Wenbin – very true.

MsSheepy – I felt your pain when I used to teach. Technical terms are often overlooked in all sorts of speeches.

Lisa – Thanks for the link. Very interesting.

Jeremy – Sometimes, there are times when jokes are inappropraite (at a funeral, for example) but a little humor can sometimes wake up a “dead” audience.

Terry – These are some great tips (as always). Thanks for sharing.

James

This is generally why I suggest using humor over jokes; humor always makes the presenter seem more approachable and human, while jokes are hit and miss.

Humor usually occurs when telling stories, revealing one’s foibles or spontaneously from what’s happening in the moment. I ALWAYS encourage clients to include humor.

Jokes should not be attempted unless the speaker can consistently make people life in conversation AND the joke is clearly related and connected to the topic. After all, there is only one criterion for success. And if it bombs, everyone in the room knows it.

Still, while jokes do sometimes fall flat, this is another opportunity to connect with your audience! Instead, of letting the awkward silence throw you off, turn it on its head by noting that your joke was a flop with a smile. Talk about the audiences reaction and note the atmosphere. Handling the situation like this if the joke bombs will often make the presenter seem cool, collected and approachable, and if the joke doesn’t bomb, this will lighten up the room and once again make the presenter seem approachable. It is a win-win as long as the situation is handled correctly.

Thanks for the post!

The worst thing a speaker can do is show embarrassment or chagrin. We just have to move forward as though it’s no big deal!