Monday, March 22, 2010

Tom Antion: Seating Tips

=> People prefer to sit by aisles. Avoid chairs next to walls.
Audience members will feel trapped.

=> Aisles should get bigger as they get nearer the exits because
they must accommodate more people.

=> Seat for least distraction and best focus on presentation.
Turn off wall sconces behind the presentation. Set away from open
windows, clocks, and entry doors.

=> Even after you have pre-set the seats perfectly, suggest to
audience members, that they adjust their seating slightly for
comfort.

=> Encourage seating in the front of the room by cordoning off
back rows with masking tape, rope, or string, or placing reserved
signs on back tables.

=> Avoid reserving seats through tipping chairs up against
tables. The jutting legs tend to bruise shin bones and trip
audience members.

Trick: Only put out 50-75 percent of the chairs for the expected
number of participants and you will almost always have a packed
house. Stack the rest of the chairs in the back corner of the
room for easy access if needed.

Trick: When you have a choice, opt for a smaller room. This again
gives you a better chance for a packed house.

Learn the best room set up tips for your presentation!