Now that you’ve captured the audience, you have to maintain their interest. This can take different formats:

• Problem/Solution: This is commonly used when introducing a product or innovation, using the Monroe Sequence: Draw attention, Establish need, Satisfy need, Visualise future, Take action. You identify the problem as something the audience wants to solve, then present the solution as well as simple ways of implementing the solution.
• Interaction: This can be embedded into the first approach. You can engage an audience by demonstrating, for example, a thinking bias that you will solve.
• Gimmicks/Visuals/Props: If you are using PowerPoint, do not read your slides line by line, but use it to enhance rather than make the point. If you are using props - lights and sound can help. Don't act unless you are ready to pull it off, to prevent your audience from feeling embarrassed on your behalf.

• Walk the stage. It is good to get a feel for the stage because it means you can establish a sense of ownership of the space, which will increase your confidence.
• Check the equipment to avoid minor mishaps.
• Know where you are sitti...