Not Done Yet

Great presenters understand that the presentation doesn’t end with the “presentation”. True, you’ve made it through most of the hard stuff, and the reception couldn’t have been better. Congratulations!

Don’t get cocky.

You still have to get through what could be a grueling session of Q & A in which you will have to be charming to the uncomprehending members of your audience and prepared for the whiz kids who may know as much – or more – than you do. The presentation isn’t over until you’ve finished with your Q&A. This means that you’ve got to stay on your game if you want them to be talking about this tomorrow. The Q&A is kind of like an encore at a rock show. It’s your chance to take the presentation to a whole other level. It is also an opportunity to squander your greatness for mediocrity.

It’s Not Over Until it’s Over

For most presenters – mediocre ones – the presentation is over when the “presentation” ends. Unfortunately for them, this is usually just the beginning of a disaster. You’re not finished until you are finished. You must put as much thought into your Q&A as you have put into everything else. Don’t ruin all your hard work by thinking that the Q&A can be a no-brainer. A well planned Q&A can actually transform an average presentation into a memorable one.

Save a Story

Don’t plan on answering every question from everyone in the room. Try to root out a few general questions that will clarify the presentation or the PowerPoint for everyone. After taking three to five questions, sum up with one more great story that you’ve saved until the end. Make it motivational. Inspirational. Memorable. If there are more questions your audience will be dying to talk to you one on one after your amazing finish!

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