How to Make Any Guest Feel Welcome

Whenever I give a presentation, I always hope my audience has come of their own free will.  Speaking as I do on historical figures and leadership usually means that my audience has some interest in the subject on which I am about to speak.  It’s very gratifying to have audience members nodding or smiling to affirm my ramblings.  My presentations are always interactive.  Whether I am speaking to adults or a youth group, I encourage audience members to contribute questions or comments at the end of the presentation.  These discussions can get very lively, and I feel it is what makes the performance unique.  

 
Over the years, I have come across people in many audiences.  They tend to fall into categories.  Here are a few ways I have come to facilitate these guests at my programs. 

Monopolizer / Expert

As I mentioned, I begin presentations assuming my audience is looking to learn.  Sometimes, an audience member is so excited about a subject; they want everyone to know either how much they love history or how much they know about the subject of the program.  Once I begin a presentation, it takes a few minutes for me to learn that I have landed a “partner” in my presentation.  While I appreciate the fact that these people love history as much as I do, it makes it difficult to continue a “group” presentation. 

   

I have found that in order to bring the discussion back to the group, and not a one-on-one conversation, I have to find a way to support that audience member.  I never want to shut them down.  After all, they came to see me!  By moving on to another question or comment, while at the same time referring back to the comment your overzealous audience member may have contributed, you support them, and bring the presentation back to the rest of the audience.

Deer in the Headlights 

People can get really passionate about history and politics.  Some of my presentations are about U.S. presidents.  These programs initiate great discussions.  Sometimes I know an audience member is following along, just waiting for the opportunity to contribute something worthwhile to the conversation.  They have the point they want to make, wait patiently for their turn to speak-- I call on them-- and…deer in the headlights.  They are either overcome with shyness, or whatever they were going to say completely flies out of their head.  My heart goes out to them. 

   

I have found that helping them save face, and putting them back into their “safe zone” can go a long way to help a temporary memory lapse or stage fright.  Never dismiss them.  They obviously had something say, so as you move on, periodically refer back to them.  It might help jog their memory so they’ll feel comfortable enough to add a thought or two to the discussion.  They’ll secretly thank you!

Runaway Train

Were you ever in the midst of making a great point, but someone really wants to add something to the conversation right now!!  You think-- I’ll let them make their point and then finish my thought.  You call on them, and they begin talking.  Suddenly…RUNAWAY TRAIN!!!!  They have careened completely out of control and have lead the conversation in a different direction.  Sometimes that direction has nothing to do with your next point. How are you going to get from point A to point B and get the train back on the track? 

    

Again, always be supportive and don’t dismiss the comment.  Sometimes, they are aware they’re rambling, but they have absolutely no idea how they got there or how they can get out-- quick!  Other times, they don’t realize it, and it’s your job to help the other audience members get back on track.  You don’t want them to feel as if they are “interrupting” a one-on-one conversation.  Most importantly, be sure to follow up with your “runaway train” after the presentation to be sure you have answered any questions they may have had, or to give them the opportunity to finish making their point.

These are just a few of the audience types I have experienced over the years. I think the most important piece of information I can give a speaker is to be sure your audience knows you are in control of the presentation.  Even with interactive presentations, if your audience feels you are in control, they can relax and know that if they want to contribute, you won’t leave them hanging.  You won’t let them fly without a net!  Remember, as I mentioned before, audience members are your guests.  Treat them with the same respect and attention you would guests in your home, and you’ll be sure to see them again.