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Handle difficult questions with grace and confidence from "summary" of The Art of Public Speaking, PowerWeb and Topic Finder by Stephen E. Lucas,Susan M. Zaeske
When faced with challenging questions during a presentation, it is essential to respond with composure and self-assurance. Rather than becoming flustered or defensive, maintaining a sense of grace and confidence can help you navigate through difficult inquiries effectively. One strategy for handling tough questions is to stay calm and composed. By taking a moment to collect your thoughts before responding, you can ensure that your answer is coherent and thoughtful. This approach demonstrates to your audience that you are in control of the situation and capable of addressing any concerns that may arise. Confidence is another key component when addressing difficult questions. Even if you are unsure of the answer, projecting confidence can help you appear more credible and trustworthy to your audience. By speaking clearly and assertively, you can convey a sense of authority and expertise, even when faced with challenging queries. It is also important to listen carefully to the question being asked. By actively listening to the concerns of your audience members, you can better understand the root of their inquiries and provide more relevant and meaningful responses. This demonstrates to your audience that you value their input and are willing to engage with them in a meaningful dialogue. In addition, being open and honest in your responses can help you build trust with your audience. If you are unsure of the answer to a question, it is better to admit it rather than provide a false or misleading response. By acknowledging your limitations and being transparent in your communication, you can foster a sense of authenticity and integrity that resonates with your audience.- Handling difficult questions with grace and confidence requires a combination of poise, self-assurance, active listening, and honesty. By embodying these qualities, you can effectively address challenging inquiries and maintain credibility and trust with your audience.
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