How To Be a Good Audience Member in Professional Settings

When it comes to honing workplace communication skills, we understandably focus on strengthening things like our public speaking and leadership skills.  However, a crucial component of achieving effective communication in professional settings is often overlooked – how to be an effective audience member

Here are strategic tips to enhance your audience skills, drawn from the principles we teach in Bespoken’s professional coaching and leadership training:

1. Active Listening

One of the most important aspects of being a good audience member is practicing active listening.   Active Listening is more than just hearing the words being spoken—it’s about truly being present and giving the speaker your full attention. Focus on understanding their message, making mental notes, and absorbing the information being shared.

  • Why it matters: Active listening demonstrates respect for the speaker and enhances your own ability to retain important information, a crucial component of accountability.

  • Tip: Take notes, but don’t let them distract you. Jot down key points or questions you can bring up later. As an audience member, try your best to be fully present.

2. Non-Verbal Cues

Did you know your body language communicates as much as your words, even as a listener?  Simple yet powerful affirming non-verbal cues such as eye contact, nodding, and keeping an open posture show that you’re engaged and interested. Conversely, slouching, crossing your arms, or looking at your phone can signal disinterest and disrespect.

  • Why it matters: Effective non-verbal communication is a crucial component of emotional intelligence, a communication skill highly sought in workplace leaders. The way you present yourself as an audience member affects not only how you are perceived but also the energy of the room.

  • Tip: Maintain eye contact with the speaker and occasionally nod to show that you’re following along. This helps foster a more engaging environment for everyone.

3. Ask Thoughtful Questions

Good audience members contribute to the dialogue by asking insightful, thoughtful questions. Rather than waiting to speak, focus on the content, and aim to ask questions that demonstrate your understanding and curiosity.

  • Why it matters: Asking thoughtful questions reflects your engagement and attentiveness as an audience member. In professional settings, this demonstrates your ability to think critically, stay focused, and contribute meaningfully to discussions.

  • Tip: Prepare at least one or two questions ahead of time if possible. This will allow you to contribute meaningfully to the discussion and show that you’re actively engaged in the material.

5. Stay Focused and Engaged

In today's digital age, it’s easy to get distracted by phones or laptops during a presentation. However, staying fully focused is a sign of professionalism. It not only respects the speaker's time but also ensures you’re benefiting from the presentation.

  • Why it matters: Staying engaged shows respect for the speaker and others around you, fostering a culture of attentiveness and mutual respect. A healthy workplace culture thrives when individuals contribute to a respectful atmosphere, making everyone feel valued and heard.

  • Tip: Put your phone on silent, close unnecessary tabs, and devote your attention to the speaker. This not only helps you absorb the information but also signals to the speaker and other audience members that you’re taking the event seriously.

6. Show Appreciation

Whether it’s a formal event or a casual meeting, showing appreciation to the speaker is always a good practice. A simple “thank you” or a follow-up email acknowledging their effort and insights can go a long way.

  • Why it matters: Expressing appreciation helps build trust and rapport with colleagues. Acknowledging others' efforts fosters a culture of respect and collaboration, essential for developing strong professional relationships. Trust is the foundation of successful teamwork, and small gestures of gratitude can strengthen those connections.

  • Tip: After the presentation, approach the speaker to express your gratitude. If you don’t get the chance to do so in person, send a brief email acknowledging their time and effort.

Being a good audience member is just as important as being a strong presenter. The benefits of professional coaching often emphasize the importance of effective communication, both as a speaker and a listener. By actively engaging, asking thoughtful questions, and showing appreciation,, you contribute to a positive professional environment and enhance your own leadership skills.

Want to take your professional growth even further? Contact us at Bespoken to learn more about how our coaching can support your journey to becoming an impactful leader, communicator, and collaborator.

About the Author
Jackie Miller launched Bespoken in 2015 to channel years of professional performance experience into techniques that improve public speaking, presenting, and professional communication skills. She holds a B.F.A. and M.A. both from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.

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