REMEMBER: Audiences have very different expectations in different cultures. Knowing what your audience expects from the presenter is critical to successful presenting. When preparing and planning presentations for specific audiences, you should considerthe following:
INVOLVEMENT FACTOR::
Interaction: Some audiences simply want to listen and not contribute. Role of silence: Some audiences use silence to communicate agreement, not hostily. Interruption: Some audiences espect to be able to interrupt. Human touch: Some audiences like to see the personality of the presenter. Puntuality: Most audiences respect punctuality. Formality: Some audiences see informality as a lack of professionalism. Animation: Some audiences prefer a reserved style to over-enthusiatic presenters. Level of Analysis: Many audiences have in-depth specialist knowledge.
ORGANIZATION FACTOR:
Systematic: Some audiences prefer an organic style to rigid structure. Support: Some audiences don't want a lot of visuals and handouts. Digression: Some audiences see digression as irrelevant.
BODY LANGUAGE FACTOR: Hands: Some audiences view hand(s) in pockets as sloppines. Eye contact: Some audiences feel uncomfortable without the eye contact. Dress: Some audiences work in companies and cultures with strict dress codes. Body: Some audiences expect a presenter to be a dynamic. Face: Some audiences look for animated facial expressions.
DELIVERY FACTOR:
Language: Some audiences have limited English vocabulary. Reading text: Some audiencex favor spontaneity over precision. Voice: ALL audiences need sufficient volume and a suitable speed.
SOCIAL FACTOR:
Names: Some audiences prefer family names to first names. Business card: Some audiences will request a business card. Host thanking: All audiences expect business courtesies. Be polite. Hierarchy : All audiences respect social and corporate hierarchies.
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