How to handle a question-and-answer session after your next speech
Often your speech will be followed by a Q&A session. People may ask for clarification or more information or question the validity of your comments. Indeed, when you speak to persuade or to stimulate action, questioners might even challenge your assumptions, offer opposing views, or attempt to undermine your credibility. The Q&A session can be a trying ordeal for the inexperienced speaker, so it is important to become skilled in fielding questions by following these guidelines...
1. Display confidence from the start.
You can't afford to relax when your formal presentation is over; be prepared for a lively series of questions from your audience. Give the impression that you are looking forward to this session and, with self-assurance, ask: 'Now, who has the first question?'
2. Start the ball rolling yourself, if necessary.
If you have a reluctant or reticent audience, the first question is sometimes slow in coming. You may need to 'prime the pump' using such strategies as:
- Pose your own question: 'A question I'm usually asked is…' or 'Before the meeting, the chairperson posed an interesting question…'
- Before your speech, pass out index cards so listeners can jot down questions that arise during your speech. Ask for short questions, printed clearly, so that you can respond to them in turn from the lectern.
- Arrange with someone before the speech to ask the first question; you don't have to provide the actual question.
3. Repeat the question.
For a large group, this allows everyone to hear the question. It also allows you to see if you really understand the question and provides you with a little time to frame your response.
