It can feel really intimidating when you’re at the front of the crowd. You’re alone up there. Vulnerable. 

And you’re not alone in feeling all alone when you’re presenting.

But, even if you’re presenting solo – you’re not actually alone. Not at all. Those people out there – in the crowd, on their side of the screen, in the audience – those are your people!

They are there with you, so make sure you’re engaging them. Make them part of your presentation. Include them.

They’ll be more likely to stay interested in what you’re saying + you’ll feel better, when you have them along for the ride.

Here are some easy ways to engage your audience:

Use your voice! Use inflection + avoid speaking in monotone + use a range in volume + pitch to show emotion, which will invoke emotion in others. 

Move and smile! Move your face + show different facial expressions + move your body to show your energy + enthusiasm.

Share a story! Humans are storytellers by nature. We love storytelling! We want to hear an opener + we definitely want to know what comes next so, a story is a great way to make your audience lean in.

Ask a question! Get them involved by asking for a show of hands: “Who here has done this…?” or “Can I get a show of hands? Who here has ever…?”. Get them talking by asking for a positive response: “Can I get a ‘heck yes’?” or “Can I get an ‘amen’?”. And ask them questions throughout your presentation – not just at the end. Not only will this keep them in it with you, but the best way to help people is by asking what they need or want.

Let’s recap! Here are some easy ways to engage your audience: use your voice + facial expressions + body movements + share stories + ask questions!

Remember – if you want them to show up for you, you need to make darn sure that you’re showing up for them.

–Kahla