Focus Groups – A Guide

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

How to Give a Killer Presentation

10 Tips for Giving Better Presentations at Work or on Stage