238 How To Quieten the Crowd In Japan

The Japan Business Mastery Podcast By Dale Carnegie Training Tokyo Japan

Some MCs are idiots. At a sports related event filled with free-flowing drinks, idle chatter, and hundreds of attendees, the presentations quickly unraveled into a comedy of errors. The MC, tasked with introducing the main speaker, faced an uninterested crowd more captivated by their own conversations than the proceedings on stage. In a desperate bid for attention, the MC resorted to shooshing the audience, first gently, then with exaggerated, strident authority, as if addressing unruly schoolchildren. This tactic only drew ridicule, amplifying the noise and making the atmosphere even more chaotic.

When the main speaker took the stage, the MC’s antics continued, with unhelpful interjections and more shooshing during the speech. Unfortunately, the speaker lacked the skills to command attention, their words drowned out by the persistent hum of more self interested conversations. Subsequent speakers fared no better, victims of an audience too engrossed in their own chatter to care. Blame could be assigned to the unengaging speakers, the audience's rudeness, or both, but such analysis is too generous. The free flow of alcohol played a pivotal role; once the drinks started, the audience's focus shifted entirely to themsleves.

In Japan, a different approach to similar events often yields better results. Alcohol is withheld until speeches are over, incentivizing discipline with the promise of a toast. While this method isn’t foolproof, it significantly reduces distractions, fostering a more attentive audience. However, the Japanese system also has its flaws, such as lengthy, monotonous speeches that can test even the most patient and thirsty listeners.

For speakers facing such booze heightened challenges, the key lies in preparation and technique. Successful presentations start with a powerful, concise message that engages the audience immediately. Asking interactive, thought-provoking questions tailored to the event’s theme—like rallying sports fans to cheer for their favorite teams—can channel the audience’s energy positively. Following this, a pause to capitalize on the crowd’s silence ensures full attention for an impactful opening. Maintaining interest requires a blend of storytelling, vivid imagery, and dynamic energy.

When addressing a noisy or distracted audience, a speaker must project energy levels exceeding the crowd’s, creating a commanding presence akin to a rock star’s performance. Amplified gestures, a powerful voice, and strategic engagement can cut through distractions. In contrast, uninspiring speeches and ineffective MCs, as in this event, doom speakers to be snubbed, ignored and completely forgotten. With proper techniques, a speaker can transform crowd chaos into an opportunity, standing out as a rare and skilled bolshie crowd wrangler.