare to benchmarks or industry standards for similar organizations?
Can you discuss any changes or improvements in operational processes that were implemented during the reporting period?
Can you provide insights into any potential areas for improvement or focus in the coming reporting period based on the data presented?

Q&A Questions for All-Hands Presentations

What are the key priorities and goals for the team in the upcoming quarter/year?
Can you provide more details about the recent changes in team structure or leadership?
How will recent industry trends or developments impact our team’s strategies moving forward?
Can you discuss the reasoning behind recent policy changes or updates within the team?
How will the team address challenges identified in recent performance reports or feedback?
Can you provide insights into the budget allocation and resource planning for the team?
How will the team adapt to changes in technology or tools that may affect our workflow?
What professional development opportunities will be available to team members in the coming months?
Can you share updates on recent achievements or milestones reached by the team?
Can you discuss the team’s approach to fostering diversity and inclusion within the workplace?
What strategies will be implemented to maintain team morale and motivation?
Can you elaborate on the team’s strategy for managing workloads and preventing burnout?
How will the team address any challenges related to communication?
What steps will be taken to recognize and celebrate individual and team achievements in the future?

Public Speaking Q&A Questions

Q&a questions for motivational presentations.

How did your background or experiences shape your perspective on the topic you discussed?
How can individuals or communities apply the ideas you shared in their own lives or work?
What impact do you hope your work will have on the future of [your topic]?
How has your perspective on [your topic] evolved throughout your journey, and what lessons have you learned?
How do you suggest we, as individuals, can contribute to or support the goals you outlined in your presentation?
What advice do you have for someone who wants to get involved in or pursue a similar field or project?
What are the common misconceptions or misunderstandings about [your topic] that you’d like to address?
How can the audience stay informed or engaged with ongoing developments in your field or topic?
Can you share personal experiences where you overcame significant obstacles and found motivation in [an area]?
What advice do you have for dealing with [a personal issue]?
How do you handle setbacks and failures in [an area]?
What daily habits or routines do you recommend for sustaining long-term motivation?
How can individuals at various career stages benefit from the insights you shared?
Can you share examples of successful individuals who have been a source of inspiration for you?

Informative Presentation Q&A Questions

Q&a questions for youtube or online webinar presentations.

How can I access the recording of this webinar for future reference?
Can you recommend any additional resources for further learning on this topic?
How does this information apply to different industries or professions?
How do you suggest we adapt these concepts to our specific organizational context?
How can we stay updated on new developments or research in this field?
Can you suggest strategies for overcoming resistance to change when implementing these ideas?
What role does ongoing professional development play in mastering the skills you discussed?
How can individuals without a background in this field apply the principles you discussed?
Can you explain the potential challenges or common mistakes people might encounter when trying this on their own?
How do you foresee the future trends or developments affecting the subject of this webinar?
Can you recommend specific tools or software that would enhance our implementation of these strategies?
What are some key indicators of success when implementing the strategies you discussed?
Can you discuss any industry standards or benchmarks related to the topics covered in this webinar?
What would be the first step you recommend for someone looking to implement these ideas in their organization?

Q&A Questions for Demonstration Presentations

Demonstration presentation Q&A questions

Can you clarify the purpose or goal of the demonstration?
What specific steps are involved in the process you just demonstrated?
Are there alternative methods or tools that can be used for this demonstration?
How long does it typically take to master this skill or process demonstrated?
Are there any safety precautions that should be considered?
Can you provide tips for troubleshooting or overcoming obstacles in the demonstrated activity?
How does this demonstration apply to real-world scenarios or practical situations?
Are there variations or advanced techniques related to this demonstration that you didn’t cover?
Can you share examples of successful applications or projects that used the demonstrated technique?
How does this demonstration align with current trends or innovations in the field?
What feedback or suggestions do you have for individuals attempting the demonstrated task for the first time?
Can you discuss any modifications or adaptations that may be necessary for different skill levels or abilities?

Training Presentation Q&A Questions

Q&a questions for training workshops.

Can you provide more examples or practice exercises to reinforce the concepts you just covered?
Are there any additional resources or recommended readings for further learning on this topic?
Can you explain the specific steps or strategies for applying what we’ve learned in a real-world context?
How often is this training updated to reflect changes in industry standards or best practices?
How can we track our progress and measure the effectiveness of this training?
Are there opportunities for practical application or hands-on exercises to reinforce the learning?
Can you discuss any potential challenges or common difficulties participants might encounter during the training?
Can you provide insights into how this training aligns with current trends or innovations in the industry?
How will successful completion of this training impact our professional development or career advancement?
What kind of ongoing support or resources will be available to participants after completing the training?
Can you explain the relevance of each module or section of the training to our specific roles or responsibilities?
Can you discuss any case studies or success stories related to individuals who have completed this training?
Can you outline the specific skills or competencies participants are expected to gain by the end of the training?

Creative Presentation Q&A Questions

Q&a questions for brainstorming presentations.

Brainstorming Presentation Q&A questions

How did you arrive at the ideas presented during the brainstorming session?
Can you provide more context on the criteria used to evaluate and prioritize the proposed ideas?
Are there specific goals or objectives that the brainstormed ideas aim to achieve?
How do the ideas generated align with the overall vision or mission of the team or organization?
Can you discuss any potential challenges or constraints that may impact the implementation of these ideas?
What steps will be taken to further develop and refine the selected ideas from the brainstorming session?
How will the team decide which ideas to prioritize or move forward with?
What role do you see each team member playing in the implementation or development of these ideas?
What steps will be taken to test or prototype the most promising ideas before full implementation?
Are there any potential synergies or connections between the different ideas presented?
Can you discuss the anticipated impact or outcomes of implementing these ideas on the team’s objectives?

Q&A Questions for Creative Work Showcase Presentations

What inspired your creative concept or idea?
Can you discuss your creative process and how you generated or developed your ideas?
How did you overcome creative blocks or challenges during the project?
Can you share any unexpected twists or turns that occurred during the creative process?
What influenced your choice of colors, themes, or visual elements in your presentation?
Can you discuss any alternative concepts or ideas that you considered before finalizing your creative work?
How did you decide on the overall tone or mood of your creative piece?
Can you discuss any specific techniques or tools you used to bring your creative vision to life?
How do you balance originality with meeting the expectations or objectives of the project?
Can you elaborate on the symbolism or deeper meaning behind certain elements in your creative work?
How did you ensure your creative work aligns with the intended message or purpose of the project?
Can you share any unexpected challenges you encountered while executing your creative ideas?
What advice do you have for others looking to enhance their creativity or embark on similar projects?
Can you discuss any future plans or developments related to your creative work?

Q&A Questions for Portfolio Presentations

How did you curate or select the pieces included in your portfolio?
Can you discuss the overarching themes or concepts that tie your portfolio together?
What criteria did you use to determine which projects or works to include in your portfolio?
Can you provide insights into your creative process for one of the featured projects?
How do you believe your portfolio reflects your growth or evolution as a professional or artist?
Can you discuss any challenges you encountered while working on specific projects in your portfolio?
What inspired the overall design and layout of your portfolio presentation?
Can you share any feedback or critiques you received during the creation of your portfolio?
How do you handle showcasing both personal and professional work in your portfolio?
How do you stay updated on current trends or techniques in your industry, and how does this influence your portfolio?
Can you elaborate on any technologies or tools you used to create or present your portfolio?
How do you handle showcasing a diverse range of skills or talents in your portfolio?
How do you balance consistency with variety in the presentation of your portfolio pieces?
Can you provide insights into the decision-making process behind the visual and aesthetic choices in your portfolio?

Subject-Based Presentation Q&A Questions

Q&a questions for history presentations.

Why is it important for us to study this particular historical period or event?
Can you provide more context on the social and cultural aspects of the time you discussed?
Are there any alternative perspectives or interpretations of the historical event you presented?
How did political or economic factors contribute to the events you covered in your presentation?
Can you discuss the impact of this historical period on contemporary society or global affairs?
How do historians generally view or interpret the significance of the events you discussed?
Can you elaborate on any controversies related to the historical topic you presented?
Can you discuss any parallels or connections between the historical events you covered and current events?
Can you elaborate on any lesser-known or overlooked aspects of the historical topic?
What were the main causes and consequences of the events discussed in this lesson?
How did global events or other regions influence the events in this specific historical context?
Can you share more details about the key figures or individuals involved in the historical events?
Can you discuss any social movements or cultural shifts that occurred during this time?
Were there any controversies or debates among historians regarding the interpretation of these events?
What primary sources or historical documents can we explore to gain a deeper understanding of this time?
What lessons or insights can we draw from the mistakes or successes of the past?

Q&A Questions for Geography Presentations

Can you explain the significance of the geographical features discussed in this lesson?
What are the cultural or societal aspects that make this geographic area unique?
Can you discuss the environmental challenges or changes occurring in the region you shared?
Are there any connections between the geography of a region and its cultural practices or traditions?
How has human activity impacted the natural landscapes and ecosystems in the region?
Can you provide insights into the economic factors shaping the geography of the area?
How do political boundaries or geopolitical factors influence the geography of the region?
Can you discuss any current or historical conflicts related to the geography you presented?
Can you share examples of how globalization has impacted the geography you discussed?
How does the geography of the area influence migration patterns and population distribution?
Can you discuss any challenges or opportunities related to urbanization in the region?
Can you provide examples of how transportation infrastructure shapes the geography of the region?
How do the geographical features discussed impact the local economy and lifestyle?
Can you discuss the role of sustainable development in shaping the geography of the region?
How does the geography of a region impact the availability and distribution of resources?

Q&A Questions for Science Presentations

How does this scientific theory or principle apply to real-world situations?
Can you provide examples of experiments or demonstrations that illustrate the principles being taught?
How do current advancements or research in technology influence our understanding of this science?
Can you provide examples of how this scientific concept has been applied in various industries?
Can you share insights into any ongoing or future research related to the subject of the lecture?
Can you elaborate on any potential interdisciplinary connections between this science and other fields?
How do you see the future developments or advancements shaping the field of science you discussed?
Can you discuss any recent advancements or breakthroughs in the field related to your presentation?
What experiments or studies have been conducted to support the information presented in your topic?
Are there any unanswered questions or areas of uncertainty in the scientific understanding of this topic?
Can you discuss the importance of peer review in the scientific process?

Q&A Questions for Social Science Presentations

Can you provide some background information on the topic?
Can you explain the significance of any statistical analyses or data presented in this studies?
How might cultural or societal factors influence the interpretation of the findings?
Are there any primary sources or case studies used in the lesson to illustrate these social science concepts?
What are the alternative opinions or perspectives that one should consider for this topic?
How can we critically evaluate bias in the research?
What are the roles of globalization or international perspectives in this topic?
Why is [a perspective/opinion] the case?
What are the potential objections for [a perspective/opinion]?
How does the topic of this lesson relate to broader social issues or current events?
Are there any conflicting theories or perspectives within the field related to this lesson’s content?
Can you explain the practical implications of the theories or concepts covered in this lesson?
How do the concepts covered in this lesson contribute to a deeper understanding of human behavior or society?
What are some potential criticisms or limitations of the theories presented in this lesson?

Q&A Questions for Art and Design Presentations

How do different artistic techniques contribute to the overall aesthetic of the piece?
Can you explain the cultural or historical influences behind the art or design style being taught?
How can personal experiences or emotions be expressed through art and design?
Can you provide examples of famous artists or designers who are known for this particular style or technique?
How does the use of color, shape, and composition impact the visual impact of the artwork or design?
Are there any contemporary or modern trends in art and design that relate to the topic of this lesson?
How does the art or design being taught relate to broader movements or styles in the art world?
How can art and design contribute to social or cultural change?

Fun Presentation Q&A Questions

Q&a questions for powerpoint night presentations.

Do you remember the time when we [shared a memorable adventure or experience]?
What’s your favorite memory from our past travels together?
If we were to plan a group vacation, what destination would you suggest for our bucket list?
What’s one place you’ve always wanted to visit that we haven’t explored together yet?
What’s the most spontaneous or unplanned adventure we’ve had?
What’s our favorite inside joke?
If we were to create a time capsule representing our friendship, what would you include in it?
What’s the craziest or most unexpected thing we’ve ever done together?
What’s your go-to travel snack or comfort food?
What’s a shared goal or dream destination you’d like to achieve with the group?
Can you recall the first time we met, and what was your initial impression of me?
What’s a skill or talent of mine that surprised you when you first discovered it?
If our group had a theme song, what do you think it should be and why?
If we were characters in a movie, how would you describe our dynamic or roles?
What’s a shared goal or aspiration that you think our group could work towards together?
What’s your favorite thing about our friendship that you cherish the most?
If we had a group motto or slogan, what do you think it should be?

Q&A Questions for PowerPoint Games

What are the rules of the game?
How long is the expected duration of the game?
Are there any specific materials or equipment needed to play the game?
Can you explain the objective or goal of the game?
Are there any hidden surprises in the game that players might not immediately notice?
Any secret tips for success in the game?
Are there any special prizes or incentives for winners of tonight’s games?
How is the game scored, and what determines the winner?
What happens if there’s a tie in the game?
Are there any variations or optional rules we should be aware of?
Can you explain the order of play and how turns are determined?
Are there penalties or consequences for certain actions during the game?
Can participants form teams, or is the game strictly individual play?
Are there any restrictions on player movement or interaction during the game?
Can you provide examples of common strategies or tactics used in the game?
How is cheating or rule violations handled in the game?
Can you recommend any strategies for newcomers or first-time players?

