681: The Way to Handle Q&A, with Matt Abrahams

Coaching for Leaders

Matt Abrahams: Think Faster, Talk Smarter

Matt Abrahams is an educator, author, podcast host, and coach. He is a lecturer in Organizational Behavior at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business and a keynote speaker and communication consultant for Fortune 100 companies. He is the host of the popular podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart and the author of Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You’re Put on the Spot*.

One of the most common places leaders get put on the spot is when facilitating a question and answer session. In this episode, Matt and I discuss the mindset, preparation, and steps that will help you answer questions with confidence and increase credibility with your audience.

Key Points

• Many presenters think about a Q&A session like playing dodgeball. It’s more helpful to frame it as dialogue.
• Answering questions well allows you to project authenticity, expand on key points, and resolve objections.
• Use the ADD framework to respond to a question. A: answer the question, D: detail an example, and D: describe the value. If helpful, adjust the order.
• Set boundaries for the kinds of questions you’ll answer and the timeframe for them. The audience expects you to lead the conversation.
• Ask yourself a question if nobody else asks one first. This might start with, “A question I’m commonly asked…”
• End with an exclamation point. Sticking the landing provides you confidence and shows credibility to your audience.

Resources Mentioned

• Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You’re Put on the Spot* by Matt Abrahams

Interview Notes

Download my interview notes in PDF format (free membership required).

Related Episodes

• The Way to Influence Executives, with Nancy Duarte (episode 450)
• How to Rehearse Before a Presentation, with Jacqueline Farrington (episode 645)
• That’s a Great Question (Dave’s Journal)

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