How to Master the Segue in Public Speaking
Use a joke., Change your tone., Stop and start.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Use a joke.
Sure, it might be the oldest trick in the book, but it still works.
A carefully selected bit of humor can easily transition your audience from one topic to the next – even if those topics seem completely unrelated. -
Step 2: Change your tone.
This segue style is effective if the tone or mood of the two topics are dramatically different.
For example, if you were presenting a problem (or bad news), and now you’ll present the solution (or the good news).
It might sound something like this: "OK, we’ve covered the dismal reality of last year’s final numbers but enough doom and gloom – let’s now look at the bright future that we are in the process of creating."
Perhaps the easiest way to transition is to simply let the audience know that this section is complete, and ask if there are any questions before we move into the next topic. "That concludes the technical part of today’s demonstration.
Are there any questions before we begin talking about sales strategies?" -
Step 3: Stop and start.
Detailed Guide
Sure, it might be the oldest trick in the book, but it still works.
A carefully selected bit of humor can easily transition your audience from one topic to the next – even if those topics seem completely unrelated.
This segue style is effective if the tone or mood of the two topics are dramatically different.
For example, if you were presenting a problem (or bad news), and now you’ll present the solution (or the good news).
It might sound something like this: "OK, we’ve covered the dismal reality of last year’s final numbers but enough doom and gloom – let’s now look at the bright future that we are in the process of creating."
Perhaps the easiest way to transition is to simply let the audience know that this section is complete, and ask if there are any questions before we move into the next topic. "That concludes the technical part of today’s demonstration.
Are there any questions before we begin talking about sales strategies?"
About the Author
Kelly Butler
Kelly Butler has dedicated 4 years to mastering accounting. As a content creator, Kelly focuses on providing actionable tips and step-by-step guides.
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