This past May I had the privilege of speaking at a convention in Dubai. It was an unusual experience and I had a wonderful time. This gig tested some of my social skills, particularly my ability to adapt to an audience from another culture. I made a couple faux pas, nothing serious, but I did make sure to find out about my audience so I could adapt my style. I didn’t act fake, but I did change a few things. For one no audience participation!
Usually, I include at least one exercise and a few interactions during my talks. Not this time. In fact, the one and only time I did ask for a show of hands of anyone who plays golf nobody raised their hand! (There were definitely golfers in the audience.)
The talk was a success. Got great reviews and the client was pleased. Had I ignored the type of audience I was speaking to and acted like I do with most of my talks it would have been a failure. Everyone was friendly but also reserved, so I knew I had to tone down my playful actions.
No two audiences are the same. Even at your company. When you’re speaking to a group of mechanics, there is going to be a different mood than when you speak to the office staff. Keeping this in mind and adapting your style slightly can make a big difference in how successful your safety presentations turn out.
’till next time.
Richard Hawk
