How do you know if your presentation truly connected? In this QuickBites episode, Peter George shares a counterintuitive test — one that has nothing to do with applause or compliments. The key lies in listening carefully to what your audience says after your talk, and noting who their comments are actually about.
When listeners praise your delivery, your passion, or your energy, it often signals they didn’t leave with a clear takeaway. But when they talk about themselves — a new perspective they’re carrying home, a decision they’ve made, an action they’re ready to take — that’s the real sign of impact. Peter also shares a simple follow-up question you can use to find out either way./p>
Welcome to QuickBites, public speaking tips and techniques you can digest in five minutes or less.
What Audience Feedback Really Tells You
One of the most common questions speakers ask is: how do I know if my presentation connected? Peter’s answer is counterintuitive — pay close attention to the subject of what your audience members say after your talk. When they talk about you — your energy, your passion, your polish — there’s a good chance they didn’t walk away with much. But when they talk about themselves, about what they’re going to do differently or how your message shifted their thinking, that’s when you know you’ve truly served them.
When “Good Job” Isn’t Enough
Comments like “good job” or “you’re such a passionate speaker” may say more about politeness than impact. Peter acknowledges the exception: in a busy hallway, “good job” is often shorthand for a longer conversation the other person doesn’t have time to have. But if that’s consistently all you’re hearing, it’s worth pressing a little. His suggestion is simple — respond to the compliment by asking, “What was your greatest takeaway?” If they can answer that question, great. If they circle back to flattery, you know there’s more work to do.
“When they talk about you, they often didn’t get anything to take away. When they talk about themselves and what they’re going to do — that’s when you’ve done your job.”
Strive for more than the ever-so-polite “good job.” Listen for the words that confirm your message reached the minds, careers, and lives of the people in the room. That’s the real measure of connection. I’ll see you next time.
Follow the podcast wherever you listen.
Ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts worldwide. New episodes every week.
The Captivating Public Speaker
The principles in this episode are explored in depth in Peter's award-winning book — winner of six international honors including the 2023 International Business Book of the Year Runner-Up.
Read the Book →Take your speaking from good to genuinely unforgettable.
The podcast gives you the ideas. Coaching gives you the transformation.
Schedule a Consultation →