People often ask what to do when they’re speaking after a strong presenter.
“What if I am not as good?”
“What if the audience think the previous speaker was superior?”
“What if they hate me?”
“Can I just hide?”
Two thoughts to help you.
Firstly, there is nothing you can do to impact the performance of the previous speaker.
They might be good. They might be great.
You cannot change them, so worrying about them is not worthwhile.
Better to focus your energy on how you respond.
Have an opening line that tells the world you are up for it.
Secondly, take a moment to realise…it’s not a contest!
(Unless you are in a formal pitch, debating tournament or an election).
The audience can be impressed by the previous speaker and you.
The two are not mutually exclusive.
It’s perfectly feasible that the audience leaves the room thinking all the speakers were very good.
So, try to benefit from the momentum of the previous speaker.
If they performed well, the audience is already warmed up.
Start strongly, and you can claim a dividend from their performance.
Stand-up comedy is a clear example of this in action.
I remember the first time I followed an awesome comedian.
I had to pick up the mic from the wonderful Raul Kohli.
He had smashed the gig.
I was nervous.
But it turned out to be easier than my previous sets.
Contrast that with the time I followed a comedian who bombed – I won’t name them.
Their jokes fell flat.
They insulted the audience.
They ended up arguing with someone in the crowd.
I walked on to a disgruntled room and it was my worst gig by miles!
So, if you have a strong speaker before you:
- Have your own strong opener – content and delivery
- Ride the momentum they created
A strong speaker before you isn’t a threat, it’s a head start.
Looking for more helpful presentation tips, why not check out the following article on mastering the perfect pre-record.
