Reserve Tank

19 May Reserve Tank

When presenting on a topic, most speakers focus on the content. But that’s not the whole megillah. When you are effective, you will likely get questions after your close. How and what you say at this point can make all the difference.

However, when you’ve expended so much energy on delivering a talk, the mind and body are wired to shut down and recover when you finish. (When we present, we have about 45 minutes of adrenaline before we can’t remember our names!) Even so, you must keep something in the tank so that you have the mental and physical fortitude to perform well after the formal presentation.

Rehearse with “If-then,” as in “If they ask me this, then I’ll respond with…” Take a deep breath and shift into a lower gear– more collaborative, thoughtful, and open. Allow the body to relax, but keep your attention and focus sharp to avoid a crash and burn.