7 3 SUCCESSFUL PRESENTATIONS - HANDLING QUESTIONS (THE EXPERT VIEW)

Key wellness / self-care and presentation strategies (handling questions)

Use the LEVER model for questions (3 stages)

L = Listen

• Say nothing at first; let the person finish without interruption.
• Use supportive body language:
  • Maintain good eye contact
  • Avoid negative signals (e.g., covering your mouth, folding your arms)

E = “EVE” acknowledgement (use 1–2 techniques as needed)

• E (Echo): Repeat/paraphrase the question to confirm you understood it correctly.
  • Also useful for large audiences so everyone hears what was asked.
• V (Value): Reinforce that their question is worthwhile.
  • Example ideas: “That’s a good question,” “I’m pleased you asked.”
  • Helpful for nervous questioners and (by staying calm) can reduce hostility.
  • For aggressive questions: acknowledge it without treating it as aggressive—signals appreciation rather than defensiveness.
• E (Empathize): Show you understand the questioner’s perspective/feelings.
  • Example idea: “I can understand why you might be worried about that.”

R = Respond

• Give your answer after listening and acknowledging.
• If the topic needs more detail, keep it structured.
• Confirm clarity with a check-back question:
  • “Does that answer your question?”

Common problems and how to handle them

• If you can’t understand or answer

  • Be honest rather than pretending.
  • If you don’t know, say so—pretending can create bigger problems.

• If the questioner asks multiple questions at once

  • Option 1: If possible, answer them one by one.
  • Option 2 (if it’s confusing):
    • Ask which question they want answered first
    • After answering, ask them to remind you of the remaining questions

Presenters / sources

• “Lever” model (as referenced in the subtitles; no specific individual named)