Feedback Q&A Questions

What specific aspects of the presentation do you think were most effective?
Can you provide suggestions for improving the clarity of certain points in the presentation?
How well do you think the presenter engaged with the audience during the presentation?
Were there any areas where you felt the presentation could have been more engaging or interactive?
Can you offer insights into the pacing of the presentation and whether it was appropriate?
What are your thoughts on the visual elements, such as slides or graphics, used in the presentation?
Were there any technical issues or challenges that affected your experience during the presentation?
Can you provide feedback on the overall organization and structure of the presentation?
Were there any moments in the presentation that you found particularly memorable or impactful?
Did the presenter effectively convey the key messages or takeaways of the presentation?
How well did the presenter connect with the audience’s level of understanding or familiarity with the topic?
Can you discuss any specific examples or anecdotes that resonated with you during the presentation?
Were there any instances where the presenter could have provided more context or background information?
What are your thoughts on the presenter’s use of language, tone, and overall communication style?
Can you suggest ways in which the presenter could improve audience engagement or participation?
Were there any aspects of the presentation that you found confusing or difficult to follow?
Can you share your overall impression of the presentation and whether it met your expectations?
What recommendations do you have for the presenter to enhance the overall impact and effectiveness of future presentations?

Closing Thoughts

With more than 300 Q&A questions to help you with your preparation, you can save so much time thinking and anticipating the questions your audience may ask during the Q&A session of your presentation. Now, you can focus on what matters most – acing your presentation!

BONUS: Lazy to create PowerPoint presentations from scratch? Try these 11 top-rated AI PowerPoint generators (they’re free!), as well as these 4 ways to use ChatGPT to create PowerPoint presentations .

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Designing Slides That Don’t Suck: 20 questions to ask before you present

When I first started at MarketingSherpa, I was hired under the title of “Visual Storyteller.” Although that title is ambiguous, I learned that I was hired to address a pain point that many professionals face: using PowerPoint efficiently.

My title has since changed, but I remain an advocate for fluent visual expression in the same way that editors are keen on using words efficiently.

As part of my position, I’ve consulted with many speakers over the past few years on creating effective presentations.

Time and time again, I find that confusion lies in how to treat PowerPoint. Many think of PowerPoint as a presentation buddy — that content is on the slides and coming out of the speaker’s mouth and bullet points are simply needed to reinforce the speaker’s message.

This is not true. A person can only process about 1.6 conversations at a time. He can choose to either listen to you or read your slides. The other .6 gets split between emails, texts and interior monologue, to name just a few other channels.

The dictators of any presentation include: audience, context, purpose and design.

About your audience

A speakers’ first priority when beginning to draft their presentation is their audience.

The purpose of speaking is to serve the listeners, not your own ego. Consider whether or not PowerPoint is the right way to get your message across, if it helps to convey your message or if it only dilutes it.

Consider these questions when framing your slides:

Who is my audience?
Why should they listen to me?
How much information do they need?
Do I need to establish credibility for myself or my argument?

The context

Like knowing your audience, contextualizing your deck is vital to the life of your presentation. Don’t use the exact same deck for an audience of 15,000 that you would for an audience of 12. Personalizing and adapting to your audience breaks down the barrier between the stage and the seats.

Consider, for example, a presentation on health and nutrition. The same speaker would present information differently to a group of medical students than a group of kindergartners. The content would be similar and the principles the same, but the language and structure would vary greatly.

Many speakers also struggle with the amount of text to put on the slides.

For live events, much of my time is spent slashing text from slides, adding beautiful imagery and eliminating animations. However, on academic presentations, training and webinars, text is important to reinforce the message since the speaker is teaching from the slides rather than presenting a story.

After establishing the audience, ask yourself these questions about the context:

How large is the audience?
Am I asking for a high-pressure item, such as funding?
Is this strictly informative?
Is this a live presentation, a recording, a webinar or slides-only (like SlideShare)?

Your overall goal and purpose

The content of your slides should be determined by the goal of your presentation. They usually fall into educational, persuasive, storytelling or paradigm-shifting.

With any of these types of presentations, ask yourself these questions when deciding the framework of your presentations — from structure to individual slides:

How do you want the audience’s behavior to change after the presentation?
What is the big ah-ha?
Why should the audience be passionate about your topic?
How can you best convey the urgency of your message?

Bullet points can make your content fall flat.

Instead, use visuals to support your presentation.

Strategizing design

I am a snob when it comes to PowerPoint design. However, design is secondary to messaging. There have been pretty decks that should have never been presented because the content wasn’t there.

Having great content and messaging is more important than how it looks. That being said, good design lends credibility and quality to your presentation or speech that would otherwise seem lackluster and amateurish.

Like in biology, design speaks to the form and function of a presentation.

To help you draft the images on your deck, close your eyes and recite the content. What do you see? If you see clip art, stock photos or endless bullet points — try again. Look for more sophisticated inspiration on Pinterest, Flickr or SlideShare.

Here are some guidelines to help you determine if your slide design is helpful or detrimental:

Do the visuals convey your message?
Are you just trying to fill blank space with your images?
Could the images or text stand alone and still make sense?
Do you need the text, or could you speak to what you’re saying?
Experiment with blank slides and whitespace to catch your audience’s attention.

Building out effective presentations takes practice, not talent. It’s a learned skill that develops over time. Creating something new and finding powerful images that reflect your speech helps to build rapport with your audience and adds a polish to your message.

I encourage you to practice — learn what works, throw out what doesn’t and create really ugly design mistakes in search of something beautiful and unique.

Save this checklist or share it with others.

Also, tell me your presentation secrets in the comments section below, and share what works for you.

You can follow Jessica Lorenz, Event Content Manager, MECLABS Institute, on Twitter at @JessicaPLorenz .

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Practical Media Training and Public Speaking Tips

21 Questions To Ask Before Every Presentation

When we work with new presentation training clients, they’re often surprised that we sit and talk for a while before we get to the actual “training.”

That conversation is critical. We use that valuable time together to answer some basic diagnostic questions that will help determine how they develop and deliver their presentations.

This post could easily have included 137 questions, but I’ve limited it to 21 questions you should ask before every speech or presentation. This article doesn’t attempt to be comprehensive, so I hope you’ll add other questions to the comments section.

Here are 21 questions to ask before every presentation.

QUESTIONS ABOUT LOGISTICS

1. How much time have you been allotted for your presentation?

2. Of that, how much time will you reserve for questions?

3. Will someone introduce you? (If so, have you provided them with a bio or suggested introduction?)

4. From where will you present?

5. How will you present? (e.g. from a prepared script, using bullets, from memory)

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE AUDIENCE

6. How many people will be in attendance?

7. Who, specifically, are they?

8. What are their concerns, challenges and/or goals?

9. How much does the audience already know about your topic?

10. How much do they need to know in order for you to achieve your goal?

11. How would you describe the audience’s current feelings about your topic?

12. From the perspective of the audience, why should they care about your speech?

QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR GOAL

13. What is your goal for this speech?

14. What is the single most important thing you want the audience to remember?

15. What are the one, two, or three points you’d like to make to help the audience remember that single thing?

16. If you’re successful, what will the audience think/feel/do after your speech?

QUESTIONS ABOUT CONTENT AND VISUALS

17. How will you open your talk ?

18. How will you close your talk?

19. What is your call to action ?

20. Will you use visuals to accompany your speech?

21. If yes, what types? (e.g. PowerPoint , whiteboard, poster board, video clips)

Did you enjoy this article? If so, would you please share it with your social networks? Share buttons are below. Thank you!

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Comments (3)

Good job, Brad. This is such good advice. Everyone should read this.

Thank you! That’s high praise coming from The Voice Lady. Appreciate the kind words, and hope this is helpful in planning any upcoming speeches.

[…] intéressante : Les 21 questions à poser avant une présentation. Cet article s’adresse à des conférenciers professionnels, mais quelques points sont […]

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Blog Beginner Guides How To Make a Good Presentation [A Complete Guide]

How To Make a Good Presentation [A Complete Guide]

Written by: Krystle Wong Jul 20, 2023

A top-notch presentation possesses the power to drive action. From winning stakeholders over and conveying a powerful message to securing funding — your secret weapon lies within the realm of creating an effective presentation .

Being an excellent presenter isn’t confined to the boardroom. Whether you’re delivering a presentation at work, pursuing an academic career, involved in a non-profit organization or even a student, nailing the presentation game is a game-changer.

In this article, I’ll cover the top qualities of compelling presentations and walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to give a good presentation. Here’s a little tip to kick things off: for a headstart, check out Venngage’s collection of free presentation templates . They are fully customizable, and the best part is you don’t need professional design skills to make them shine!

These valuable presentation tips cater to individuals from diverse professional backgrounds, encompassing business professionals, sales and marketing teams, educators, trainers, students, researchers, non-profit organizations, public speakers and presenters.

No matter your field or role, these tips for presenting will equip you with the skills to deliver effective presentations that leave a lasting impression on any audience.

Click to jump ahead:

What are the 10 qualities of a good presentation?

Step-by-step guide on how to prepare an effective presentation, 9 effective techniques to deliver a memorable presentation, faqs on making a good presentation, how to create a presentation with venngage in 5 steps.

When it comes to giving an engaging presentation that leaves a lasting impression, it’s not just about the content — it’s also about how you deliver it. Wondering what makes a good presentation? Well, the best presentations I’ve seen consistently exhibit these 10 qualities:

1. Clear structure

No one likes to get lost in a maze of information. Organize your thoughts into a logical flow, complete with an introduction, main points and a solid conclusion. A structured presentation helps your audience follow along effortlessly, leaving them with a sense of satisfaction at the end.

Regardless of your presentation style , a quality presentation starts with a clear roadmap. Browse through Venngage’s template library and select a presentation template that aligns with your content and presentation goals. Here’s a good presentation example template with a logical layout that includes sections for the introduction, main points, supporting information and a conclusion:

2. Engaging opening

Hook your audience right from the start with an attention-grabbing statement, a fascinating question or maybe even a captivating anecdote. Set the stage for a killer presentation!

The opening moments of your presentation hold immense power – check out these 15 ways to start a presentation to set the stage and captivate your audience.

3. Relevant content

Make sure your content aligns with their interests and needs. Your audience is there for a reason, and that’s to get valuable insights. Avoid fluff and get straight to the point, your audience will be genuinely excited.

4. Effective visual aids

Picture this: a slide with walls of text and tiny charts, yawn! Visual aids should be just that—aiding your presentation. Opt for clear and visually appealing slides, engaging images and informative charts that add value and help reinforce your message.

With Venngage, visualizing data takes no effort at all. You can import data from CSV or Google Sheets seamlessly and create stunning charts, graphs and icon stories effortlessly to showcase your data in a captivating and impactful way.

5. Clear and concise communication

Keep your language simple, and avoid jargon or complicated terms. Communicate your ideas clearly, so your audience can easily grasp and retain the information being conveyed. This can prevent confusion and enhance the overall effectiveness of the message.

6. Engaging delivery

Spice up your presentation with a sprinkle of enthusiasm! Maintain eye contact, use expressive gestures and vary your tone of voice to keep your audience glued to the edge of their seats. A touch of charisma goes a long way!

7. Interaction and audience engagement

Turn your presentation into an interactive experience — encourage questions, foster discussions and maybe even throw in a fun activity. Engaged audiences are more likely to remember and embrace your message.

Transform your slides into an interactive presentation with Venngage’s dynamic features like pop-ups, clickable icons and animated elements. Engage your audience with interactive content that lets them explore and interact with your presentation for a truly immersive experience.

8. Effective storytelling

Who doesn’t love a good story? Weaving relevant anecdotes, case studies or even a personal story into your presentation can captivate your audience and create a lasting impact. Stories build connections and make your message memorable.

A great presentation background is also essential as it sets the tone, creates visual interest and reinforces your message. Enhance the overall aesthetics of your presentation with these 15 presentation background examples and captivate your audience’s attention.

9. Well-timed pacing

Pace your presentation thoughtfully with well-designed presentation slides, neither rushing through nor dragging it out. Respect your audience’s time and ensure you cover all the essential points without losing their interest.

10. Strong conclusion

Last impressions linger! Summarize your main points and leave your audience with a clear takeaway. End your presentation with a bang , a call to action or an inspiring thought that resonates long after the conclusion.

In-person presentations aside, acing a virtual presentation is of paramount importance in today’s digital world. Check out this guide to learn how you can adapt your in-person presentations into virtual presentations .

Preparing an effective presentation starts with laying a strong foundation that goes beyond just creating slides and notes. One of the quickest and best ways to make a presentation would be with the help of a good presentation software .

Otherwise, let me walk you to how to prepare for a presentation step by step and unlock the secrets of crafting a professional presentation that sets you apart.

1. Understand the audience and their needs

Before you dive into preparing your masterpiece, take a moment to get to know your target audience. Tailor your presentation to meet their needs and expectations , and you’ll have them hooked from the start!

2. Conduct thorough research on the topic

Time to hit the books (or the internet)! Don’t skimp on the research with your presentation materials — dive deep into the subject matter and gather valuable insights . The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel in delivering your presentation.

