We’ve all seen presentations – benefits and otherwise – where one or two attendees do all the talking while the rest of the group is silent.

Here are four proven techniques for getting non-talkers involved in discussing their benefits.

1. Re-direct questions

When only a few people ask questions about the material, give a brief reply and then turn the question over to the rest of the group.

Example: Ask attendees to name some situations where they’d use a flexible spending account.

2. Use role-playing scenarios

Role-playing scenarios boost participation two ways. They enliven discussions of otherwise dry topics. And, by dramatizing issues, you get the group involved emotionally.

For instance, this technique is extremely effective in discussing FMLA and HIPAA privacy with supervisors at your firm.

3. Write comments down

You may want to write down participants’ comments on a marker board or chalkboard.

This validates people’s contributions and subtly pressures other attendees to offer insights or questions of their own.

4. Turn silence to your advantage

Many presenters rush to break silences in the room. But filling the silence with your own response robs the group of a chance to take over the discussion. The silence may seem uncomfortable, but you don’t always have to be the one to let attendees off the hook.
 

People often just need time to consider their comments. If no one responds after about 30 seconds, rephrase the question.

Tags: Communication, employee education