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Step 1
Ask "Why did you come?" Knowing why your audience came to hear you is the starting point. "Because someone ask me to" is not a good answer.
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Step 2
Consider what this audience knows about your topic? Whether introducing a new concept to an audience or speaking to a well educated crowd, knowing at what level your audience will absorb your topic is key. This knowledge will help you direct your speech or presentation to novices or experts.
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Step 3
Determine sex—no, not the action, but the gender of your audience? Are they mostly men or women? Knowing this proportion will help direct key comments or not. Always keep the "faces in mind."
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Step 4
Gauge whether the crowd is old, young or mixed—what is the age of the audience? Always remember that different generations see things differently. Interpretation of your address by a 25-year-old will be different than a 55-year old. This is very important.
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Step 5
Research before whether or not their any prejudices or attitudes that the audience may have about your address. Each member of your audience will evaluate your presentation by their own role or position in life. Again, know the people you are talking to. For example, is the economic level fairly the same across the audience or is it mixed? If there is no way of knowing, make sure any comments regarding financial issues should be generic.
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Step 6
Consider how the room is arranged. Knowing if you are speaking on a stage, in a corporate board room or to a small group is advantageous. No matter what type of room, speak to the people, not at them.
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Step 7
Prepare for a question and answer period at the end. This may not happen, but not being prepared for it can shoot down your credibility.
