Top 10 Interruptions

Here are ten of the most common types of interruptions during live or virtual presentations:

·     Technical Issues: You or your audience struggling with audio, video, or connectivity, often leading to requests for troubleshooting or repeats.

·     Off-Topic Questions: Individuals asking questions that aren’t directly related to the topic at hand, potentially derailing the flow.

·     Clarification Requests: Asking you to go back or elaborate on specific points, which can be helpful but may disrupt pacing.

·     Comments on Background Noise: Mentioning sounds in your background or their own environment, distracting everyone briefly.

·     Disruptive Feedback (Echo, Background Noise): Unmuted mics or feedback loops can create noise, pulling attention from the presentation.

·     Side Chat or Comments in the Chat: Participants may hold whispered side conversations live or in the chat, causing others (or you) to become distracted.

·     Arrival of Latecomers: People entering mid-session can disrupt flow, especially if they need catching up.

·     Premature Attempts to Leave: Some may signal they’re ready to go, whether by asking about the time left or visibly packing up in a live setting.

·     Sharing Personal Opinions: Audience members might share anecdotes or viewpoints that are tangential, pulling focus from your message.

·     Distractions or Reactions (Laughter, Gasps, Surprise): Unexpected responses to certain points can shift focus and lead to questions or tangents that break the flow.

Any common ones here you repeatedly run into? How did you handle them? Share your comments below. 👇

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