3. Organize the content with a clear structure

No one wants to stumble through a chaotic mess of information. Outline your presentation with a clear and logical flow. Start with a captivating introduction, follow up with main points that build on each other and wrap it up with a powerful conclusion that leaves a lasting impression.

Delivering an effective business presentation hinges on captivating your audience, and Venngage’s professionally designed business presentation templates are tailor-made for this purpose. With thoughtfully structured layouts, these templates enhance your message’s clarity and coherence, ensuring a memorable and engaging experience for your audience members.

Don’t want to build your presentation layout from scratch? pick from these 5 foolproof presentation layout ideas that won’t go wrong.

4. Develop visually appealing and supportive visual aids

Spice up your presentation with eye-catching visuals! Create slides that complement your message, not overshadow it. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words, but that doesn’t mean you need to overload your slides with text.

Well-chosen designs create a cohesive and professional look, capturing your audience’s attention and enhancing the overall effectiveness of your message. Here’s a list of carefully curated PowerPoint presentation templates and great background graphics that will significantly influence the visual appeal and engagement of your presentation.

5. Practice, practice and practice

Practice makes perfect — rehearse your presentation and arrive early to your presentation to help overcome stage fright. Familiarity with your material will boost your presentation skills and help you handle curveballs with ease.

6. Seek feedback and make necessary adjustments

Don’t be afraid to ask for help and seek feedback from friends and colleagues. Constructive criticism can help you identify blind spots and fine-tune your presentation to perfection.

With Venngage’s real-time collaboration feature , receiving feedback and editing your presentation is a seamless process. Group members can access and work on the presentation simultaneously and edit content side by side in real-time. Changes will be reflected immediately to the entire team, promoting seamless teamwork.

7. Prepare for potential technical or logistical issues

Prepare for the unexpected by checking your equipment, internet connection and any other potential hiccups. If you’re worried that you’ll miss out on any important points, you could always have note cards prepared. Remember to remain focused and rehearse potential answers to anticipated questions.

8. Fine-tune and polish your presentation

As the big day approaches, give your presentation one last shine. Review your talking points, practice how to present a presentation and make any final tweaks. Deep breaths — you’re on the brink of delivering a successful presentation!

In competitive environments, persuasive presentations set individuals and organizations apart. To brush up on your presentation skills, read these guides on how to make a persuasive presentation and tips to presenting effectively .

Whether you’re an experienced presenter or a novice, the right techniques will let your presentation skills soar to new heights!

From public speaking hacks to interactive elements and storytelling prowess, these 9 effective presentation techniques will empower you to leave a lasting impression on your audience and make your presentations unforgettable.

1. Confidence and positive body language

Positive body language instantly captivates your audience, making them believe in your message as much as you do. Strengthen your stage presence and own that stage like it’s your second home! Stand tall, shoulders back and exude confidence.

2. Eye contact with the audience

Break down that invisible barrier and connect with your audience through their eyes. Maintaining eye contact when giving a presentation builds trust and shows that you’re present and engaged with them.

3. Effective use of hand gestures and movement

A little movement goes a long way! Emphasize key points with purposeful gestures and don’t be afraid to walk around the stage. Your energy will be contagious!

4. Utilize storytelling techniques

Weave the magic of storytelling into your presentation. Share relatable anecdotes, inspiring success stories or even personal experiences that tug at the heartstrings of your audience. Adjust your pitch, pace and volume to match the emotions and intensity of the story. Varying your speaking voice adds depth and enhances your stage presence.

5. Incorporate multimedia elements

Spice up your presentation with a dash of visual pizzazz! Use slides, images and video clips to add depth and clarity to your message. Just remember, less is more—don’t overwhelm them with information overload.

Turn your presentations into an interactive party! Involve your audience with questions, polls or group activities. When they actively participate, they become invested in your presentation’s success. Bring your design to life with animated elements. Venngage allows you to apply animations to icons, images and text to create dynamic and engaging visual content.

6. Utilize humor strategically

Laughter is the best medicine—and a fantastic presentation enhancer! A well-placed joke or lighthearted moment can break the ice and create a warm atmosphere , making your audience more receptive to your message.

7. Practice active listening and respond to feedback

Be attentive to your audience’s reactions and feedback. If they have questions or concerns, address them with genuine interest and respect. Your responsiveness builds rapport and shows that you genuinely care about their experience.

8. Apply the 10-20-30 rule

Apply the 10-20-30 presentation rule and keep it short, sweet and impactful! Stick to ten slides, deliver your presentation within 20 minutes and use a 30-point font to ensure clarity and focus. Less is more, and your audience will thank you for it!

9. Implement the 5-5-5 rule

Simplicity is key. Limit each slide to five bullet points, with only five words per bullet point and allow each slide to remain visible for about five seconds. This rule keeps your presentation concise and prevents information overload.

Simple presentations are more engaging because they are easier to follow. Summarize your presentations and keep them simple with Venngage’s gallery of simple presentation templates and ensure that your message is delivered effectively across your audience.

1. How to start a presentation?

To kick off your presentation effectively, begin with an attention-grabbing statement or a powerful quote. Introduce yourself, establish credibility and clearly state the purpose and relevance of your presentation.

2. How to end a presentation?

For a strong conclusion, summarize your talking points and key takeaways. End with a compelling call to action or a thought-provoking question and remember to thank your audience and invite any final questions or interactions.

3. How to make a presentation interactive?

To make your presentation interactive, encourage questions and discussion throughout your talk. Utilize multimedia elements like videos or images and consider including polls, quizzes or group activities to actively involve your audience.

In need of inspiration for your next presentation? I’ve got your back! Pick from these 120+ presentation ideas, topics and examples to get started.

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Matt Abrahams: A Good Question Can Be the Key to a Successful Presentation

A Stanford GSB lecturer and expert on public speaking explains how you can become a more compelling and confident presenter by asking – not telling – in the right situations.

July 25, 2014

A man sitting in the audience during a speech.

An audience member at a speech in San Francisco. (Reuters photo by Beck Diefenbach)

Of all the tools and techniques a speaker can use to make a presentation more effective, the simple question is the most versatile. Think of it as the Swiss Army Knife of presenting. A well-timed question can accomplish a myriad of communication tasks, from building intrigue to fostering audience engagement, helping you remember what to say, and even calming your speaking anxiety. Leverage questions, and you can become a more compelling and confident presenter. Here’s how:

Questions Connect with the Audience

Audience connection is the key characteristic that distinguishes a memorable presenter from an average one. Are audience members participating with the speaker, or simply listening to the speaker? Questions provide a great way to foster engagement. Questions by their very nature are dialogic. They’re two-way: You ask and your audience responds. I recommend using three types of questions throughout your presentation to get your audience’s attention:

Rhetorical questions build intrigue. Asking your audience a question for effect (rather than one you expect them to actually answer) prompts them to think about the issue. Example: “Would you believe that companies are making robotic honeybees to pollinate crops in locales where bees are dying off?”
Polling questions make the audience part of your point. When asking your audience to respond to your query, be sure to signal how you want them to do so (e.g., model raising your hand as you ask your question, or explain how the online poll works if you are virtually presenting) and comment briefly on the response you get (e.g., “Just as I expected, about 50% of you … ”). Example: “How many of you have ever been stung by a honeybee?”
“What if?” questions root your presentation in time. Inquire about a possible future or the historical past; and as with rhetorical questions, you may not expect a literal response, but you definitely focus your audience’s attention on the time period you’re describing. Example: “What would it be like if all crops were pollinated by robo-honeybees?” Or, “Remember when modern science made it possible for genetically modified vegetables to yield more crops?”

Questions Build Your Confidence

Many speakers are anxious because they feel they are under the harsh spotlight of an audience who is constantly evaluating them. But, interestingly, incorporating questions from the moment you start planning can help you feel more confident about every aspect of presenting. Here are two ways to use questions in planning to improve your delivery:

Ask yourself, “What does my audience need to hear from me?” Instead of seeing speaking as a performance, think of it as being in service of your audience’s needs – this shifts the attention away from you and onto your audience. The most useful way I know to focus on your audience is to start by asking yourself the simple question: “What does my audience need to hear from me?” This not only helps you tailor your message to your audience, but it also reminds you that they are the ones in the spotlight. Make this question your mantra as you prepare and practice your presentations.
Outline your talk using questions. When writing your next outline, create a list of questions to serve as prompts for what you intend to say. I loathe speaking manuscripts and full-text speaker notes, which only invite memorization and actually increase performance anxiety. An outline, on the other hand, is a very practical tool to help speakers prepare and deliver. And the power of a question-based outline is twofold: First, it allows you to feel more confident because you know the answers to your questions – you no longer need to worry you might not know what to say. Second, you will be more conversational, since you are simply answering your audience’s unasked questions, and conversational delivery is often better remembered by audiences.

When you next face preparing for and delivering a presentation, consider using the MacGyver of communication tools, the question. For just about any task at hand, it can yield all kinds of benefits for you and your audience.

For media inquiries, visit the Newsroom .

Explore More

Lose yourself: the secret to finding flow and being fully present, speak your truth: why authenticity leads to better communication, when words aren’t enough: how to excel at nonverbal communication, editor’s picks.

March 13, 2014 Matt Abrahams: How to Make Unforgettable Presentations A Stanford lecturer and expert on public speaking explains how to ensure your audience remembers what they hear and see.

March 04, 2014 Matt Abrahams: Presentations and the Art of the Graceful Recovery A Stanford lecturer and expert on public speaking explains what to do when memory fails.

February 26, 2014 Matt Abrahams: How Do You Make a Memorable Presentation? A Stanford lecturer and expert on public speaking explains how to manage anxiety and deliver a smooth presentation.

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Effective Presentation Skills Tutorial
Handling Questions and Answers

At the end of your presentation, if it is appropriate for the type of presentation, solicit questions from the audience.

Responding to Audience Questions

When someone is asking a question, make eye contact with that person, listen positively, and acknowledge by saying "thank you for that question," or say "that is an excellent question" or "that is an important question".

If the audience is in a large room and cannot hear each other's questions, repeat the question loudly for everyone to hear, before answering it.

If you know the answer to the question, respond appropriately and briefly so you can take more questions and not spend too much time on one question.

Effective Response to Question

This video clip is an example of a presenter effectively responding to an audience member's question .

Ineffective Response to Question

This video clip is an example of a presenter ineffectively responding to an audience member's question .

If the question is not relevant to the presentation, say something like, "I am really sorry that question is outside the scope of this presentation, but I will be happy to stay after the presentation and discuss it with you."

Effective Response to Off-topic Question

This video clip is an example of a presenter effectively responding to an off-topic question or one in which he or she does not know the answer .

Inappropriate Response to Off-topic Question

This video clip is an example of a presenter inappropriately responding to an off-topic question or one in which he or she does not know the answer .

If time is running out for answering all of the questions, say, "I am sorry. I am running out of time, but I will take one last question, and then I will be available at the end to answer any remaining questions."

If you do not know the answer to a question say, "That is an interesting question, and I will have to get back to you later on that" or ask the audience "Can someone help me with this?" or be gracious and acknowledge you do not know the answer at that time.

If an audience member criticizes or attacks what you had covered in your presentation, do not attack back, but separate the valid criticism from the personal attack, and respond to the criticism appropriately.

Some things not to do during the question and answer period:

Shuffling papers or technology and not making eye contact with the questioner
Belittling the questioner
Calling those who want to ask questions by their physical characteristics
Not taking questions in the sequence they are asked, but focusing on certain people or a side of the room

Asking Good Questions

If you are in the audience, know also how to ask good questions to indicate that you are following the presentation.

You can ask some general questions about any topic, and you may be genuinely curious about some things presented.

What were the most challenging aspects, or what surprised you the most, in conducting this project?
Why did you choose this particular methodology or argument instead of another one?
How did you collect the data? Were there any problems in collecting data? What was the sample size?
How did you validate your work? Did you validate with a real problem or situation?
What are some of the limitations of your work?
What recommendations do you have for further exploration in this project?

Learning to ask good questions at the end of a presentation demonstrates your active participation.

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10 Questions to Ask When Creating a Killer PowerPoint Presentation How to craft presentation slides that powerfully visualize your ideas, engage your audience and boost your brand.

By Kim Lachance Shandrow • Jan 22, 2014

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

As an entrepreneur, speaking at influential industry trade shows and conferences positions your products and services center stage, exactly where you want your brand to be.

When done right, showcasing your brand in a dynamic presentation can reel in new customers, attract capital and generate positive media buzz. When done wrong, well, just ask Michael Bay and the folks at Samsung .

Your PowerPoint (or Prezi or Keynote ) presentation slides have to be spot-on. This goes for whether you're presenting at a big conference or for customers or colleagues. Not only do carefully planned slides help you stay on-topic, more importantly, they help you tell a memorable story that informs, engages and hopefully even inspires your audience to do business with you.

Here are 10 important questions to consider when crafting your next PowerPoint presentation:

1. What do I need to think about before designing my first slide? If you start by opening PowerPoint and haphazardly typing bullet points, you're off to a rough start, says Adam Sigel , a Boston-based product manager at New York City-based streaming TV startup Aereo , and teacher of Skillshare's Slide Chi: Advanced PowerPoint Design/Workshop Class .

Your first step should be identifying key messages, then creating a clear outline for their delivery, Sigel advises. "Focus first on a single memorable message that you want your audience to understand and what value your message will have to them," he says.

