One of the biggest challenges for public speakers is answering tough questions. Having consulted speakers for three decades, I learned the best learning experience comes through role playing: Asking tough questions and coaching clients to respond confidently and in a clear, persuasive way.
Political candidates must master this technique of how to answer tough questions. Especially when they’re running for President. This video will show an actual example from one of the 2019 Democratic primaries.
Watch Bernie Sanders dodge a major question from a moderator. How do you know he was effective? He pre-empted follow-up questions by changing the subject. This is a very basic approach. And it works.
Okay, Sanders failed to win the election. But his politics made a significant impact in the 2021 Biden presidency.
How to Answer Tough Questions Takeaways
— Answer the questions you can. But for the tough ones…
— Give a one sentence throwaway answer then move to the point you want to make.
— Say “But my main point is…’
— Support your argument with a vivid human example.
— Keep it short.
Keep in mind: How to answer tough questions begins with your preparing answers for the toughest question. Technique can only get you so far.
Do you know the material well enough to answer the tough questions? Or is that question too tough for you!
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