Presenter Mistakes: Keys to Connecting, Not Exposing

In a coaching course, where participants were men and women, an instructor had to teach us better commercial techniques. However, at one point in the course, some situations occurred that, in retrospect, could have been handled very differently and from which we can learn valuable lessons.

The Risk of Exposing and Lack of Professionalism

The instructor called a man to the front, and instead of guiding him correctly to the answers he wanted to hear, he began to corner him and expose him in public. He pressured him with one topic after another, and upon not hearing what he wanted to hear, he continued asking questions. Once the interrogation was over, he extended his hand and sent him back to his seat. The audience felt uncomfortable seeing the tension created.

The next turn was for a woman. He did the same as with the man, pressuring her to get information. The difference was that, after the interrogation, before letting her sit down, he asked her for a hug to "end the questions." It is not correct to make differences between men and women in the professional field. The implication was that, because she was a woman, she got a hug when he should have extended his hand, just like he did with the man, to whom he did show professionalism when saying goodbye.

Assertive Communication: Key to Respect and Participation

One of the main presenter mistakes is to expose people in public. This is not the best choice. You can guide with your questions to get an answer, but not make people uncomfortable when there are others present. Most people stop participating when they feel exposed.

I have mentioned other times that correcting someone in public is not the most appropriate. Relationships wear down, and people have negative reactions when someone else makes their mistakes public. Instead of fixing the problem, this action will surely cause the person to block or become defensive.

Guide with Care: Demonstrate Leadership and Professionalism

It is very important to be careful with the way you address others. Aim to always do so in a positive way; make them see the mistakes they are making subtly and assertively. If it is necessary to do it more directly, it is crucial not to do it in public. Make a note to address it privately and not expose them in front of others.

To be a good presenter, it is essential not to ridicule anyone in front of others. Nor is it good to make distinctions in treatment based on gender, or to put your authority before others as a show of power.

Do you want to engage your audience? Take these details into account!