People often ask me whether telling a joke during a presentation is a good idea. While jokes can be an effective way to connect with an audience, they come with risks. Audiences are unique, and their reactions can vary widely. When a joke falls flat, it can derail the entire presentation.
For this reason, I generally advise against using jokes in presentations. The challenge is that presenters have no control over how the audience will respond. Instead, I recommend focusing on having fun during your presentation. Unlike jokes, which rely on delivering a punchline and expecting a specific reaction, having fun doesn’t depend on audience feedback. When a speaker genuinely enjoys sharing a story or laughs at a situation, it creates an inviting atmosphere. This approach allows the audience to relax and enjoy the moment without feeling pressured to respond. Meanwhile, the presenter remains in a positive mindset, regardless of how the audience reacts. So, instead of aiming for a perfectly executed joke to engage your audience, focus on enjoying yourself. By shifting from relying on laughter to fostering joy, you create a welcoming space where the audience feels comfortable connecting with you and your message. Author: Bri McWhorter © Activate to Captivate, LLC Comments are closed.
|
Categories
All
AuthorBri McWhorter is the Founder and CEO of Activate to Captivate. Archives
February 2025
|