No matter how prepared you are, at some point you will encounter the proverbial “tough crowd”. Sometimes it’s an actual crowd, but more often it’s one person. He’s the person who doesn’t pay attention, who flips ahead in the deck, or who holds a side conversation while you’re presenting. Here are some tips on effectively managing “the tough crowd of one”.
1.Doesn’t pay attention: Assuming you are indeed an engaging presenter, casually walk in their direction or shift the focus of your conversation to their general area while you are presenting. Your proximity will usually cause them to focus on you.
2.Flips ahead in the deck: This is my pet peeve. There are 2 options.
1.Present using a projector. This eliminates the need for handouts. Hand out the deck at the end of the presentation, if necessary.
2. Only provide copies of the key slides at the point in the presentation when you are discussing the topic. He can’t flip if he only has 1 sheet of paper.
3.Talks while you’re presenting: Ask “Do you have a question?’ You can also address this with the silent treatment. Stop talking until everyone in the room is looking at you. At that point, continue where you left off. This can be very effective.
As the saying goes, there’s one in every crowd. Now you know how to handle him.
What's the Value of Reciting an Easter poem?
If you grew up in a church where children participated in Christmas and Easter programs like I did, then my question resonates with you. What is the value of reciting an Easter poem? Well, as one of those children and now as a parent, I fully recognize several benefits.
1 - Memorization: Its important for children to expand their mental abilities via memorization. The process of memorization helps them to determine their learning style. Each of us has our own technique that works best. As a college student, when I had to memorize a large body of work, I would pace in circles around my papasan chair reciting the information. My daughter rewrites the information she has to learn in her own handwriting.
2 - Self Confidence: One thing that was never lacking in my church was encouragement for children. There's no better way to build self confidence than to offer praise for the effort regardless of the outcome. Anyone who has spoken in front of a group recognizes the courage it takes. Reciting an Easter poem helps to build that confidence.
3 - Development of Public Speaking Skills: Effective Public speaking is the gift that keeps on giving. Children who are given the opportunity to practice public speaking skills do not tend to suffer from the public speaking fears many adults face today. Opportunities to speak in a non threatening environment such as a church sets the expectation that speaking in front of a group can be a positive experience.
Over the last year, I have had the opportunity to judge 5th grade 4-H speeches at my children's' school. I have been impressed with their preparation, memorization and confidence as they delivered their speeches. This valuable experience will serve them well. There is definitely value in reciting an Easter poem or any other work. This is all a part of the foundation that we build upon as adults.
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