When the audience knows more than us!

One of the biggest problem for public speakers is that they don’t know how to present when the audience knows more than them and don’t get nervous. It is an advanced presentation and they have to be more careful.

Analyzing which level the audience is in has a unique effect on the way the presentation is going to continue. (Read “audience analysis“)
I also suggest you read “how to talk to strangers?” to learn how to know your audience.

It is a delicate situation to present for an audience that knows more than you. It is going to be an advanced presentation, and you have to very careful not to become stressed. There are some tips to start an advanced presentation:

1- Do not attend an advanced presentation if you don’t have to

In an advanced presentation, the audience knows more than you and comments and disagrees with you.

Talking about a subject that the audience already knows it can be boring for them. This way, they believe they are allowed to speak and comment and sometimes even disagree with you. Then try not to have this kind of presentation until you are forced to do so.

But sometimes you have to present to your professors at the university. It is an obligation, and you can’t get away with it. Then what should you do?

2- Especial and up-to-date information

Find some reliable sources and introduce these resources as reference. Sadly, many people are not into learning new things, and they are not up-to-date. You can do well by using unique and latest news to impress them.

3- Ask a question

You have to ask the audience for some ideas. They know as much as you do and maybe even more. So it’s a good idea to ask them: “I wanted to see what do you think about this matter? What is your idea?”
It can help us remember everything we wanted to share and lower our tension and stress.

Ask questions in your advanced presentation to lower your stress.

4- Reference and sources

Every single content must have a reliable source. If someone disagrees with you and comments, you have to ask them where that idea has come from? And who said that information?
Sources can increase our credibility, and it’s beneficial to say what we exactly have read or seen.

5- Be ready for an advanced presentation

You have to prepare yourself when the time comes for the audience to ask you some questions.
Find common questions and their answers. Search for some reliable books and websites to refer to when your audience needs a logical and correct answer. You can lower the pressure you are taking in by referring to other sources.