Getting attention
1. Signal
2. Invitation
1. Signal
There are 4 words in English that you can use to signal for attention. They are: ok, right, well and so. For even more effect, use plenty of volume, intonation and extend the pronunciation, for example, “Ooohkaaaay”.
2. Invitation
Consider these two expressions. Which would be the most effective?
i. “Let’s start”
ii. “Shall we start?
The 2nd expression is probably more appealing because it requires a response and encourages participation from the other attendees rather than using “let’s” which has the danger of being perceived as top down. Other suitable invitations include:
“Is everybody ready to start?”
“Can we all begin?”
“Shall we get down to business?”
