Prepare for the Unexpected.
Not every question can or should be answered on your conference. Whether the question requires more information from another individual or is deemed inappropriate, you and your team should have a plan for addressing the question after the conference. For example, “That's a great question, Bill. I would like to have more time to discuss this with you off line. I have your contact information, and I will get back with you by the end of the week.”
Provide Positive Closure to Each Exchange.
Make sure you have addressed your participant's question properly. For example, “Thanks for the question, Catherine. May I help you with anything else?”
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Always Identify Yourself.
To avoid confusion, remember to state your name before answering the participant's question, especially if you are one of several speakers answering the question.
Prioritize Your Q&A.
Provide a prioritized list before your conference, and your conference support specialist will address listeners' questions according to your list. If you are uncomfortable with allowing questions from certain participants, please inform us before your conference begins.
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Address Participants One on One.
Practice your conversational skills by addressing participants by name. This will make you more approachable and will encourage other listeners to ask questions.
Prepare “Back-Pocket” Questions.
Planned questions can help you change the tone or regain control of your presentation. Introducing questions not yet asked by one of your listeners can also reinforce your message points. For example, “While we're waiting for more questions, I'll share with you one of the questions I'm commonly asked....”
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Offer Concise Answers.
Short but informative answers keep listeners' attention and help ensure your presentation stays focused.
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State Your Appreciation.
Wrap up your program by thanking the audience members for their questions and comments. Offer additional resource information to your participants.
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