Ed. note: Latest in a series. Read the prior installment here.
As we continue our journey through “Lights, Camera, CLE: Making Your Presentation a Blockbuster,” we’ve covered the essentials of preparing for a successful CLE presentation and engaging your audience like a pro.
In Part 3, we’ve focused on how meticulous preparation and dynamic audience engagement can set the stage for a memorable and impactful presentation. But even the most well-prepared presenter will face challenges — whether it’s the nerves that surface before stepping onto the stage or the unexpected technical hiccups that can throw off your rhythm.
In this article, we’ll tackle how to manage these inevitable obstacles with grace and professionalism.
From staying calm under pressure to dealing with difficult audience members, we’ll equip you with strategies to keep your presentation on track and ensure that your CLE remains a standout performance, no matter what challenges arise.
Turning Stage Fright Into Stage Might
Even the most seasoned presenters experience nerves. It’s natural to feel a rush of adrenaline before speaking, but the key is to channel that energy into a confident, compelling delivery.
Remember, you’ve prepared meticulously, and your audience is here to learn from you. You are the Expert!
Staying Calm Under Pressure
• Preparation is Power: The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel. Rehearse your presentation multiple times, focusing on the flow, transitions, and key points. Familiarity with your material is your best defense against nerves.
• Visualization Techniques: Before stepping up to present, take a few moments to visualize success. Imagine the room filled with engaged, attentive listeners. Visualization can help calm your mind and boost your confidence.
• Controlled Breathing: Practice deep breathing exercises to calm your nerves. Inhale slowly for four counts, hold for four, and exhale for four. This simple technique can lower your heart rate and help you feel more centered.
When Technology Takes Center Stage
In our tech-driven world, even the best-laid plans can go awry. Whether it’s a malfunctioning microphone, a glitchy slideshow, or a lost connection, technical issues can disrupt your flow and rattle your nerves.
But remember, it’s not about avoiding problems — it’s about how you handle them.
Strategies for Managing Tech Glitches
• Tech Rehearsal: Always do a full run-through of your presentation with all the equipment you’ll be using. This includes testing microphones, projectors, slides, and any other tech you plan to incorporate. Identify potential issues ahead of time and have a backup plan.
• Stay Composed: If something goes wrong, stay calm. Acknowledge the issue without letting it derail your presentation. For example, if your slides stop working, continue speaking while the issue is being resolved, or invite your audience to discuss the topic at hand.
• Backup Plan: Always have a contingency plan. This could mean having printed handouts of your slides, a backup device with your presentation, or being prepared to switch to a discussion format if tech fails entirely.
When the Audience Becomes the Challenge
Not every audience member will be on your side, and sometimes, you’ll face interruptions, challenging questions, or even disruptive behavior. The key to handling these situations is to remain professional, composed, and assertive.
But beyond just managing difficult interactions, your authenticity can be a powerful tool in creating a genuine connection with your audience.
Handling Difficult Interactions with Professionalism
• Set the Tone Early: At the beginning of your presentation, establish ground rules for participation. This sets expectations for behavior and shows that you’re in control of the room.
• Acknowledge, Don’t Argue: If a difficult question or comment arises, acknowledge the person’s point, and then steer the conversation back to your main topic. For example, “That’s an interesting perspective, and while it’s not the focus of today’s discussion, I’d be happy to chat about it afterward.”
• Be Authentically You—Always: Authenticity isn’t just a fallback when you don’t know the answer; it’s a strength that can enhance your entire presentation. From the moment you step in front of your audience, being genuine builds trust and rapport.
If a question stumps you, it’s perfectly fine to say: “That’s a great question. I don’t have the answer right now, but let’s take it offline, and I’ll get back to you.”
This not only shows humility but also opens the door for continued conversation after the CLE.
More importantly, being authentically you throughout the presentation fosters a connection that makes your audience more receptive and engaged, turning potential challenges into opportunities for deeper interaction.
Keep Cool and CLE On
Mastering the art of staying calm and handling challenges not only ensures that your presentation runs smoothly but also leaves a lasting impression on your audience. Your ability to navigate obstacles with grace and professionalism sets you apart as a speaker who can handle any situation with poise.
In our final article of this series, we’ll focus on the importance of closing your CLE with a compelling conclusion that leaves your audience with clear takeaways and a desire to engage with you further. We’ll also explore how to maintain momentum after the presentation ends, ensuring that your impact continues long after the session is over.
Managing Nerves Like a Pro:
✔️ Prepare Thoroughly: Rehearse your presentation multiple times to build confidence and familiarity.
✔️ Visualize Success: Use visualization techniques to calm your mind and boost confidence.
✔️ Practice Controlled Breathing: Use deep breathing exercises to manage anxiety before presenting.
Handling Technical Issues:
✔️ Conduct a Tech Rehearsal: Test all equipment ahead of time and have a backup plan in place.
✔️ Stay Composed During Glitches: Address the issue calmly and keep the presentation moving.
✔️ Prepare for the Worst: Have contingency plans ready, such as printed materials or backup devices.
Dealing with Difficult Audience Members:
✔️ Set Ground Rules: Establish expectations for audience behavior at the start of your presentation.
✔️ Acknowledge and Redirect: Address challenging questions or comments without getting sidetracked.
✔️ Be Authentically You: If you don’t know the answer, admit it, and suggest following up after the CLE to continue the conversation.
By mastering these techniques, you’ll not only overcome challenges but also deliver a CLE presentation that’s memorable for all the right reasons.
Sejal Bhasker Patel is a Rainmaking Consultant and Author of Rainmaker: Unleashed — a sharp, strategic playbook for attorneys who don’t fit the traditional mold. She’s the founder of Sage Ivy, a consulting firm that works directly with law firms and attorneys to turn relationships into revenue — without selling their soul. Her work is blunt, tailored, and built on one core belief: Authenticity isn’t a liability — it’s your strongest competitive edge.
www.sageivyconsulting.com