Also consider what your ultimate goal is. For example, is your aim in presenting to earn customers or strategic partnerships? Is it to broaden your industry influence or highlight new products and services?

2. How can I create a presentation that really connects with my audience? Show them that you understand their needs by presenting a value proposition tailored to them and you'll make a lasting impact, Sigel says. This is something only you -- not your PowerPoint slides -- can do. "If slides alone could win you business, salespeople would just email them to prospects and say, 'Please return with a signed copy of the contract,'" Sigel says. If only it were that easy.

To reach your listeners, "connect with them in the way you connect with anyone else in your life -- with empathy and emotion," he says. Explain how your idea (or product or service) can improve their lives or work. Be careful not to come off too hard sales-y, though. Keep your tone conversational, informative and friendly, not corporate and stiff.

3. How much textual content should I include? There's no one-size-fits-all word count when it comes to slide text. "I've heard various rules about how many bullets per slide and how many words per bullet and I don't listen to any of it," says Sigel. He suggests using powerful single words, short phrases or clear and concise single sentences per slide, versus cramming slides full of trailing bullet points and long-winded paragraphs.

Remember that slides merely provide visual support for your talk. Filling them with too many words creates an audience of readers, not listeners. "If people are reading your slides, they're unable to listen to you, and they came to hear you."

4. How many slides should I have? How many slides you feature depends on how much visual support you need for what you're explaining.

Sigel recommends using venture capitalist and business author Guy Kawasaki 's 10/20/30 PowerPoint Rule : 10 slides presented in 20 minutes, with no font smaller than 30-point type.

Kawasaki suggests tackling the following topics in 10 short and sweet slides total, especially if you're addressing venture capitalists:

Your solution
Business model
Underlying magic/technology
Marketing and sales
Competition
Projections and milestones
Status and timeline
Summary and call to action

5. How can I be sure that my textual slides are as efficient and high-impact as possible? Start by just saying no to convoluted prefab PowerPoint templates. Instead, for every slide you make, Sigel suggests writing down a single sentence that captures the message of that slide. Next, circle the single most important word or phrase in that sentence. Then see how well your slide reflects your circled key word. What text can you omit to get to your point in fewer words? What can you move off of the slide and into your speaking notes?

You'll also want to boost the impact of your slides by varying their backgrounds, Sigel says. Mix it up and with a blend of solid backgrounds, subtle gradients and full-sized background images with the transparency turned up.

6. What types of images should I incorporate into my slides and why? Studies show that visual information, when delivered well during a presentation, can capture and hold your audience's attention much better than if you use no images. Images also enhance information recall.

Pictures of faces are perhaps the most powerful presentation visuals of all, Sigel says. "People connect with other people, so I like to incorporate faces, hands, and other human elements in my slides whenever I can." High resolution images of your company's logo and products are also strong choices.

Whichever images you use, they should always be high quality and professional, never cheesy clip art. Some popular free stock photography sites to source top notch high resolution images from include Stock Free Images , Freerange and stock.xchng . Some inexpensive paid stock photo options are iStockPhoto , Fotolia and Veer .

7. What about slide transitions? Should I go all-out with them or limit them? It's best to use them sparingly, if at all, Sigel says. If you do use transitions, do so only to strengthen a visual metaphor or to show a process. "Too much pizazz and your presentation can quickly go from professional to school project."

8. Should I add audio and video elements to my presentation? Yes, but tread lightly and carefully, Sigel cautions. He says that audio, video and animation features "tend to be the first to break when switching software versions, say from PowerPoint 2010 to PowerPoint 2013."

Sigel advises saving your presentation's audio and video files locally to the computer or USB drive you plan to use during your presentation. This eliminates most playback problems, like long buffering times due to a slow internet connection.

9. Should I use charts? If so, what kind? On his popular blog, marketing expert Seth Godin says the only reason to include statistics in a PowerPoint presentation is to " advance an argument ." For example, if you want to parade impressive customer base growth over time, a simple, well-organized chart can help you make your point. Limit yourself to one story (or main point) per chart.

As for what types of charts to use, Godin states on his blog that he prefers line and pie charts (as opposed to bar charts) and suggests animating them for optimal impact.

10. What are some common PowerPoint mistakes and clich?s to avoid? One of the worst offenders is reading all of the text on each slide, word for word. Some other offenses Sigel would like to see retired forever include: confusing charts, freaky fonts, animated text and SmartArt , which is neither smart nor art, he says.

Former West Coast Editor

Kim Lachance Shandrow is the former West Coast editor at Entrepreneur.com. Previously, she was a commerce columnist at Los Angeles CityBeat, a news producer at MSNBC and KNBC in Los Angeles and a frequent contributor to the Los Angeles Times . She has also written for Government Technology magazine, LA Yoga magazine, the Lowell Sun newspaper, HealthCentral.com, PsychCentral.com and the former U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. C. Everett Coop. Follow her on Twitter at @Lashandrow . You can also follow her on Facebook here .

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The most successful ways to answer questions from your audience.

Every presenter will eventually have to deal with questions from an audience, but what are the best ways to prepare for the questions they may ask? In this article Simon gives a few tips to make sure you’re always ready to answer your audience’s questions effectively, and with confidence .

Let’s face it, presentations are scary. And that’s quite right – they should be. Nerves show you care. If you’re not nervous, why are you bothering? I’ve met good presenters and I’ve met presenters who aren’t nervous: I can count the number of presenters who are in both camps on the thumbs of one foot.

So far, so obvious. But when I ask clients what the most scary bit of presentations is, they most common answer I get is, the questions section.

If I probe deeper, the reasons it’s the most nerve-wracking include things like:

I can control the rest of the presentation but not this bit
I can’t rehearse the questions – or the answers!
I have to think too fast
I might not know the answers
I might find out people didn’t like it
I might have made a mistake

The scary bit, then. The bit of the presentation which brings even experienced presenters out in a cold sweat. Before we get into the tools and techniques for handling questions, let’s look at some of these, very quickly. We can shoot a few of these issues down without breaking sweat – particularly the last few…

Get your ego out of the way

Let’s face it, if you’ve made mistakes, wouldn’t you like to know? If you’d rather people didn’t tell you that you’ve screwed up, you’re not ever going to get a job on my team. The same is true if you’d rather not know that people didn’t like it. Grow up.

And while we’re at it, if you don’t know the answers, that’s fine. Not ideal, but it’s not the end of the world. So long as you know enough, it’s okay. Not knowing the answers is only a problem if you don’t know too many of the answers.

So let’s move on and look at bit more at the ‘real’ issues.

The first thing to say is that more or less any and all of the tricks you learn as a presenter for handling nerves can be used at the start of questions. At the moment when you invite the questions, do your nerves-control-techniques , just like you did at the start of the presentation. (If you don’t have any, pay me to learn some 😉 )

The second key point is very simple. People only ask questions for one of two reasons. Firstly, to show off and secondly because they’re interested. The first group will be transparent to the audience, so don’t lose any sleep over anyone whose ego is bigger than their common sense. The second group, those who ask questions because they want to know more, are to be celebrated. They’re a good thing. Honestly.

Remember, people only ask questions if they care. The very fact that they’re asking questions is a great thing because it shows you did the key thing a presentation is supposed to do – you got them interested. When the questions happen, allow yourself a little smile inside. Result!

Predicting the future – and guessing the questions

But what about this idea that you don’t know what the questions are going to be?

Sorry, but that’s tosh. You might not be able to predict exactly what question, but you can certainly predict the sort of question. A structured, sensible process for designing your presentation – whatever process you use – will certainly throw up more content than you can fit into your presentation. The process of designing your presentation should start off by deciding what to remove.

Chances are, the questions you get will lie in that area you’ve cut out. And if that’s the case, you know what the content is, so you can design your answers just like you’d design the rest of your presentation . Simple.

Well yes… but just because it’s simple doesn’t mean it’s easy. Just ask anyone who’s ever tried to lose weight. The rules of “Eat less: move more” are simple – but not easy!

So let’s break it down a bit to make it more practical. I’m going to start by looking at how to handle the worst case scenario… the blank head where you just don’t know the answer. (Note, I’m dealing with it first because it’s easy to get out of the way, not because it happens often!)

I have no idea

The worst case scenario is simply not to know the answer, so let’s deal with that first. The best way I’ve ever found to handle this issue is to be honest about it, but to respond in a very structured way, so that my credibility stays intact. The formula is this:

I don’t know, but it’s a good point
so I’ll find out
and if you give me your email address I’ll get back to you about it
by lunchtime on Thursday

Obviously you change the time in the last part to be something you can handle. The first line is a simple admission that you’ve not got the answer to hand. The second part is where you start to recover. The last line is the critical one though. This is how you sound credible to the audience.

Try it for yourself: just say the first line and see how ‘shallow’ it sounds. Then start from the beginning and go through the first two lines. It’s better, but it’s not trustworthy. Finally, run through the whole set of lines and see how much more ‘weight’ the whole thing has when you make a specific promise.

It goes without saying that you need to deliver on that promise!

I still have no idea

A couple of alternative techniques are useful here, too… you can use these in a mix-and-match way.

Open up to the audience. Try something like “That’ a very good question – what does everyone else in the room think?”. If you do it with enough style and you’ve used an approach up until that point which has been sufficiently collaborative and informal, it can work seamlessly.
Use a broader-brush answer . Sometimes the question isn’t one that requires a very specific response. You’d be surprised how often one broad-brush answer can be applied to different questions. Take a few moments to consider if this is one of those times. If you’ve got (say) five or six such ‘generic’ answers sorted out in your head before you start your presentation you can often apply one of them instead of trying to improvise an answer.

Save yourself some thinking and PREP

Answering questions means you have to think hard and fast – about both the content of what you say and the way that you say it. One very handy trick is to use structured formulae to give your response a shape. That way you only need to think about the actual content – halving the work on your brain. Once you’ve learned these tools, not only will you love ‘em, you’ll spot them almost every time you listen to a political interview.

This formula is particularly handy for dealing with challenging questions: it stands for Past, Present and Future.

You use it like this:

“You’re absolutely right to point out that in the past our response times have been too slow. It often took us up to a week to get back to users who emailed in with questions – although the average response time was only 36 hours.”
“What we’re doing right now is investing in training 14 new members of the online help team. They’re all experts in the software already, so we’re just bringing them up to speed about how the helpdesk works.”
“What this means that starting next Monday we’ll have a bigger response team standing by, as these new people come on-stream: they should all be up-and-running within only ten days.”

(Numbers 1, 2 and 3 representing Past, Present and Future, in this example.)

This is the most subtle of the formulae, and it stands for Point, Reason, Example, Point. The last point is a restatement of the first one to really hammer it home, not a new point.

The Reason section of your response deals with big picture, data and statistical responses. It puts a logical set of facts to your audience. To make it more impactful with your audience you need to back it up with an Example . Finally you recap your Point .

This example shows you how I used it to respond to a challenging question about women’s rights from someone who was genuinely surprised that women and (more or less) equal rights to men in the UK, including being able to vote…

“Do I believe women should have the right to vote? Yes, absolutely!”
“Let’s face it, women make up a bit over half the population of the country and they bring in about forty-eight percent of our GDP – nearly half the money they country gets in.”
“In fact, in my own household, my wife has a great job and bring in nearly twice the amount I do. It makes her the economic head of the household, although we don’t think of it in those terms. It would seem daft to have the economic head of the household able to vote!”
“So yeah, absolutely, I think women should vote!”

I’ve labeled the PREP parts as numbers 1 to 4 so you can see what’s what, but the words should flow naturally.

That’s it. Actually it’s not – there’s always more to be said… but it’s a great start.

Predict your questions, prepare your answers. Celebrate them when you get them, and use formulae to help you structure your answers. You’ll be great!

Don’t finish with questions

It all too easily means your presentation gradually runs out of energy and finishes with a whimper. Better to end with a bang. What I do is to take the questions and then when there are (almost) no questions left, go back into ‘ delivery ’ mode to give a very (very!) brief summary before wrapping up with my trademark close. It means the presentation finishes with high energy, on my terms…

Latest Posts

Simon Raybould

+simon raybould, latest posts by simon raybould ( see all ).

Motivational Speakers – Are They All They’re Cracked Up To Be? - 4th April 2017
Do I Really Need Slides in Every Presentation? - 18th October 2016
The Most Successful Ways to Answer Questions From Your Audience - 8th September 2016

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6 questioning tactics to use in your next presentation that maximise audience engagement

The famous scientific philosopher Thomas Kuhn said, “the answers you get depend on the questions you ask,” so if you’re not getting the answers, or audience engagement you want, maybe it’s time to take a look at the questions you’re asking.

The art of asking the right questions helps you to gain deep insights, support informed decision making and develop effective solutions to any challenges or plug information gaps. You might ask questions for data collection, tests or research, but it’s important to note that the questions you ask can have a huge impact on the results you get.

When it comes to asking your audience questions with a view to increasing engagement, there's several questioning tactics and question styles you can use, and we’ve detailed some below.

Build rapport and warm up with Icebreakers

Icebreakers should be easy questions that don't require too much thinking capacity. They might not be important from an informational point of view, but they have an important function for engagement. Our brain is highly social and thrives on interaction.

