Handling unexpected questions can be tackled through firstly staying calm and taking a deep breath. Do not panic and actively listen to the question. Take a pause to process it. Thank the person who asked it to you. If unsure of the question paraphrase it. This not only shows respect for the person who asked you the question but also buys you some time to phrase a response in your mind. When you respond maintain open body language- shoulders back, feet centered, upright stance and use natural gestures. Respond confidently and keep your response clear and simple by avoiding big words. Once done clarify with the person who asked whether their question has been answered or not.

Stay calm and listen carefully to understand the question. If you know the answer, respond concisely and confidently. If unsure, acknowledge the question and offer to follow up. Redirect back to your main points to keep the presentation on track.

It is best to start by expressing gratitude, this emotion calms you down and gives the questioner appreciation, which also calms down a direct and aggressive question. Then try to respond by first making sure that you have understood the question correctly. This gives you time to think and shows genuine interest. If you don't know the answer, you can try to find an answer together or skillfully pass it on to the audience. In principle, honesty is always a good starting point. It's perfectly okay not to have an answer ready sometimes, it doesn't immediately show a lack of expertise. Sometimes, however, such open discussions with the audience can also lead to interesting new ideas.

During a presentation, I once got a highly technical question I wasn���t prepared for. Instead of panicking, I smiled and said, "Great question! Let’s open this up—does anyone have insights to share?" A subject-matter expert in the audience responded, sparking a great discussion. That moment taught me that you don’t need all the answers—you just need to facilitate the conversation. Engaging the audience can turn a challenge into a powerful learning experience!

"The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today." 🎯 Embrace questions as engagement, not interruptions. 🎯 Take a deep breath and smile—your reaction sets the tone. 🎯 Repeat the question to ensure understanding and buy thinking time. 🎯 Bridge back to your core message when possible. 🎯 Keep a "pocket example" ready for common objections. 🎯 Use the "feel, felt, found" technique for challenging questions. 🎯 When stumped, say "Great question—I'll need to research that" rather than guessing. 🎯 Turn to audience expertise: "Anyone here with experience on this?" 🎯 Track patterns of questions to improve future presentations. 🎯 Remember that handling tough questions well often impresses more than your prepared remarks.