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Unit19

Maybe you could try thinking of possible

questions beforehand.

Jade: Oh Luke, I really had a hard time during the last part of my presentation! I really have
trouble handling questions!
Luke: I don’t think it was as bad as you think. I did notice that you hesitated on a couple of ques-
tions.
Jade: Really! I’m so relieved!
Luke: Why were you shook up? Do you feel inept when handling questions?
Jade: I get nervous since I don’t know what they will be throwing at me.
Luke: I see. You have a bit of difficulty when it comes to thinking on the spot.
Jade: Exactly! Sometimes, I even have trouble understanding the question properly.
Luke: Well, comprehension is the key to properly answering a question.
Jade: That’s right. I ask the person to repeat the question or I take a few moments to understand
the question.
Luke: It’s actually preferable if you repeat the question to make sure you got it right.
Jade: I see. What can I do about my trouble about thinking on the spot?
Luke: Knowing your expected audience could help you think of possible questions beforehand.
Jade: That’s a good idea! Maybe I could ask a colleague to help me think of some questions.
Luke: Right! Of course, you will still probably get some questions you haven’t thought of.
Jade: I understand. But, at least I’ll be having a little more practice before the real thing!
Luke: Practice does make one more prepared. Just don’t panic and get your thoughts in order.
Jade: I guess the most important thing is just to know my topic well, right?
Luke: That’s right. Nobody was born an expert on handling questions; you just need more expe-
rience.
Jade: Thanks a lot! You were such a great help. I feel better now.
Luke: No problem! I’m glad to assist in any way I can.

1. How should you react when you cannot comprehend the questions?

Sample answer:
If I cannot comprehend the questions, I should remain unruffled and simply ask the
person to expound on or repeat the question. The audience also judges the speaker
on how he handles questions so I have to appear competent and authoritative.

2. What attitude should a presenter have when negating?

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