By starting a formalised meeting with light-hearted questioning, dopamine is released which lights up the sense of reward in the brain, encouraging this positive behaviour. Using a live polling tool to ask your icebreaker ramps up the interaction and excitement, increasing audience engagement even further.

Kick things off with:

Who will win the match at the weekend?
What is your favourite movie?
How did you get here today?

Why not download our ready to use PowerPoint icebreakers to poll your audience with?

Ask open questions

Questioning, with a view to increasing engagement, becomes even more effective when you use open questions - especially good if you’re using a word cloud polling tool . Open questions prompt your audience to consider their personal opinions and beliefs in their response, bringing them closer to the subject matter and naturally increasing interest and audience engagement.

Get your audience to open up by asking:

What has been your most memorable part of the day/session?
What will you do differently as a result of this session?
Describe your feelings about the proposed changes in one word...

Try the 5 W's

Basic though they may be, asking questions that begin with one of the five ‘W's will almost guarantee you an answer that isn't too taxing for the audience to come up with, perfect if you’re looking for data. Combine one of the 'W's with one of these other techniques and you'll amplify the effectiveness.

Why not try...

Who, do you find inspirational?
What, is your biggest challenge?
When, do you feel most productive?
Where, should we hold the next event?
Why do you think (this resource/product/book/technique) is so popular?

You don't need to get too deep and meaningful with your audience but prompting them to reflect can be a powerful engagement tool for both you and them. Often, we all spend so much time looking forward, that we can forget to take a look back to find lessons or inspiration to help us acknowledge, grow, progress and continue to engage.

Ask your audience to ponder on these...

What has held you back?
Who has helped you the most with this project?
What would you tell your younger self?
How would you approach this differently now you have experience?

Make a statement, provoke a reaction

Rhetorical questions are often used by coaches or public speakers for effect, to get the audience thinking. Why do they work? Typically, rhetorical questions can be blunt or provocative, they can stop the audience in their tracks and prompt them to pay attention or re-engage if asked midway through a presentation or speech.

Rhetorical questions can also resonate strongly, as each audience member ponders the question in the context of their own reality, increasing the poignancy of the question.

How about asking...

Why does this even matter?
How do we overcome this?
What does this say about who we are?
Where do we go next?

Democratic decision making

We're huge fans of democracy (current politics aside) and nothing engages an audience more than the knowledge that their contribution affects the outcome. Whether you're hunting answers from your audience for the sake of data, to gauge opinion, or to actually make a real-life decision, the use of live-polling will get the crowds engaging.

Multi-choice polling is really effective and increases engagement by giving your audience a sense of autonomy over the decision at hand by providing them with the answers to choose between. Poll the audience with…

How often should we hold these sessions? Weekly, monthly, annually?
Where should we go for our next social outing? Pub/restaurant, mini golf, bowling?
How is the room temperature? Too hot, Too cold, Just right?

So, now you’ve got 6 question types to try out and engage with your next audience. As a last piece of advice, an engaged audience is a natural bi-product if the information you’re sharing is interesting, relevant and the audience can learn something from you, or about themselves.

From the blog.

10 word cloud questions to kickstart an interactive quiz

10 multiple choice poll questions for classes

Vevox Product Update March 2024

The 10 steps to asking questions so you get an answer every time

by Olivia Mitchell | 17 comments

Asking questions of your audience is a great way to keep the audience engaged. But asking questions is an art. I asked on Twitter what people found hardest about asking questions that engage your audience:

Lee Potts from Breaking Murphy’s Law “Posing the question in such a way that guarantees someone, anyone, will answer and not leave me hanging.”

Brent Dykes from PowerPoint Ninja “How to recover from a question or series of questions that get crickets (i.e., silence)?”

You ask a question and the audience looks blankly back at you

You may have suffered the same fate. There are many reasons why people won’t answer your questions ranging from lack of clarity of the question to fear of public speaking.

Here are the 10 steps for asking questions in a presentation which will help you avoid being left hanging.

1. Warm up your audience first

Comedians warm-up their audiences – or if they’re stars – they have another comedian do it for them.

You also need to warm up your audience first. They need to get to know you and trust you a little before they’ll venture answering a question.

2. Don’t let them settle into a passive mode

But don’t leave it too long before you start asking questions. If you leave it too long, people will settle into a passive “TV-watching” mode and it will be difficult to rouse them into responding. So once you’ve established rapport (2-5 minutes) start asking questions. The audience will then get that this is an interactive presentation and will stay on their toes rather than settling into that passive mode.

3. Move from easy to more challenging questions through your presentation

Plan your questions so that they move your presentation forward. This matrix will help you plan your questions.

For example, say I was giving a presentation on “Overcoming your fear of public speaking” I could use this matrix to come up with progressively more challenging questions. I would start with questions from the bottom-left corner. These are easy questions which will get me and my audience on a roll. But if I only asked questions like this they would soon become trite and boring. More quiz show than presentation.

So as you move through your presentation move towards the top-right corner and ask more challenging questions which will get your audience thinking. Here’s a resource for asking challenging questions .

At every stage your questions needs to be tightly choreographed with the substance of your presentation. The answers to each question need to move the presentation forward.

You’ll get from this that you need to carefully plan your questions. You can’t just blurt out a question that just popped into your head. Asking engaging questions that your audience will answer needs careful planning.

4. Signal your question

Sometimes people don’t answer a question because they weren’t listening or they didn’t realize you wanted an answer. Let your audience know you’re about to ask a question. For example, you might say “Here’s a question I’d like you to answer.”

Avoid mixing rhetorical questions (these are questions you don’t expect your audience to answer) with “real” questions. Your audience will get confused about whether they’re supposed to answer or not.

5. Frame your question so that people know exactly what you want

A major reason people don’t answer questions in a presentation is because they’re not clear on what the questioner really wants. Never underestimate the ability of the audience to misunderstand your question.

The build-up to and the phrasing of your question are both critical to ensuring that people understand the question and are comfortable answering. For example, in my presentation on nervousness, if I simply ask “what symptoms of nervousness do you get?” I might not get many responses and some might be slightly off-topic (eg: I don’t like talking to people I know”).

Here’s how I get the best results. I start by telling my own story of getting ultra-nervous before a presentation. I describe my heart-beating as if it was going to explode out of my chest and the sweat trickling down my sides! Then I ask:

“What bodily symptoms of nervousness do you get?”

The answers come so quick and fast that I have to get someone to help me write them all up on the flipchart. Why does this work so well:

I’ve shown them what I want by describing my own physical symptoms.
I’ve made them more comfortable about sharing these personal details by sharing first.
I’ve made my question ultra-clear by asking for “bodily symptoms”.

Again, planning is critical. Draft your questions and then test them out on your friends and see if you get the type of answers you’re looking for. Then refine and test again.

6. Ask your question slowly and clearly

You want people to understand you the first time. To make sure you get the phrasing right during the presentation, write the question out in full on a small card and read your question from the card if you need to. Quiz show hosts do this and so can you.

You could also write the question on a slide so that people can read it for themselves and ponder on it.

7. Make it easy for people to answer

Many people avoid answering questions because it means speaking in front of a group a.k.a. public speaking. So you need to make it easy for them. There are a number of ways of doing this:

Split your audience into small groups (2-4 people) to discuss the question. Then ask for one person from each group to summarize the answers from that group. The spokesperson is just reporting back so there isn’t the same fear of looking stupid with a wrong answer. Less confident people won’t have to speak in front of the group but will still have been able to take part in the discussion.
Hand out post-it notes and ask people to write their answer on the post-it and then come and stick it on the wall.
Ask people to write their answer on a flip chart at the front of the room.
This next method requires you to have some space in your room. Ask people to stand and move to the space. Create an imaginary line across the space by walking along the line. Let them know you’ll be asking a question and you’ll want them to answer by moving to a spot on the imaginary line. For example, I use this technique for people to see the level of presenting experience in the room. I’ll stand at one end of the line and say “Stand here if you’ve got lots of experience presenting”, then I’ll walk down the line to about the half-way spot and say “Stand here if you’ve got some experience” and then down to the other end and say “Stand here if you’ve hardly ever done it before.”

8. Wait for answers

If you simply ask a question and want people to volunteer answers in front of the group you need to wait for the answers. Most people won’t answer straight away. They need time to think. Expect this. Wait in a relaxed but expectant stance. Look softly at different people in your audience. Normally someone will speak. Wait at least 10 seconds. Yes, this will feel like an eternity to you.

If nobody answers you’ve got two options:

Repeat the question and ask them to talk to their neighbor about it.
Give the answer yourself and move on smoothly with your presentation.

After the presentation, ask for some feedback from individual audience members why the question didn’t work. You’ll learn valuable lessons for next time.

9. Use the answers you get

Incorporate the answers you get into the flow of your presentation. If you don’t do anything with the answers, people will fail to see the point and will stop contributing.

A great tool here is a flip chart. Writing up the answers on the flip chart demonstrates that you value the answers you’re getting. If the answers are coming very fast you may need to have an assistant to help you write them up. Write them up as closely as you can to the way the person said it. If you need to paraphrase check with the person that it accurately reflects what they said.

10. Do not humiliate anyone

You may think that you would never do this, but it’s incredibly easy to do unintentionally. Here’s how to avoid doing it:

Acknowledge each answer you get with a warm “Thank you.”
Do not gush over one particular answer – others will feel slighted in comparison.
If somebody’s answer is totally wrong or misguided take responsibility for it. For example, you might say “Oh! that’s not quite what I was looking for but I can see why you said that. What I meant was….”
Do not call on individuals to answer – they will feel put on the spot.

Note that if you humiliate one person it has a ripple effect. Others will feel for them and will want to avoid the same fate.

These 10 steps will help you avoid being left hanging – but they’re not a guarantee – asking questions is an art that requires practice and feedback. What other tips do you have for asking questions that engage your audience?

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17 Comments

Here’s an old teacher’s trick for a shy audience: start with an action.

Instead of asking the audience “Show of hands — how many of you…” — do the opposite. Ask everyone to raise their hands.

This gets everyone “active” right away.

Next, you can demand, “Now, drop your hand if…”

Love this – so smart!

Thanks laua for your advice

Love this! Thank you

Great post, Olivia. These strategies are highly useful and they absolutely work!

Great suggestions, Olivia. Thanks for the insight.

Everything you say about getting people to answer questions is right on. And what you say applies equally well to getting people to ask questions.

I like to ask my audience questions. (I hope that I follow your guidelines when I do, although I need to work on framing my questions so they’re immediately and easily understood.) And then I follow up — if appropriate — with, “And what questions do you have?” If I ask, “Do you have any questions?” they just sit there. (It’s a yes/no question, which doesn’t encourage engagement.) But by asking what questions they have, I let them know I presume they have some. It doesn’t work all the time, but it usually gets people started.

Great ideas, Olivia. Though you implied it, I think it’s worth making obvious that the very best questions are those to which there are many right answers, or even better, no wrong answers.

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How to Tame your Fear of Public Speaking

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Does it make sense that if you changed the way you talked to yourself, you could reduce your fear of public speaking?

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14 Practical Tips to Improve Your Presentation Skills

The Speaker Lab
May 11, 2024

Ever felt complete dread and fear at the thought of stepping up to deliver a presentation? If so, you’re not alone. The fear of public speaking is more common than you might think, but with the right presentation skills , it’s a hurdle that can be overcome.

In this article, we’ll help you master basic confidence-building techniques and conquer advanced communication strategies for engaging presentations. We’ll explore how body language and eye contact can make or break your connection with your audience; delve into preparation techniques like dealing with filler words and nervous habits; discuss tailoring content for different audiences; and much more.

Whether you’re prepping for job interviews or gearing up for big presentations, being prepared is key. With adequate practice and the proper attitude, you can crush your speech or presentation!

Mastering the Basics of Presentation Skills

Presentation skills are not just about speaking in front of a crowd. It’s also about effective communication, audience engagement, and clarity. Mastering these skills can be transformative for everyone, from students to corporate trainers.

Building Confidence in Presentations

Becoming confident when presenting is no small feat. But fear not. Even those who feel jittery at the mere thought of public speaking can become masters with practice and patience. Just remember: stage fright is common and overcoming it is part of the process towards becoming an effective presenter.

Taking deep breaths before you start helps calm nerves while visualizing success aids in building confidence. Also, know that nobody minds if you take a moment to gather your thoughts during your presentation—everybody minds more if they cannot understand what you’re saying because you’re rushing.

The Role of Practice in Enhancing Presentation Skills

In line with old wisdom, practice indeed makes perfect, especially when improving presentation skills. Consistent rehearsals allow us to fine-tune our delivery methods like maintaining eye contact or controlling body language effectively.

You’ll learn better control over filler words through repeated drills. Plus, the extra practice can help you troubleshoot any technical glitches beforehand, saving you the sudden panic during your actual presentations.

Remember that great presenters were once beginners too. Continuous effort will get you there sooner rather than later.

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Body Language and Eye Contact in Presentations

The effectiveness of your presentation can hinge on more than just the words you say. Just as important is your body language .

Impact of Posture on Presentations

Your posture speaks volumes before you utter a word. Standing tall exudes confidence while slouching could signal nervousness or lack of preparation.

If there’s one lesson to take away from our YouTube channel , it’s this: good presenters know their message but great ones feel it through every fiber (or muscle) of their being. The audience can sense that energy when they see open body language rather than crossed arms.

