Ep. 162 Delivering to a Tough Audience

We all want a great audience, and most of the time, that’s what we get. However, sometimes we must face a tough crowd…unsmiling, stone-faced, and seemingly disengaged. What do we do? Today Darren talks with Mark  about a recent experience with a tough audience. Using lessons they both learned from being in that situation, they share common speaker mistakes and break down strategies for identifying and connecting with a tough audience. SNIPPETS: It’s not if, but when you will face a tough audience Some audiences don’t emote; not emoting doesn’t mean not enjoying Focus on serving your audience, no matter what happens Identify and address their top three frustrations and pet peeves Use before rapport to understand the atmosphere, mood and environment By failing to research you can create your own tough audience Avoid investing all your time trying to win over a few disengaged attendees Focus on those who are engaged Create a strong connection early Be willing to get physically close to the audience