Slides freeze, mics cut out, screens go blank — tech fails happen to everyone. How you handle it, and what you say, keeps you in control. Here's what to say when tech fails.
Stay calm and light
'Well, technology keeps us humble.' A calm, slightly humorous line buys time and keeps the room relaxed. Panicking makes it worse; composure makes you look like a pro.
Keep going without the slides
If you know your material, you don't need the deck. 'While that reloads, let me tell you...' Carrying on without slides shows mastery and keeps momentum. This is why knowing your talk matters.
Have a backup plan
Frequently asked questions
What do I say when tech fails during a presentation?
Stay calm with a light line, keep going without the slides, and lean on knowing your material.
How do I recover from a glitch?
Carry on from memory — 'while that reloads, let me tell you...'
How do I prevent panic?
Know your key points cold and have a backup plan.
How can I prepare for the unexpected?
Book a free 30-minute class to rehearse it 1-on-1 with Digby R. Kerr.
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