Focus groups are a valuable tool to gather opinions from, and test your idea with, a diverse group of stakeholders, consumers, citizens or classmates. Try it out!
Conducting a Focus Group
- Begin with thanking the participants, state the goal of the focus group and ask that only constructive criticism be contributed.
- Introduce your vision and outline what work remains. For ideas on how to present you idea, check this guide.
- Stay on topic.
- Keep notes or record the session.
- Ask that if anyone has comments they wish to keep anonymous to deposit them into a box without leaving their name.
- Ensure that everyone is being respectful and respected throughout the conversation.
- Try to gather people from different age groups and backgrounds to ensure you’re getting diverse opinions.
- Don’t be offended! Remember that participants are here to help you.
- If the feedback isn’t what you need, try rephrasing your questions.
- Don’t lose sight of your original vision, even if you get negative feedback. Take what you hear, separate helpful help from unhelpful help and re-work your idea.
- Make sure you thank everyone for attending and for their help.
- After the focus group is finished, reflect on what you heard (using your recording to help!) and adjust your idea, if required.
Focus Group Details
Date:
Time:
Duration:
Place:
Participants:
Questions to ask participants:
Sample Questions to Ask:
- What do you think of the idea?
- What works? What doesn’t work?
- Have you heard of a similar idea?
- What would you do differently?
- What do you like that you want to see more of?
- Is the concept clear?
- Is the concept impactful?
- Is it an idea you want to support, help or purchase?
- Do you have any additional feedback?
Tips for Effective Presentations & Pitches
- Show your passion and knowledge
- Start with an attention grabbing point (eg. a shocking fact, a surprising insight, a story)
- Keep it simple – what is the key message that you want to get across?
- Smile and make eye contact to build a connection
- Be a storyteller, the audience will engage and remember your points more easily
- Use visuals to help tell your story and explain your issue
- Practice with a strong voice and in front of peers or family members
- Use your body – make gestures and move around if at all possible
- Engage your audience – pose a question, ask for opinions
- If you aren’t sure how to answer a question from the audience, acknowledge it and state that you don’t have the answer, but will look more into it (and actually get back to them when you find out)
- Relax and breathe
If you are using presentation aids:
- Ensure the text is clear
- Ensure pictures, graphs and charts are easy to read
- Be consistent with a readable font and colouring
- Keep it neutral
- Avoid too much animation
- Don’t read off of the aid – expand on the text to your audience
Resources:
Top Tips for Effective Presentations
10 ways to improve your presentation skills