[Solution] Organizing Presentations to Connect With Audiences
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Author: Sarah Bennett
Good speakers use a number of verbal and nonverbal techniques to connect with their listeners. You can build this rapport by including effective imagery in your speech, supplying verbal signposts, and using body language strategically.
Identify the effective imagery technique employed in the following sentences.
Starting a new company is similar to watching a newly planted garden grow.
- Analogy
- Personal anecdote
- Metaphor
View Explanation
An analogy is an explicit comparison of similar traits between seemingly dissimilar things. A metaphor is similar but is stated implicitly without using words such as like, as, or is similar to.
The first time I gave a speech, I was shaking so badly that the front row of the audience began to laugh.
- Metaphor
- Analogy
- Personal anecdote
View Explanation
Avoid abstractions, generalities, and dry facts. Instead, enliven your presentation and enhance comprehension by using personal anecdotes.
Identify the verbal signpost.
Let me review the major points we discussed today.
- Switching directions
- Summarizing
- Previewing
View Explanation
This is an example of summarizing. Effective speakers help their listeners recognize the organization and main points in their message by using verbal signposts. Verbal signposts that can help listeners stay on track include previews, summaries, and transitions.
Read the scenario, and answer the question.
You are attending a public speaking workshop. After each speaker delivers their speech, the class is required to offer feedback so the speaker can improve. The last speaker kept their hands glued to their sides.
What advice would you give?
- Animate your body
- Punctuate your words
- Move from behind the podium
View Explanation
Be enthusiastic, and let your body show it. Use a variety of natural-looking gestures.
After determining your purpose and analyzing the audience, you are ready to collect information and organize it logically. Good organization and intentional repetition are the two most powerful tools in ensuring audience comprehension and retention.
When creating the introduction of a presentation, which of the following should be your goals? Check all that apply.
- Use a compare/contrast pattern
- Get the audience involved
- Introduce yourself and your credentials
View Explanation
If you are able to appeal to listeners and involve them in your presentation right from the start, you are more likely to hold their attention until the finish. Avoid banalities such as It's a pleasure to be here or Today I'm going to talk about… Instead, capture listeners' attention and get them involved, identify yourself and establish your credibility, and preview your main points.
Mabel wants to keep her audience engaged but fears they will focus too much on her. Mabel can use .
View Explanation
Give your audience something to look at besides yourself. Use a variety of visual aids in a single session. Be careful of handouts as the audience will most likely read those instead of listening to what you have to say.
