Giving a presentation can be nerve-racking—especially if your audience knows the topic better than you. But you can share your knowledge while also sharing the forum with those with greater experience. Here’s how to deliver a credible and engaging presentation to subject matter experts.
 
Embrace self-affirmation. When presenting to experts, it’s normal to feel intimidated. But remember, while you might not be the most knowledgeable person in the room, your ability to organize and facilitate a discussion adds significant value.
 
Be intellectually humble. Admitting a mistake or a gap in your knowledge doesn’t diminish your credibility; it enhances it. Embrace the courage to say, “I got that wrong,” “That’s new information to me,” or simply “I don’t know.” This openness not only builds trust but also promotes a more inclusive and informative dialogue.
 
Tap the expertise around you. Acknowledge the experience in the room at the outset. You might invite seasoned professionals to participate and share their insights throughout, which enriches the learning experience for everyone. But don’t let them take over; remember, this is your presentation. Keep things focused on the goals and needs of the broader audience.
This tip is adapted from “How to Present to an Audience That Knows More Than You,” by Deborah Grayson Riegel