Redirecting

Definition

Redirecting is a communication technique used to shift the focus of a conversation or question to a different, more productive area. It allows speakers to maintain control over discussions, especially when faced with challenging or uncomfortable questions, by guiding the audience's attention away from the original inquiry toward a relevant topic that supports the speaker’s message or objectives.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Redirecting can help maintain a positive atmosphere during presentations by steering away from potentially hostile or inappropriate questions.
2. Using redirecting effectively requires quick thinking and an understanding of both the audience's concerns and the presenter's objectives.
3. It can also serve to reinforce key messages by connecting the question to other points that support the main topic.
4. Practicing redirecting can improve overall communication skills and increase confidence when dealing with difficult inquiries.
5. Redirecting should be done tactfully to avoid appearing evasive or dismissive, which can undermine the speaker's credibility.

Review Questions

• How can redirecting be utilized in a presentation to handle difficult questions from the audience?
  • Redirecting can be effectively used during presentations by shifting focus from difficult questions to related topics that reinforce the speaker's message. This technique helps manage the flow of conversation, allowing presenters to address audience concerns while keeping discussions aligned with their main objectives. By thoughtfully redirecting, speakers can maintain engagement and steer discussions toward more constructive areas.
• Discuss how redirecting differs from deflection and why it is considered a more effective communication strategy.
  • Redirecting differs from deflection in that it acknowledges the question while strategically guiding the conversation towards a more relevant point. While deflection may simply change the subject without addressing the inquiry, redirecting builds rapport with the audience by demonstrating that their concerns are understood. This approach fosters a collaborative environment and enhances the speaker’s credibility, making it a more effective communication strategy in professional settings.
• Evaluate the impact of active listening on the effectiveness of redirecting in communication.
  • Active listening significantly enhances the effectiveness of redirecting by ensuring that speakers fully understand audience questions and concerns. When presenters actively listen, they can identify key themes and emotions behind inquiries, allowing them to craft more relevant and targeted redirects. This thoughtful engagement not only increases the likelihood of successful communication but also strengthens trust and rapport with the audience, ultimately improving the overall interaction.

Related terms

Reframing:

The process of changing the way information is presented or perceived, often to provide a different perspective or to mitigate negative implications.

Deflection: A strategy used to avoid answering a direct question by changing the subject or providing an unrelated response.

Active Listening:

An engagement technique where the listener fully concentrates, understands, and responds thoughtfully to what is being said, which can create opportunities for effective redirecting.