If you are facing an audience that is apprehensive about what you might have to say in a presentation, which of the following approaches is best?

a. Even if your presentation will confirm their worst fears, use the direct approach to confront the negative emotions head-on.

b. If your message will calm their fears, use the direct approach; if your message will confirm their fears, consider the indirect approach to build acceptance.

c. Ignore the emotional undercurrents and focus on the practical content of your message.

d. Diffuse the situation with a humorous story that dismisses the audience members’ fears.