Sometimes you have an important message to share — but they aren’t going to like it…
There are many situations where you might need to deliver an unwelcome message. Maybe it’s a downsizing or reduction in hours, coming up short on sales goals, or even a business innovation that does not yet have support in the organization.
You may be dealing with a captive audience; compelled to attend your talk by company policy or their managers. Or you may be facing senior leaders in the company. But you already know that your audience is not inclined to think about the issue the way you do. So, now what?
If your goal is to open or even change their minds — what is the best way to achieve this?
Here are 8 persuasive speaking tactics to turn-around a hostile audience:
- Activate their emotions by telling a poignant or compelling real life story that supports your message.
- Break the tension with a genuine, spontaneous story about yourself.
- Ask your audience for their opinion. Really listen and empathize with their answers to show that you understand their concerns.
- Never respond defensively; never go on the attack.
- When appropriate, use humor.
- Find an ally. Is there someone in the audience who appears engaged, perhaps evening smiling or nodding? Direct your remarks to them at first. Sometimes, one person opening up can shift the mood of an entire room.
- Diffuse hecklers. If anyone heckles you, respond respectfully and then invite them to discuss any concerns with you after the presentation.
- Stay calm. There will be times when an audience is against you and you cannot change it. Remember to keep your integrity and self-respect intact.
What are your tactics for being persuasive and handling a hostile audience?