How can you build rapport with scientific audiences?

1 Know your audience

Before you prepare your speech, do some research on your audience. Find out their background, interests, goals, and expectations. What are their main problems and needs? What are their preferred sources of information and evidence? What are their values and beliefs? Knowing your audience will help you tailor your content, tone, and style to suit their preferences and avoid any potential misunderstandings or conflicts.

2 Use credible data

Scientific audiences are not easily impressed by anecdotes, opinions, or emotional appeals. They want to see facts, figures, and logic. Therefore, you need to use credible data to support your points and arguments. Cite reputable sources, such as peer-reviewed journals, books, or reports. Avoid vague or exaggerated claims, such as "this will change your life" or "this is the best solution ever". Instead, use specific and measurable outcomes, such as "this will increase your productivity by 20%" or "this has been proven to reduce errors by 50%".

3 Explain your methods

Another way to build rapport with scientific audiences is to explain your methods and processes. How did you collect, analyze, and interpret your data? What assumptions, limitations, or biases did you encounter? How did you address them? How did you draw your conclusions and recommendations? By showing your transparency and rigor, you will demonstrate your credibility and respect for your audience's intelligence and curiosity.

5 Use stories and humor

While data and logic are essential for building rapport with scientific audiences, they are not enough to keep them interested and motivated. You also need to use stories and humor to make your presentation more memorable and relatable. Stories can help you illustrate your points, provide examples, and create emotional connections. Humor can help you lighten the mood, break the ice, and reduce tension. However, be careful not to use stories or humor that are irrelevant, inappropriate, or offensive. Choose stories and jokes that are relevant to your topic, audience, and purpose.

6 Show enthusiasm and passion

Finally, you need to show enthusiasm and passion for your topic and your audience. Scientific audiences may be rational and critical, but they are also human and emotional. They want to see that you care about what you are saying and why you are saying it. Show them that you are passionate about your subject matter and that you are excited to share it with them. Use positive and energetic language, gestures, and voice. Smile, make eye contact, and express gratitude. By showing your enthusiasm and passion, you will inspire your audience and build rapport with them.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?