A hostile audience is one of the most difficult challenges for a speaker. Even experienced speakers dread audience members who try to throw the presenter off balance. But remember, it isn't what happens to you - the speaker - that matters. What matters is how you respond to it! You can deal with any situation that comes up. Below are some tips for dealing with difficult people in your audience.

DIFFICULT PEOPLE: CONTROLLING PERSONAL/HIDDEN AGENDAS
THE PERSONAL AGENDA	WHY IT HAPPENS	WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT
The "Heckler"	Probably good-natured most of the time, but is distracted by job or personal problems.	Keep your and others' tempers under control. Honestly agree with one idea…then move on to something else. Toss a misstatement of facts to the audience to turn down. Talk privately to this person to determine what's bothering him/her as a last resort.
The "Rambler"	One idea leads to another and this person gets lost miles from the original point.	When there is a pause for breath, thank him/her, refocus attention and move on. In a friendly manner, indicate we are a little off the subject. As a last resort, glance at your watch and say, "Time is limited." Say, "Time out. Let's see if I understand you."
"Ready Answerer"	This person really wants to help, but makes it difficult by keeping others from participating.	Cut him/her off tactfully by questioning others. Suggest that, "We put others to work." Ask this person to summarize. It keeps him/her attentive and capitalizes on his/her enthusiasm.