Recently I was in a sales training and I thought to myself “In the future, I could see myself doing this.”

If you find yourself in a situation like that, take the opportunity to identify what you liked and did not like about the experience. This is valuable information for if/when you find yourself on the opposite side of the table.

To Do:

1. Get Specific – When people ask you a question, “Say x happens, what do I do now?” Ask for an example so you can gain context and give a better answer. Value dies in vagueness.
2. Engage your audience – After 4 hours the average persons brain goes to mush. Add in brain teasers, fun activities and especially a physical activity after lunch! Call on people, and give them time to answer your questions.
3. Groups – One measurement of success for speakers is how much ownership the audience takes on. Whether that be ownership of the idea, a mindset or new methodology. Break into small groups to practice frequently, have them paraphrase in their own words.
4. Share stories – One of the best way to make a point is through funny and relevant stories.
5. Evaluate – Have your audience rank themselves on certain skills before and after to show improvement.

Not To Do:

1. Be a smart person who doesn’t care about other people.
2. Be rude/make enemies.
3. Ask a question and not give the participants enough time to answer.

I found this exercise to be particularly valuable. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for when I get to experience something that I may want to do in the future. I encourage you to do the same.