Tips on Public Speaking: Unresponsive Audience

Today I experienced something that still rocks me even after speaking for over ten years – an unresponsive audience.

I was in Las Vegas, NV, thinking this is a city that likes to have fun, enjoy themselves. I was all prepared to have everyone in the room rocking and rolling. I began my presentation and I was shocked.

For those of you who have attended my Presentation Template Intensive, my workshops and other presentations – you know that I love to incorporate audience participation. I believe that audience participation, making sure the audience is included in the seminar, is a key ingredient to a successful presentation.

Here I was in Las Vegas ready to have fun. The room was set up with two tables, seven people per table. A nice size gathering for my corporate speaking. I began my presentation as usual… using my interactivity techniques. And to my surprise – no one participated, no one was answering my questions. I do have to say that one table was making a little noise but the other table not a word from them.

At this silent table was a particular individual; they had an expression on their face as if they were eating sour pickles. It was not going good.

And I have to admit to you, even after speaking for ten years, this threw me: their unresponsiveness and this person. I got all up inside my head: Do I change my style? Should I stop asking questions? Do I lay low and wait till later? I was driving myself crazy.

Let me share with you how I responded to this situation and this makes up our tips on public speaking.

I reminded myself of this: I am here for the people that want to be here. I cannot allow a few people to sway me. After years of doing it my way, getting glowing evaluations and fantastic testimonials from my corporate clients as well as those who attend my events – I reminded myself that my technique works.

I recommend every speaker start using this: when you hear this “big” tip you are going to think what a small idea. Well, it was this small idea that has helped me in many different speaking engagements. I would love to know what you think of this technique as well as your own suggestions about dealing with unresponsive people. Leave a comment below.

Thank you, Maurice