Mastering Interruptions

Interruptions can occur at any time during your presentation, and they have the potential to derail your focus and disrupt the audience's engagement. While these moments are unpredictable, the way you handle them can make all the difference. Here, I’ll highlight four common interruptions and offer strategies for managing them effectively.

A Phone Rings

When a phone rings during your presentation, you have a couple of options. You can choose to ignore the interruption by simply averting your gaze from the source and physically moving as far from the issue as possible. Never break stride with your presentation; continue as though nothing happened. This approach allows you to maintain your rhythm and composure. 

Alternatively, you can respond to the interruption. This takes quick wit. You don’t want to embarrass the person whose phone rang. Consider your topic and immediately relate the call to the topic. For example, if you're speaking about maintaining a close relationship with Jesus and a phone rings, you might say, “Wow! Now that’s a close relationship. Better get that. It might be Him!” Always let wisdom guide your response.

A Medical Emergency

Be reassured that your crisis response team is trained to handle such situations. If the emergency appears serious, or you believe it will take some time to move the person to another location, stop your service and pray. Make no comments. Mention no names. You could assure the audience that the situation is under control, then use your ten second rewind and ease back into your message without comments like "Where were we?" Just reengage with, “Remember, you just heard the words of...”

Your Microphone Stops Working

Pause momentarily and double check the "mute" button. Avoid referencing any technical errors, and never make any statement about your tech team. Have a plan ready to seamlessly transition to a handheld microphone or another backup option. Maintaining your professionalism is key to keeping the audience's trust and attention.

A Missing Computer Graphic

If a graphic doesn't appear as expected, refrain from mentioning its absence. The audience is blissfully unaware unless you point it out. Proceed smoothly while giving your tech team time to troubleshoot the issue. Never critique the tech team or their efforts publicly; focus on maintaining a seamless experience for your audience.

Final Thoughts

You could likely add countless other examples of interruptions, but remember the core principle: nothing formed against you will prosper! Even if you momentarily lose the attention of those nearest to the disturbance, your role is to bring them back as quickly as possible without increasing the interest in the interruption. Most interruptions can be disregarded entirely, allowing you to continue speaking with confidence.

Keep in mind, you're in charge of the moment, the thermostat setting the room's temperature for how the rest of the audience will accept the interruption. Handle each situation with poise, and you’ll guide your audience through any disturbance with grace.