Public speaking can be a lonely activity, but it doesn’t have to be. If you can get your audience to help “carry the load,” the job becomes much easier, and often a lot more fun. This does not mean that you hand over the steering wheel, but you give the audience a chance to participate,
for the benefit of all.
Show your audience early on that you intend for them to participate. Ask a question designed to get their hands up. It could be something like, “Give me a show of hands. How many of you enjoy learning about new cultures through travel?” When you see many hands go up, you know that you are not alone, AND the audience feels a sense of belonging.
.Then you might ask, “Would anyone tell us about a favorite place to visit and why?” Make sure you pause long enough for someone to answer, and when they do, give them positive reinforcement. “That sounds wonderful! Thank you for sharing.”
This shows the audience that it is safe and enjoyable to participate. Now you are off and running, leading the audience where you want to take them, while they willingly help carry the load.
