Presenting to Gain Input

One of the most common and critical types of business presentations is the presentation to gain input. Rather than being a one-way delivery of information, this presentation seeks involvement from the participants and relies on getting productive outcomes to move processes forward. By its nature, this type of presentation requires flexibility on the part of the presenter, and a willingness to allow the process to unfold without dominating the discussion with our own opinions. In planning a presentation to gain input, carefully consider the people who will attend the meeting. Who is my audience?
Knowledge of the topic
To gain input, you typically include participants with a thorough knowledge of the topic. Sometimes, however, you want an audience that has little or no experience with the topic, as in focus groups or market research.
Previous experience with the topic
Does your audience include individuals who have had a range of experience with the topic? How have they reacted, positively or negatively? What specific examples do you know?
Level of preparation required for the meeting
If you are looking for informed input, you may need to ask your participants to do pre-work for the meeting. Consider what they may need to bring with them to the presentation in the way of documentation, homework, research, or planning.
Individual bias concerning the topic
Are you aware of bias for or against your topic? Does this audience include individuals who either champion this topic or who are antagonistic toward some aspect of it?
Attitudes of open-mindedness and cooperation
Review the individuals participating in the presentation. Do they include people who are open about exchanging their ideas and opinions? Are there participants who are reluctant to speak up? Will this audience cooperate with your agenda and purpose?
Degree of detail preferred by participants
Some audiences want only the basics about the topic under discussion. Others need more details before they are willing to express themselves. Consider preparing levels of detail from broad to specific that you can bring into the discussion as needed.
Supporting evidence needed to present the topic
Present basic evidence in the body of your presentation. Be prepared to reveal additional evidence in response to questions and requests for clarification.
What's your favorite way to gain imput from your audience? Let us know!
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