When we find out that we need to give a talk, address a group of people or deliver a speech or presentation, the first thing that would normally pop into our mind would be to prepare information related to the “Topic” or “Subject”, but it is equally important to know to “Whom?” Who is your target audience and whom will you be dealing with? Get the following information to get you even better prepared for your next presentation.
1.WHO
Find out the age group, level of knowledge, culture, demographics and profession of your listeners and how they will use your information. Useful to know also if they have any affiliation with any clubs, departments in an organisation etc.
2. HOW MUCH
How much information do they already have on the subject? Determine how else you can give them vital information which they don’t already know. Was there an issue about the subject matter to which they might be asking or need answers?
3. EXPECTATIONS
What are they expecting? Do they want to know more about one area more than another? Are there any points specifically which they are after which you must deliver? Would you want to meet their preconceived expectations or exceed them?
4. EMOTIONAL FACTORS
Are there any significant events that have occurred which may be of relevance to your presentation? Eg. Management crisis, a huge increase in sales, the retirement of a beloved leader etc. Take into consideration such factors which may help you get started on the right foot.
5. THE PAST
Find out who may have spoken, in the past, on a similar subject, to the same audience. Find their message, their approach and perhaps the occasion in which the presentation was given. This will enable you to include information that may not have been covered before.
Preparing ourselves with this additional information will give us even more confidence, knowing that we have taken into consideration the needs of our listeners. So take a little bit more time, to find out beforehand or have the foresight to know these points if you don’t have complete audience details at hand.
