Let’s talk about an interesting challenge: giving a technical presentation to a mixed audience. You might find yourself speaking to a group that includes both technical experts and non-technical attendees. How do you keep everyone engaged without losing one group or the other?

The key is queuing your content so each group knows when to tune in more closely or brace themselves for either simplicity or complexity. Here’s how you can do that effectively:

1. Signal Simplicity for Non-Technical Audiences

When addressing the non-technical people in your audience, you can use phrases like “Simply put…” before diving into an explanation. The phrase “simply” signals that what you’re about to share is straightforward and accessible. For example:

“Simply put, this technology helps us save time by automating repetitive tasks.”

Hearing this, the non-technical audience will perk up, knowing that this part is designed for them.

2. Cue Complexity for Technical Experts

On the other hand, when it’s time to provide more detailed or advanced information, use phrases like “Let’s get more in-depth…” or “For those familiar with the technical side…” This alerts the experts in the room that they’re about to get the level of detail they crave. For instance:

“Let’s get more in-depth about the algorithm’s optimization process…”

This also gives the non-technical audience a heads-up that the next part might be more technical, so they can choose to follow along as best they can or wait for the next broader explanation.

Why This Approach Works

Using simple verbal cues keeps your presentation structured and ensures that everyone in your audience feels included. Non-technical people aren’t overwhelmed, and technical experts don’t feel underwhelmed. Both groups know exactly when to pay closer attention to what matters to them.

What do you think? Something you’d be willing to try? If so, give it a go and let me know how it turns out!