HANDLING HOSTILE AUDIENCES

How do you gain a positive response from people who disagree with you?

• Establish goodwill.Let them know that you are concerned about the issues you're discussing.
• Start with the areas of agreement.Develop some common ground before you launch into controversial terms.
• Offer principles of judgement.Determine the basis on which you and your listeners can evaluate ideas.
• Develop positive credibility.If your listeners respect you,they are less likely to reject your ideas.
• Use experts and supporting material to which your audience will respond.Choose your supporting material with your audience in mind.
• Disarm your listeners with humor.Mutual laughter establishes positive rapport.
• Use a multisided presentation.recognize more than one perspective on the issues.