How to Deal with Interruptions in Public Speaking

Three Methods:Interruptions from the AudienceTechnology BreakdownsGeneral Disruptions

One of the challenges for a speaker is that they are often interrupted by questions, comments, heckling, etc. Below are some of the techniques that you might want to consider.

Method 1
Interruptions from the Audience

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    For questions from the audience: If the question is related directly to the topic that you are talking about, consider answering it on the spot. If it is a vague or general question, let the participant know that there will be a Q&A session later.
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    For heckling or skeptical audiences: Acknowledge that there may be different opinions on the subject. You might want to discuss any controversies in your introduction so that the audience knows that you are aware of what they may be thinking. Let them know that you will be happy to discuss any controversy at the end of your speech.
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    Consider asking the audience to take a moment to turn off or turn down their mobile phones. If a mobile phone does ring during your talk, think in advance of how you'd like to handle it. Some speakers talk through it, some wait, and some will confront the person with the phone.

Method 2
Technology Breakdowns

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    Plan and prepare so that you have a backup plan. For example, if you are going to do a PowerPoint slide show, make sure that you have several backups of the presentation along with an alternative plan, such as a printed exercise for the class to work on.

Method 3
General Disruptions

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    Tell the event organizer to be aware of loud talkers or other disruptive individuals. Get the organizer to deal with it so you don't have to risk losing your composure. You can also use the non-verbal "stop sign" where your palm is thrust towards the interrupter.

Tips

  • You may have to experiment with several of these techniques, depending on the situation. Trust yourself to respond in the moment, rather than trying to memorize the exact response for a situation.

Sources and Citations

  • Speak, by Rudolph F. Verderbe, Cengage Learning, 2013.

Article Info

Categories: Public Speaking