Scheduled to speak after the coffee break…or worse, after lunch?
You’ve drawn the slot every speaker dreads – the graveyard slot!
But don’t worry, there’s an art to getting it right.
Allow me to explain.
You see, at the start of an event there can often be much fanfare before the first speaker begins.
There is music playing.
There is anticipation in the audience.
The speaker gets formally introduced.
There is a round of applause.
All of this gives the speaker a fair chance of making a decent start (although not a guarantee!).
This sort of build-up, however, is less common after a break.
If you are this speaker, please realise that initially you need to work harder than the opening speaker to get the same result.
Assume that all the momentum from the earlier session has gone unless you revive it.
And be aware that even if you sense a positive energy in the room, it is probably due to the conversations they are having.
You still need to bring them into your presentation.
After coffee or lunch, too many speakers simply arrive without a trace.
So, if you’re ever in this slot, here are two things to do:
Firstly, give extra energy to your delivery for the opening minute or so.
Really go for it. Set the tone.
Secondly, in your mind, act as if you are the first speaker of the day.
Start fresh. Reset the room.
Do everything in your power to banish that ‘here we go again’ feeling.
Because if you can win the room after the coffee break or lunch.
You can win them anytime.
Every great speaker knows how to revive a tired room.
It’s not luck or charisma; it’s awareness, energy, and intent.
So next time you get the graveyard slot, smile.
It’s your chance to prove just how good you really are.
For more helpful presentation tips check out the following article on Audience Killers – stopping the silence before it starts…
