Communication for Influence 2023

P I V O T

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TIPS - PREPARE

Tip 1 Know why and what you’re doing • If you have a good mindset (purpose, mindfulness, observing self) you will be able to adapt and respond with grace. Tip 2 Timing • Budget minimum 25% of your total time to the Q&A session. • Make it interactive throughout if you can. • Don’t give in to the temptation to get caught up in the flow of your presentation or go over time. • You will get more information out, and in a more digestible format, during Q&A.

Tip 3 Make a list of potential questions (and answers)

• As you prepare, keep in mind the audience and what they’re looking for. • See things from their perspective. What questions might they have? • First, brainstorm at least 5-10 key questions (depending on the length of your presentation). • Then, prepare answers to them. Keep the answers short and direct. Tip 4 Keep some slides in reserve - specifically for Q&A • Ever write a presentation and find that some slides go into too much detail and detract from the flow of the presentation? • Don’t throw them out. Keep them on hand for the Q&A session. • When a question comes up that is more in-depth, pull out your prepared slide and look like an absolute ace for having the information ready!

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