Maintaining Eye Contact During Your Presentation

Eyes are often called windows to the soul for a reason. They’re communication powerhouses. Making eye contact helps build trust with your audience members and keeps them engaged throughout your speech.

Avoid staring at note cards or visual aids too much as this might give an impression that you’re unprepared or uncertain about your chosen topic. Instead, aim to maintain eye contact between 50% of the time during presentations. This commonly accepted “50/70 rule” will help you exhibit adequate confidence to your audience.

If stage fright has gotten a hold on you, take deep breaths before you start speaking in order to stay calm. Make sure that fear doesn’t disrupt your ability to maintain eye-contact during presentations.

If body language and eye contact still feel like a lot to manage during your big presentation, remember our golden rule: nobody minds small mistakes. It’s how you handle questions or mishaps that truly makes a difference—so stay positive and enthusiastic.

Preparation Techniques for Successful Presentations

Presentation skills are like a craft that requires meticulous preparation and practice. Aspects like visual aids and time management contribute to the overall effectiveness of your delivery.

The first step towards delivering an impactful presentation is research and organization. The content should be well-researched, structured logically, and presented in simple language. This will make sure you deliver clear messages without any room for misinterpretation.

Dealing with Filler Words and Nervous Habits

Nervous habits such as excessive use of filler words can distract from your message. Luckily, there are plenty of strategies that can address these issues. For instance, try taking deep breaths before speaking or using note cards until fluency is achieved. In addition, practice regularly to work on eliminating these verbal stumbling blocks.

Avoiding Distractions During Presentations

In a digital age where distractions abound, maintaining focus during presentations has become an even more crucial part of the preparation process. This video by motivational speaker Brain Tracy provides insights on how one could achieve this level of focus required for effective presentations.

Maintaining Confidence Throughout Your Presentation

Confidence comes from thorough understanding of the chosen topic combined with regular practice sessions before the big day arrives. Make use of note cards or cue cards as needed but avoid reading from them verbatim.

Taking control over stage fright starts by arriving early at the venue so that you familiarize yourself with the surroundings, which generally calms nerves down considerably. So next time you feel nervous before a big presentation, remember—thorough preparation can make all the difference.

Engaging Your Audience During Presentations

Connecting with your audience during presentations is an art, and mastering it can take your presentation skills to the next level. Making the message conveyed reach an emotional level is essential, not just conveying facts.

Understanding Your Target Audience

The first step towards engaging your audience is understanding them. Tailor the content of your presentation to their needs and interests. Speak in their language—whether that be professional jargon or everyday slang—to establish rapport and ensure comprehension.

An effective presenter understands who they’re speaking to, what those individuals care about, and how best to communicate complex ideas understandably.

Making Complex Information Understandable

Dense data or complicated concepts can lose even the most interested listener if presented ineffectively. Breaking your key points down into manageable chunks helps maintain attention while promoting retention. Analogies are especially useful for this purpose as they make unfamiliar topics more relatable.

Audience Participation & Questions: A Two-Way Street

Incorporating opportunities for audience participation encourages engagement at another level. It allows listeners to become active participants rather than passive receivers of knowledge.

Consider techniques like live polls or interactive Q&A sessions where you invite questions from attendees mid-presentation instead of saving all queries until the end.

This gives you a chance not only engage but also address any misunderstandings right on spot.

Treat each question asked as an opportunity—it’s evidence someone has been paying attention. Even challenging questions should be welcomed as they demonstrate an engaged, thoughtful audience.
Encourage participation. It can be as simple as a show of hands or the use of interactive technologies for live polling during your presentation. This keeps your audience active and invested in the content.

Remember, your presentation isn’t just about putting on a show—it’s about meaningful interaction.

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Presentation Skills in Specific Contexts

Whether you’re nailing your next job interview, presenting an exciting marketing campaign, or delivering insightful educational content, the context matters. Let’s take a look.

The Art of Job Interviews

A successful job interview often hinges on effective communication and confidence. Here, the target audience is usually small but holds significant influence over your future prospects. Body language plays a crucial role; maintain eye contact to show sincerity and interest while open body language communicates approachability.

Bullet points summarizing key experiences are also helpful for quick recall under pressure. This allows you to present your chosen topic with clarity and positive enthusiasm without relying heavily on note or cue cards.

Pitching in Public Relations & Marketing

In public relations (PR) and marketing contexts, presentations need to capture attention quickly yet hold it long enough to deliver key messages effectively. Visual aids are valuable tools here—they help emphasize points while keeping the audience engaged.

Your aim should be highlighting presentation benefits that resonate with potential clients or partners, making them feel as though ignoring such opportunities would mean missing out big time.

Educational Presentations

An educational setting demands its own unique set of presentation skills where deep understanding trumps flashy visuals. You must make complex information understandable without oversimplifying essential details—the use of analogies can be beneficial here.

Keeping the audience’s attention is critical. Encourage questions and participation to foster a more interactive environment, enhancing learning outcomes for all audience members.

Tips for Becoming a Great Presenter

No single method is suitable for everyone when it comes to speaking in public. However, incorporating continuous improvement and practice into your routine can make you an exceptional presenter.

Tailor Your Presentation to Your Audience

Becoming an excellent speaker isn’t just about delivering information; it’s also about making a connection with the audience. So make sure that you’re taking setting, audience, and topic into consideration when crafting your presentation. What works for one audience may not work for another, so be sure to adapt your presentation styles according to the occasion in order to be truly effective.

The Power of Practice

The art of mastering public speaking skills requires practice —and lots of it . To become a great presenter, focus on improving communication skills through practice and feedback from peers or mentors. Try to seek feedback on every speech delivered and incorporate those pointers in your future presentations. Over time, this cycle of delivery-feedback-improvement significantly enhances your ability to connect with audiences and convey ideas effectively.

If you’re looking for examples of good speakers, our speech breakdowns on YouTube provide excellent examples of experienced presenters who masterfully utilize speaking techniques. Analyzing their strategies could give you great ideas for enhancing your own style.

Finding Your Style

A crucial part of captivating any audience lies in how you deliver the message rather than the message itself. Developing a unique presentation style lets you stand out as an engaging speaker who commands attention throughout their talk. Through — you guessed it — practice, you can develop a personal presentation style that resonates with listeners while showcasing your expertise on the chosen topic.

Your body language plays a pivotal role here: open gestures communicate confidence and enthusiasm towards your subject matter, two qualities essential for keeping audiences hooked. Similarly, using vocal variety adds dynamism to speeches by emphasizing points when needed or creating suspense during storytelling parts of your talk.

Cultivating Passion & Enthusiasm

Showcasing genuine passion for the subject helps keep listeners engaged throughout even lengthy presentations. Sharing stories related to the topic or expressing excitement about sharing knowledge tends to draw people in more than mere data recitation ever could.

Recognize that everybody is distinctive; don’t expect identical results from every speaker. The path to becoming a great presenter involves recognizing your strengths and working tirelessly on areas that need improvement.

FAQs on Presentation Skills

What are good presentation skills.

Good presentation skills include a clear message, confident delivery, engaging body language, audience understanding, and interaction. They also involve effective preparation and practice.

What are the 5 steps of presentation skills?

The five steps of presenting include: planning your content, preparing visual aids if needed, practicing the delivery aloud, performing it with confidence, and finally post-presentation reflection for improvements.

What are the 5 P’s of presentation skills?

The five P’s stand for Preparation (researching your topic), Practice (rehearsing your talk), Performance (delivering with confidence), Posture (standing tall), and Projection (using a strong voice).

What are your presentation skills?

Your personal set of abilities to deliver information effectively is what we call your presentation skill. It can encompass public speaking ability, clarity in speech or writing as well as visual communication talent.

Mastering presentation skills isn’t an overnight process, but practice and perseverance will put you well on your way to becoming an effective speaker.

You’ve learned that confidence plays a crucial role in effective presentations, so take deep breaths, make eye contact, and keep your body language open. As always, preparation is key. Tackle filler words head-on and get comfortable with visual aids for impactful storytelling.

Remember the importance of audience engagement — it’s all about understanding their needs and tailoring your content accordingly. This way, complex information turns into digestible insights.

Above all else: practice! After all, nothing beats experience when it comes to improving public speaking abilities.

Last Updated: May 9, 2024

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Questions to Ask Presenters

I. introduction.

Asking questions during presentations and panel discussions is crucial to getting the most out of these events. By asking the right questions, you can gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter and the speaker's expertise, challenge assumptions, and make meaningful connections with other attendees. This article is designed to provide you with a comprehensive guide to the types of questions you should be asking presenters and panelists, whether you are attending a virtual event or an in-person panel discussion.

Throughout this article, we will provide you with a list of great questions to ask, suggestions for creating your own questions, and tips for asking good questions that can help you stand out and make a lasting impression. We will cover a variety of topics, including the importance of follow-up questions, leveraging social media and apps, common misconceptions, and creating your own list of questions.

So whether you are attending a keynote speech, panel discussion, webinar , or podcast, this article will help you prepare for and make the most out of your next event. Let's start by exploring how to prepare for the presentation or panel discussion.

II. Preparing for the Presentation or Panel Discussion

Before attending a presentation or panel discussion, it is important to prepare yourself by researching the presenter or panelists and the subject matter. This will help you come up with questions that are relevant and insightful.

To prepare, you should start by researching the speaker or panelists on LinkedIn, their company website, or other social media platforms. Look for any articles, blogs, or videos that they have published, and get a sense of their background and expertise.

Next, consider the subject matter that will be discussed during the presentation or panel discussion. Do some background reading or research to familiarize yourself with the topic and any relevant industry trends or challenges.

Once you have done your research, create a list of questions that you would like to ask the presenter or panelists. Think about what you want to learn from the presentation or discussion, and what insights you hope to gain.

When considering the format of the event, whether it is virtual or in-person , think about how you can leverage social media and other apps to connect with the speakers and moderators. Follow the event hashtag on Twitter or LinkedIn, and engage with other attendees who are discussing the event. Use apps like LinkedIn or conference apps to connect with speakers or other attendees and continue the conversation after the event has ended.

By doing your research and creating a list of questions, you will be better equipped to engage with the presenters or panelists during the event. In the next section, we will explore the types of questions you should be asking presenters.

III. Questions to Ask Presenters

Asking good questions during a presentation can help you get a better understanding of the subject matter and the speaker's expertise. Here are some open-ended questions to consider:

What inspired you to pursue this field, and how did you get started?
What do you consider to be the biggest challenge facing your industry today?
Can you share an example of a successful project you worked on, and what made it successful?
How do you stay up to date with industry trends and developments?
What are some common misconceptions about your industry or field?

In addition to asking open-ended questions , it is important to listen closely to the presenter's responses and ask follow-up questions that can help you clarify any points made during the presentation. For example, if the presenter mentions a specific tool or technique, you can ask how it works or how it has been used in real-world applications.

To create your own questions, think about your interests and goals , and how they relate to the subject matter being presented. Consider how the presenter's expertise can help you in your own work or career, and tailor your questions accordingly.

When asking questions during a presentation, it is important to be concise and respectful of the presenter's time. Make sure your questions are relevant to the topic at hand, and avoid asking questions that are too broad or vague. By asking good questions, you can stand out from the audience and make a lasting impression on the presenter.

In the next section, we will explore the types of questions you should be asking panelists during a panel discussion.

IV. Questions to Ask Panelists

Panel discussions offer a unique opportunity to hear from multiple perspectives on a particular topic. Here are some tips on how to prepare for a panel discussion and the types of questions to ask:

A. Preparing for a Panel Discussion

Before attending a panel discussion, research the panelists and the topics they will be discussing. Take notes on their backgrounds and areas of expertise, and consider how their perspectives may differ from your own. This can help you formulate questions that will be relevant and thought-provoking.

B. Questions for a Panel Discussion

Some questions that are relevant for a panel discussion include:

What are your thoughts on the biggest challenge facing the industry or field today?
How do you think technology is impacting the industry, and what opportunities and challenges does this present?
Can you share an example of a successful collaboration or partnership within the industry, and what made it successful?
How do you see the industry evolving in the next 5-10 years, and what trends do you think will drive this evolution?
How do you balance competing priorities and demands within the industry, such as innovation versus risk management?

C. Follow-up Questions for a Panel Discussion

Follow-up questions can help you delve deeper into a particular topic or challenge a panelist's position. For example, if a panelist mentions a particular strategy or approach, you can ask how it has been used in practice, and what results have been achieved.

D. Creating Your Own Questions

Creating your own questions for a panel discussion can help you tailor your experience to your own interests and goals. Consider what questions you would like to ask each panelist based on their areas of expertise, and how their responses can help you in your own work or career.

By asking thoughtful and relevant questions during a panel discussion, you can gain valuable insights and perspectives, and demonstrate your engagement and interest in the topic.

V. Conclusion

In summary, asking questions during presentations, webinars , and panel discussions is an essential part of the learning and networking experience. By researching the subject matter, creating a list of questions, and following up with additional questions, you can gain valuable insights, deepen your understanding, and create a lasting impression.

Remember, the quality of your questions can impact the quality of the information and networking opportunities you receive. Asking open-ended and thought-provoking questions can help you stand out and create meaningful connections with the presenters and panelists.

