When we’re speaking and look out into the audience, imagine how great it would be to recognize who in your audience will be your ally and who might have an inclination to become a heckler.
When I speak to an audience the first time I appear at an organization I isolate those who might be the typical trouble makers. They want to get attention, you remember the class clown when we were young? Well, they rarely grow out of it.
What I do is target a couple of people and involve them in my presentation. I might ask one to pass out the handouts, another to decide the best exit strategy and then be responsible in case we were to have an emergency and need to leave the facility quickly or even to make sure I know when someone has a question.
That will typically eliminate most of the interruptions during my presentations. But if not, I will physically involved the offenders.
Here’s how I recognize the potential offenders. They might have a very large upper lip. That will make them more prone to want to control every environment they’re in. If they can’t control the situation, they become disruptive. So I give them a sense of responsibility.
Look for the squared off chin. These people seem to be aggressive, but will be your ally when you prove your worth to them.
Another trait is the wider jaw line making their face nearly square. These people love to be in charge, so give them something to be in charge of when you’re the speaker.
Sharyn Abbott 