SayPro Speaker Support Guide Objective: To support speakers throughout their sessions so that they stay on schedule , deliver content clearly , and engage participants effectively .
1. Pre-Session Support a. Coordinate with the Speaker in Advance Schedule a pre-session briefing to understand:The speaker’s objectives
The structure of their session
Key messages and timing of segments
Review the slide deck , videos, or any multimedia they plan to use.
Confirm the format (presentation, panel, workshop) and audience expectations. b. Prepare the Environment Set up the room or virtual space with the necessary tools:Projector, clicker, microphone, timer (in-person)
Screen sharing, breakout rooms, polls (virtual)
Test all materials: videos, slides, animations, embedded links.
Have backups: USB copy, email version, printed outline. 2. During the Session a. Keep Speakers on Track with Time Management Share a visible session agenda or timeline in advance.
Use subtle cues (hand signals, on-screen timers, chat messages) to alert speakers:“10 minutes remaining”
“Time to wrap this section”
Politely intervene if the session is running significantly over time. b. Support Clear Presentation of Materials Advance slides or assist with transitions if needed.
Zoom in or highlight content during explanations (for visual materials).
Ensure visibility: adjust lighting, screen size, or camera angles as needed.
Handle technical issues promptly: audio glitches, broken links, or video lags. c. Facilitate Audience Interaction Help manage questions:Monitor chat boxes (for virtual)
Use a microphone runner (for in-person)
Curate and summarize questions for the speaker
Activate interactive elements on cue:Launching polls, whiteboards, or group tasks
Support group transitions smoothly: “Now we’ll move into breakout groups…” 3. Communication and Coordination a. Act as the Speaker’s Right Hand Anticipate needs without waiting to be asked.
Whisper quick reminders or share brief notes: “One minute left on this point.” b. Stay Calm and Professional If the speaker gets off-topic or flustered, gently guide them back:“Let’s return to the previous point about the data breakdown.”
Use facilitator authority with respect: “We’re short on time, let’s move to the next key area.” 4. Post-Session Wrap-Up a. Assist with Q&A and Closing Moderate the Q&A if the speaker prefers.
Summarize unanswered questions and agree on how they’ll be followed up.
Thank the speaker publicly and highlight key takeaways from their session. b. Collect and Share Feedback Distribute feedback forms or links.
Share session recordings and notes (if applicable).
Provide the speaker with a debrief including:Participant engagement stats
Areas of success
Suggestions for future sessions 5. Tools and Techniques Task Tools / Techniques Time Management Countdown timers, visual signals, cue cards Material Clarity Laser pointer, highlighter tools, clear fonts Virtual Support Zoom, MS Teams, Google Meet features Audience Engagement Slido, Mentimeter, Poll Everywhere Speaker Coordination WhatsApp/Signal group, shared agenda docs
Facilitator Best Practices Be discreet and respectful: Your role is supportive, not dominant.
Be proactive: Step in before a challenge becomes a distraction.
Be adaptable: Every speaker has a different style—adjust accordingly.
Be encouraging: Offer reassurance, especially to nervous or new speakers.
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