So, start asking the right questions today! Whether you're attending a virtual event or an in-person panel discussion, take advantage of the opportunity to connect with subject matter experts, role models, and decision-makers in your field. With a little preparation and creativity, you can create a lasting impression and take away valuable insights and key takeaways from any event.

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50+ Questions to Generate Audience Participation

When it comes to presentations, one of the most important things you can do is get your audience engaged and participating. This can be a challenge, but with the right questions, it can be easy!

In this post, we will provide you with over 50 different questions you can use in your next presentation. These questions are broken down into different types, so you can easily find the ones that will work best for your needs, as well as slide deck recs for each type of question.

Introduction Questions

Using questions in an introduction to a meeting or presentation sets the tone for the rest of your time together. These questions can also give the speaker an idea of the expectations and wants of those in the audience.

While asking some of these questions to a group can quickly devolve into side conversations or serve as distractions, picking one or two of them and having the group answer on their phones can provide real insight. We suggest using the Meeting Kickoff slide deck to quickly ask the questions, get the audience participating, and set the tone for the rest of the meeting.

1. Who here has ever been to a meeting where they were completely lost within the first five minutes?

2. How many of you have some knowledge about the topic we're discussing today?

3. What is something you're hoping to come away with after this presentation?

4. What are you tired of hearing about on this topic?

5. What motivates you most to learn about this topic?

6. What can I do to make this presentation valuable to you?

7. If you aren't here due to work obligations, would you still want to be here?

8. How do you prefer to consume information on this topic?

9. Do you prefer presentations/meetings in-person or virtually?

10. What would help you focus for the rest of this presentation?

Word Cloud Questions

Another fantastic way to gauge what your audience feels or thinks about certain topics (while keeping them engaged and entertained) is through the use of word clouds. Unlike open-ended questions, word clouds allow an audience to answer a prompt and give a visual representation to the group on which answer is the most prevalent.

Word clouds are an excellent way to draw a group back in mid-meeting and gauge the mindset of your audience. Slides with Friends has a fantastic Word Cloud Game you can put together in a few moments to boost the participation in your next presentation.

1. How are you feeling right now?

2. Who has had the biggest influence on your life?

3. What person in our industry has had the biggest impact on your career?

4. What's something you're worried about professionally today?

5. What's something you're excited about professionally today?

6. What's one of the best ideas our company/group has come up with?

7. How would you describe our last month in one word?

Ice Breaker Questions

If you’re hosting a meeting with a smaller group that’s already comfortable with each other, meeting icebreakers can loosen tongues and generate conversation. These questions are also a bit more fun, perfect for easing into a heavier presentation.

Use our Meeting Icebreaker slide deck to start your meetings with a little bit of sharing and laughter. Setting the tone at the beginning of your meeting will keep the audience engaged throughout.

1. What’s your favorite tradition or holiday?

2. What fictional world or place would you like to visit?

3. What is your favorite time of the day? Why?

4. What's one routine that has changed how you work?

5. What's something about the co-worker/person next to you that you appreciate?

6. What's your biggest non-work goal right now?

7. What's something you're willing to share that we don't know about you?

This or That Questions

With larger groups, it can be even more difficult to grab and keep everyone’s attention, much less get the group to participate. The key to using questions with larger audiences is to keep the answers simple and easy to share.

One of our favorite ways of keeping an audience engaged with questions is with this or that questions. Or, as we call them at Slides with Friends, tea vs coffee questions. Our slide deck Tea vs Coffee was created to make engaging with big groups easier, but still fun.

1. Coffee or tea?

2. Hot or cold climate?

3. Pager or fax machine?

4. Train or plane?

5. Staycation or vacation?

6. Netflix or Amazon Prime?

7. Mountains or beach?

8. Macs or PCs?

9. Beer or wine?

10. Work from home or in the office?

Discussion Questions

Sometimes to generate audience participation, you need to let them do the talking. This is the concept that inspired the discussion questions we’ve put together. What are things people want to talk about while still staying on topic? What can you ask to get the group involved and engaged without derailing the purpose of the gathering?

With the Brainstorming Session Template slide deck, you can present your questions to the group and either have them answer aloud or through their phones. The key here is taking a step back and letting them lead the conversation.

1. What is the best advice you've ever gotten about your career?

2. What was your first job? How has it influenced your career now?

3. How have you seen your industry change in the past 10 years?

4. What is your favorite thing about your job?

5. What is the hardest thing about your job?

6. What are some of the biggest challenges you see in your industry right now?

7. What's one thing you wish was more efficient about your job?

8. What small change can we make today that will shift how we work long-term?

Exit Questions

We’d all love to think every single one of our presentations was a slam dunk, but we know that’s not true. One way to finish up strong and with appreciated audience participation is to ask how you did.

Use the questions below in our Project Wrap Up slide deck to find out how you did and what you can change for the next time you meet. The best way to improve audience participation is to give the group what they want. These questions will help you figure out what that ‘want’ is.

1. What was your favorite part of the presentation?

2. What are you going to do with what you learned today?

3. Who is going to help you implement what you learned today?

4. When are you going to start using what you learned today?

5. What's your plan for continuing to learn about this topic?

6. How would you rate the overall quality of the presentation?

7. What could we have done better?

8. Was the pace too fast, too slow, or just right?

9. Did you feel like you learned something new?

Silly Questions

And finally, just for the fun of it, here are a few of our favorite silly questions to ask the crew at your next Happy Hour Hang . Sure, these questions might devolve into laughter, but that still counts as participation!

1. How would you describe your job to a preschooler?

2. What would your entrance song be if you were coming out on stage?

3. What place in time do you think you'd fit in the most?

4. What do you think is the most overrated show or movie right now?

5. What fictional team (X-Men, Avengers, Justice League) is the best?

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Guide for Handling Questions after a Presentation

October 19, 2017 - Dom Barnard

The questions at the end of a presentation can be terrifying for many speakers as they can’t be controlled and are hard to prepare for. However, questions form an important part of the presentation for the whole audience as they allow for clarification and consolidation of learning.

The presenter can enhance the usefulness of the question and answer session by treating it as a formal part of the presentation that requires as much careful planning and control as the delivery of the core material.

Identify possible questions and scope in your preparation

The background work that you undertook whilst planning your presentation is the key to handling questions effectively and understanding what type of audience you’ll be faced with. If you have defined a focus for your presentation and have explored this thoroughly in your research and planning, you are more likely to be able to confidently respond to questions.

When planning your presentation, you will need to prepare prompts for questions that are open and straightforward, for example saying “That’s the end of my presentation. I’ll be taking questions for the next 10 minutes”.

You might also want to define topics for discussion before taking questions, by stating the areas you’re willing to field questions in. Your preparation will help you identify topics you are not confident with and want to avoid in the questioning.

Prepare for questions after the presentation

Set some rules for asking questions

At the start of your presentation, make it clear when you would prefer to deal with questions – as you go along or at the end of the presentation.

Some speakers prefer questions to be raised as they arise during the presentation. The advantage of this approach is that any misunderstandings can be dealt with immediately. However, there is also a danger that the question will disrupt or distract the speaker, or that questions are raised that would have been covered later in the presentation.

If you leave questions until the end, plan to leave plenty of time for questions so that the audience doesn’t feel rushed.

Framework for responding to questions

Answering questions under pressure can make you say things you shouldn’t have – the nerves can force you to give an inappropriate response. In your panic you might have misinterpreted the question or given away company information that was sensitive. Use the following framework to help you respond effectively to your audience.

Practice answering AI-generated questions on your speech or presentation with VirtualSpeech .

1. Listen to the whole question

You don’t have to answer a question immediately. Pause for a few seconds, actively listen to all parts of the question and think about the best way to answer.

Frequently questions can change direction at the last moment, particularly if the questioner is thinking on their feet. This can throw you if you have already started to prepare an answer. Remember that questioners will frequently try to make a point whilst asking their question – it’s therefore important to both hear the content of the question and try to decipher the questioner’s intention.

2. Understand the context

If you are worried that you haven’t understood a question, ask them to clarify what they mean. Check for confirmation by paraphrasing the question back to the questioner – “You want me to list the improvements of X?”.

3. Involve the whole audience

It is important to remember that even though you are taking a question from one member of the audience, you are still responsible for the interest of the other audience members. This is particularly important in large groups as the audience will become bored if the presentation descends into a series of one-to-one discussions.

To involve the rest of the audience, make sure the whole audience has heard and understood the question by repeating it or paraphrasing it to the audience.

4. Respond concisely

When you reply to a question, direct your answer to both the questioner and other members of the audience. Try to keep your responses as focused as possible, leaving space for other questions. To avoid going into too much detail, check back with the questioner to see if you have answered their query – “Does that answer your question in enough detail?”.

We’ll cover different ways to respond in a later section.

5. Allow follow-up questions via email

You can also encourage your audience to ask questions after the event has finished by providing your email address. This shows a high level of respect for your audience and implies that the topic still has much further scope for enquiry.

Two good resources for handling questions

What’s the art of answering a tricky question?
Dodging the Question

Practice Answering Questions

Practice answering questions after your presentation using a 4 step process. Learn More

Options for answering the question

There are five possible choices depending on how well you understand and can answer the question. It’s okay to say that you don’t know the answer to something. This can add to your credibility instead of trying to waffle through an answer you don’t really know.

If you have a good answer for the question from the audience, go ahead and answer it in a short and clear message.

Ask a question back the audience member, such as “Can you clarify what you mean by that”. You can also attack the question if it is not related to the issue, factually inaccurate, personal or based on false assumptions. Be careful with this method.

Ask the question back to the audience or pass it to another panel member if possible. If suitable, another technique is to imply the question has been asked already, with you stating you don’t want to cover old ground.

Tell the audience member you will talk to them after the event. This gives you more time to think of a good answer and there is less pressure to give a perfect answer.

Or mention that that point is coming up in a slide.

This involves answering the question but changing the subject. You can also give a partial answer or give a negative answer, saying that something else will happen instead.

Avoid answering questions that fall outside of the remit of your talk: “I’m afraid that really falls outside of my objectives for today’s presentation. Perhaps we can resume discussion of that particular point later?”

Framework for handling questions after a presentation

Diagram Explained : Once you receive a question, you’ll have a few moments to think about it and reframe it in a way that makes sense to you. This will give you five choices on how to react – you can answer, reflect, deflect, defer or change the scope of the question. Once you’ve answered concisely, you can then follow up to check if the person asking the question is satisfied and then continue with the presentation.

Strategies to use when struggling to answer

Here are some strategies to use when you are struggling to answer the question posed to you. For more information, read this article on Dodging the Question .

Acknowledge the question without answering it – “That’s a good question, let’s consider the impact by looking at…”
The question fails to tackle the important issue.
The question is based on a false assumption.
The question is factually inaccurate.
The question is too personal or objectionable.
Decline to answer. Refuse to answer on the basis that it is not your area of responsibility or it is sensitive company information – “You will have to ask [name] because I wasn’t involved in that particular project.”
Partial answer
Start to answer but change the subject
Negative answer. You state what won’t happen instead of what will happen
Answer a similar question
State or imply the question has already been answered – “We’ve already covered that topic”

Things to avoid

When handling questions and answers, you will still need to be as professional as you have been for the main delivery of your presentation. There are some common dangers to avoid.

Answering the question you wished you’d been asked

A common trick played by politicians, this strategy ignores the precise nature of the question and uses a predetermined answer to the broad topic area. If handled poorly, this technique is very obvious to the audience and frustrating to the questioner.

Giving a lengthy response

This is the process whereby you make a lengthy response, including all the information you’d left out in planning the main presentation. Your unplanned response will be unstructured and rambling, so keep things focused and brief. If you find yourself rambling, ask them to talk to you after.

Passing the blame

Passing the blame to others comes across as weak and evasive. If an idea from the audience is a good one, acknowledge its value. If it isn’t, make a polite rebuttal and move on.

Defensive answers

Occasionally, questions can really put you on the spot, but it is important to remain calm and in control. An aggressive or defensive reply will be seen as weakness on your part and will spoil the effect of an otherwise successful presentation.

Handling difficult questions

It is important not to start responding to a difficult question before you have thought about the answer. Repeating the question and asking for clarification will help create some space for your thoughts.

Sometimes you will need to think about a question for a moment before responding. You may be able to buy a little bit of thinking time to help focus your response. Useful strategies include searching for an appropriate visual aid to help focus your response or simply pausing for a moment or two to think. For even more time, suggest that you’ll come back to the topic later (but don’t forget to do this).

7 myths when answering tough questions during presentations

Sometimes questions are too difficult to answer. Don’t worry about admitting that you don’t know something or haven’t considered an alternative approach. An enthusiastic “That’s an interesting idea, I’d not thought of that” is much more positive than a mumbled “I don’t know ”. Remember that a presentation is a two-way process and it is important to show that you are learning from your audience as well.

Finally, you can come across a questioner who disagrees strongly with your argument. Although this can feel very awkward, remember that you are still responsible for the whole audience and that you cannot allocate all of your question time to one individual.

If you feel that you have answered the initial question, announce that you will move on and suggest that you might continue discussion after the presentation. If the questioner persists, assert your position calmly by saying “I’m afraid I need to move on”.

You can read more on this topic here: Responding to questions effectively (PDF)

10 Tips for a Persuasive Presentation

Powerful presentation is persuasion. here's how to elevate your impact..

