One challenge we can encounter when delivering an IMPAX presentation is deciding how to handle questions that come from the attendees. When someone interrupts your presentation with a question, your desired outcome could be in jeopardy. Here are some tips to effectively maintain control and ensure enough time for a strong roundtable discussion:


Assess the question. Is it well intended? Is it sincere or designed to trip you up? Does it enhance your efforts?
Consider the source. If the question comes from a decision maker, a brief answer is probably in order. If it comes from a gatekeeper, it could be a trap. Even if the question is well intended, it could require a degree of technical depth that the decision maker doesn't need. Going too deep with your answer could lose the decision maker's attention.
Defer the answer. A comfortable way to address this issue is to defer the answer to the roundtable discussion. Say something like this, "Thank you for the question. Let's address this in a couple of minutes during our roundtable discussion."
Make a note. You can show your interest in the question by writing it down on a whiteboard, a flipchart or in your notebook so you will remember to come back to it.
Answer quickly. If you decide to answer the question, clarify it, answer it, and get back to your presentation quickly.


Of course, you should encourage interaction, just not during the presentation - after all, you've done your research and the presentation is your time to shine. Skillfully and sensitively deferring questions will help you maximize outcomes of both the presentation and the roundtable discussion.