Ever found yourself in front of an audience, be it during a presentation, a coaching session, or while leading a group, only to realize they’ve checked out? Their eyes glazed over, phones in hand, clearly wishing they were anywhere but there. It’s a presenter’s nightmare, but it’s also a pivotal moment that can transform the energy of your session—if you handle it right. Here’s what I mean:
Acknowledge the Elephant in the Room
The most powerful tool at your disposal is also the simplest and perhaps the most overlooked: acknowledge what’s happening. Yes, it feels awkward to admit you’ve lost their attention. It’s not easy to stand up on stage and ask for everyone to “look alive,” but it’s effective because it’s unexpected and honest.
I’ve stood on many stages and faced the sea of distracted faces, subtle yawns, and glows of smartphones. It’s in these moments that I’ve learned to lean into the embarrassment, pause, and address the situation head-on.
A loud clap to break the trance, followed by a light-hearted, “Hey, you guys are looking a little dead out there. Let’s liven up!” can dramatically shift the atmosphere.
The Instant Reset Button
Once you’ve got their attention, it’s crucial to do something with it. This is not about scolding or lecturing, it’s about resetting. I often ask everyone to stand up for five seconds. Just five seconds to stretch and wiggle around to inject energy back into the room.
This pause also serves another purpose: it allows you, the speaker, to reassess and adjust your approach. Maybe the content wasn’t connecting, or perhaps the delivery needed more dynamism. Whatever the case, this moment is a chance for you to recalibrate and align more closely with their needs and expectations.
Setting New Expectations
After the brief interlude, it’s important to clearly articulate the expectations for the remainder of the session. A simple, “Let’s agree: no phones, no naps, just engagement,” can set the tone. Incorporating humor here works wonders, as it acknowledges the shared reality in a light-hearted way without assigning blame.
Why It Works
This approach works no matter the size of your audience. Whether you’re speaking to one person or a thousand, the effect is the same because it hinges on basic human psychology: people respond to direct engagement and unexpected shifts in routine.
By acknowledging the disengagement and inviting participation in a non-threatening way, you bridge the gap between presenter and audience, creating a more interactive and lively session.
Ready to Get Serious About Your Speaking Business?
If you’re curious about what it will take to grow your speaking career, or you’re looking to refine your personal brand and presentation skills further, consider scheduling a Free Brand Call with Brand Builders Group. We help individuals like you become the go-to experts in their industry.
At the end of the day, the best presentations are dialogues, not monologues. When your audience is fading, remember to engage and reset the energy. Do that and you’ll find that your message resonates more deeply than ever.