Posted May 11, 2024 | Reviewed by Ray Parker

Presentations aim to effect change. It's essential to be clear about what change you want to see.
Powerful presenters embrace and extend empathy to seek first to understand their audience.
Substance and style both matter to create an audience-informed communication experience.
Persuasive presentations are relevant, reasoned, real, and resonant.

How many of us realize that giving a presentation or making a speech is all about persuasion , influence, and emotional intelligence ? Impactful presenters understand the power of empathy to understand and engage their audience, the efficiency and kindness of having a clear objective and message, and the importance of substance and style—all as a way to connect in a way that engages and inspires.

Much has been written on the power and behavioral science of persuasion, not least by expert Robert Cialdini. His bestselling book Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion explains seven research-based universal principles of influence .

From my experience as a leadership coach working with thousands of people worldwide, I have compiled a list of ten essentials to elevate our presentation.

1. Maintain an "other" focus. What do you know about your audience and how can you find out more? Ask yourself what kind of a speaker will appeal to your audience, what arguments are likely to resonate with them, and what feelings you want to inspire so the audience will positively respond to your ask. If your audience is predominantly data-driven, you may want to use more evidence-based arguments. If the audience is mixed, a combination of data, authority, and storytelling may be more appropriate. Extend Daniel Goleman’s three types of empathy to gather intelligence , understand your audience, and tailor your intervention to connect more profoundly.

2. Determine a specific objective: Presentations aim to effect change in some way. What change do you want to see in your audience? Every presentation aims to change the audience in some way. For instance, gaining their approval for a certain investment, soliciting their buy-in for a change, or creating a sense of enthusiasm for an idea or initiative. The purpose of a presentation is to bring about change so make sure you are clear on what kind of change you want to bring about.

3. Design a grabber: Our attention spans have shrunk as we have more and more competing demands on our attention . If you want to get someone’s attention you need to grab it at the outset and try and hold on. You can do this in a number of different ways. Throw out a question that demands a response from the audience. Give a surprising fact or statistic, or quote from a well-known figure. Tell a story or an anecdote. A good grabber captures the attention of everyone there, and makes them focus on what you have to say.

4. Crystalize your message and construct your arguments : Your message is the heart of your speech. Craft a brief phrase that clearly defines your proposal in 10-12 words. For example, “This post is about crafting presentations that inspire and engage others to elevate their presentations.” Make it memorable by choosing inspiring words, symbols, catchy expressions, something that will remain in the audience's mind. As Brené Brown says: “Clear is kind,” and a clear message provides a path to develop your ideas.

When you have a clear and concise message, it helps you formulate your arguments. Think of developing your arguments using the rule of three —three compelling arguments to convince but not overwhelm your audience.

5. Prepare a call to action: Remember, we want to change our audience in some way, so we need to make our ask in a clear and concrete manner.

Consider your call to action in terms of what you want your audience to think/feel/do:

Think—“I want you to think about how you can improve your presentations.”
Feel—“I want you to feel enthusiastic and motivated so that you can elevate your power to persuade.”
Do—“I want you to try out some of these tips and tools for yourself.”

6. Craft a memorable closing: Close the speech in an elegant and memorable way. We need people to remember what we've told them, so prepare it well. This is not the time to improvise. Try to connect your closing to your opening grabber, which makes the presentation more memorable. Good preparation means preparing everything to the very end—finish well.

7. Plan your delivery: A dynamic speaker draws listeners in by using vocal variety (tone, intonation, speed, volume, pace, pauses, silence) and body language (posture, gestures, expression, and movement) to highlight important points and hold the audience’s attention. Be intentional: How will you use your voice and your body to emphasize a thought or idea? Think about it: If you increased the time you spent on style or delivery by 20 percent, what would it mean for the impact you make?

8. Think about how you will engage your audience : You want the audience to feel considered throughout. Include pauses so they can process what’s being said; connect with individuals throughout the room and make deliberate eye contact while speaking, especially when delivering key points. Read and respond to the audience by changing how you deliver as you go based on the audience’s nonverbal communication .

9. Rehearse and Practice: Practice is one of the most crucial elements of presenting—and probably the most neglected one. If this is new to you start by reading your presentation in front of a mirror to get comfortable speaking your presentation. Next, video yourself and watch out for nervous or distracting habits to eliminate them and identify any areas where you can improve your delivery. If you are feeling brave, practice in front of an audience and ask for feedback.

10. Prepare your success rituals and mantra: Public speaking and/or stage fright can feel debilitating for some. Have your calm-down ritual prepared and ready to go before you start your presentation. This might be a certain gesture, a power pose, breathwork, or a mantra. Try this tip: Identify three adjectives to describe how you would like to show up during this presentation. This sets an intention and helps focus our cognitive and emotional resources on success.

Powerful presenters embrace and extend empathy to seek first to understand their audience. They use this intelligence to carefully make choices about substance and style to create an audience-informed communication experience that feels relevant, reasoned, real, and resonant and creates a pathway for change.

Palena Neale, Ph.D. , is a women’s leadership coach, lecturer, and founder of unabridged, a boutique leadership development practice.

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How to Present to an Audience That Knows More Than You

Deborah Grayson Riegel

Lean into being a facilitator — not an expert.

What happens when you have to give a presentation to an audience that might have some professionals who have more expertise on the topic than you do? While it can be intimidating, it can also be an opportunity to leverage their deep and diverse expertise in service of the group’s learning. And it’s an opportunity to exercise some intellectual humility, which includes having respect for other viewpoints, not being intellectually overconfident, separating your ego from your intellect, and being willing to revise your own viewpoint — especially in the face of new information. This article offers several tips for how you might approach a roomful of experts, including how to invite them into the discussion without allowing them to completely take over, as well as how to pivot on the proposed topic when necessary.

I was five years into my executive coaching practice when I was invited to lead a workshop on “Coaching Skills for Human Resource Leaders” at a global conference. As the room filled up with participants, I identified a few colleagues who had already been coaching professionally for more than a decade. I felt self-doubt start to kick in: Why were they even here? What did they come to learn? Why do they want to hear from me?

Deborah Grayson Riegel is a professional speaker and facilitator, as well as a communication and presentation skills coach. She teaches leadership communication at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business and has taught for Wharton Business School, Columbia Business School’s Women in Leadership Program, and Peking University’s International MBA Program. She is the author of Overcoming Overthinking: 36 Ways to Tame Anxiety for Work, School, and Life and the best-selling Go To Help: 31 Strategies to Offer, Ask for, and Accept Help .

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COMMENTS

160 Questions to Ask After a Presentation
Asking questions after a presentation is not just about seeking clarity on what was discussed. It's a golden opportunity to delve deeper, engage with the speaker, and enhance your understanding of the subject matter. But knowing which questions to ask isn't always straightforward.
350 Top Q&A Questions To Expect For Any Presentations
Q&A questions, short for "Questions and Answers", are inquiries posed by an audience or participants to the speaker or presenter during the Q&A session of a presentation. This Q&A segment typically follows a presentation, a talk or a lecture, providing the opportunities for the audience to seek clarification, ask additional information, or ...
Designing Slides That Don't Suck: 20 questions to ask before you
A person can only process about 1.6 conversations at a time. He can choose to either listen to you or read your slides. The other .6 gets split between emails, texts and interior monologue, to name just a few other channels. The dictators of any presentation include: audience, context, purpose and design. About your audience.
21 Questions To Ask Before Every Presentation
This post could easily have included 137 questions, but I've limited it to 21 questions you should ask before every speech or presentation. This article doesn't attempt to be comprehensive, so I hope you'll add other questions to the comments section. Here are 21 questions to ask before every presentation. QUESTIONS ABOUT LOGISTICS. 1.
How To Make a Good Presentation [A Complete Guide]
Apply the 10-20-30 rule. Apply the 10-20-30 presentation rule and keep it short, sweet and impactful! Stick to ten slides, deliver your presentation within 20 minutes and use a 30-point font to ensure clarity and focus. Less is more, and your audience will thank you for it! 9. Implement the 5-5-5 rule. Simplicity is key.
How to Nail the Q&A After Your Presentation
Beforehand, think through the types of questions audience members might ask. Put yourself in your shoes and ask yourself what concerns they might have about how your message impacts their job ...
Matt Abrahams: A Good Question Can Be the Key to a Successful Presentation
Polling questions make the audience part of your point. When asking your audience to respond to your query, be sure to signal how you want them to do so (e.g., model raising your hand as you ask your question, or explain how the online poll works if you are virtually presenting) and comment briefly on the response you get (e.g., "Just as I ...
Handling Questions and Answers
At the end of your presentation, if it is appropriate for the type of presentation, solicit questions from the audience. Responding to Audience Questions When someone is asking a question, make eye contact with that person, listen positively, and acknowledge by saying "thank you for that question," or say "that is an excellent question" or ...
The right questions to ask when planning your presentation
You can make a great presentation or a bad presentation with any tool. You have to ask yourself the right questions, so here's a list (borrowed from Garr Reynolds's must-read book Presentation ...
What It Takes to Give a Great Presentation
Here are a few tips for business professionals who want to move from being good speakers to great ones: be concise (the fewer words, the better); never use bullet points (photos and images paired ...
10 Questions to Ask When Creating a Killer PowerPoint Presentation
Explain how your idea (or product or service) can improve their lives or work. Be careful not to come off too hard sales-y, though. Keep your tone conversational, informative and friendly, not ...
How to Handle Questions During a Presentation
The second group, those who ask questions because they want to know more, are to be celebrated. They're a good thing. Honestly. Remember, people only ask questions if they care. The very fact that they're asking questions is a great thing because it shows you did the key thing a presentation is supposed to do - you got them interested.
90 Questions to Ask After a Presentation
Ask open-ended questions that invite the presenter or audience members to share thoughts and perspectives, thus fostering a more interactive dialogue. Final Thoughts And there you have it—a comprehensive guide to quenching your intellectual curiosity and contributing valuable insights after a presentation.
8 tips for encouraging questions in your presentation
Here are 8 tips to help make them through: 1. Pitch your presentation at the right level for your audience. The first stage of questions is birth - they have to be born in your audience's mind. If your presentation is too simple for the level of knowledge in your audience - it's all material they've covered before - they won't ...
6 questioning tactics to use in your next presentation
Ask open questions. Questioning, with a view to increasing engagement, becomes even more effective when you use open questions - especially good if you're using a word cloud polling tool. Open questions prompt your audience to consider their personal opinions and beliefs in their response, bringing them closer to the subject matter and ...
The 10 steps to asking questions so you get an answer every time
Here are the 10 steps for asking questions in a presentation which will help you avoid being left hanging. 1. Warm up your audience first. Comedians warm-up their audiences - or if they're stars - they have another comedian do it for them. You also need to warm up your audience first.
How to Handle Questions and Answer Sessions During Presentations
4 Schedule your Q&A session. The majority of Q&A sessions take place at the end of a presentation, but sometimes they happen in the middle. Then again, maybe the speakers right before you invited people to ask questions all throughout their presentations. Tell your audience up front when the Q&A session will take place.
14 Practical Tips to Improve Your Presentation Skills
Instead, aim to maintain eye contact between 50% of the time during presentations. This commonly accepted "50/70 rule" will help you exhibit adequate confidence to your audience. If stage fright has gotten a hold on you, take deep breaths before you start speaking in order to stay calm.
Questions to Ask Presenters
In addition to asking open-ended questions, it is important to listen closely to the presenter's responses and ask follow-up questions that can help you clarify any points made during the presentation. For example, if the presenter mentions a specific tool or technique, you can ask how it works or how it has been used in real-world applications ...
50+ Questions to Generate Audience Participation
This can be a challenge, but with the right questions, it can be easy! In this post, we will provide you with over 50 different questions you can use in your next presentation. These questions are broken down into different types, so you can easily find the ones that will work best for your needs, as well as slide deck recs for each type of ...
Questions to ask yourself when preparing a presentation
Ask yourself how much time you will have to deliver and what notes , technology or other assets you will need with you when presenting. If it is a virtual presentation, ensure you are familiar with the platform that you intend to use. Run through what you intend to say and make certain you can comfortably fit it within the timeframe provided.
How To Answer Questions After a Presentation (With Tips)
2. Ask others what they might ask after your presentation. A beneficial way to determine the questions your audience might have is to ask individuals you know who are similar to your expected audience what their questions are about your topic. Consider discussing potential questions with people you know who work in a similar field or position.
Guide for Handling Questions after a Presentation
1. Listen to the whole question. You don't have to answer a question immediately. Pause for a few seconds, actively listen to all parts of the question and think about the best way to answer. Frequently questions can change direction at the last moment, particularly if the questioner is thinking on their feet.
10 Tips for a Persuasive Presentation
Tell a story or an anecdote. A good grabber captures the attention of everyone there, and makes them focus on what you have to say. 4. Crystalize your message and construct your arguments: Your ...
How to Present to an Audience That Knows More Than You
Summary. What happens when you have to give a presentation to an audience that might have some professionals who have more expertise on the topic than you do? While it can be intimidating, it can ...
Welcome to the Purdue Online Writing Lab
Mission. The Purdue On-Campus Writing Lab and Purdue Online Writing Lab assist clients in their development as writers—no matter what their skill level—with on-campus consultations, online participation, and community engagement. The Purdue Writing Lab serves the Purdue, West Lafayette, campus and coordinates with local literacy initiatives.