7 Effective Strategies for Handling a Q&A When You Don’t Have the Answer

Participating in a Q&A session, whether in a conference, meeting, or online forum, can be nerve-wracking, especially when you're faced with a question you don't know the answer to.

 It happens to everyone, no matter how prepared or knowledgeable you are. 

Here’s what to do. Maintain your composure, breathe, and turn the moment into a positive experience for both you and your audience. 

Here are 7 tactics you can use to navigate those tricky moments when you don't have the answer.

1. Acknowledge the Question and Be Honest

The first thing to do is acknowledge the question with sincerity. If you don’t know the answer, it’s important to admit it. Being honest is much better than making a guess or sharing inaccurate information.

• "That's a great question. I'm not sure of the exact answer right now but I can find out.”

• "I don't have that information at hand, but I will  find out and get back to you by the end of today."

This approach shows that you value the question and are committed to providing accurate information.

2. Redirect to What You Do Know

If the question touches on a broader topic you're familiar with, take the opportunity to guide the conversation toward what you do know. This keeps the discussion moving and highlights your expertise.

• "While I don’t have the specifics on that, what I can tell you is…"

• "That’s an interesting question, and here’s what I can share based on what I know…"

This strategy keeps the momentum of the conversation going and reinforces your expertise.

3. Offer to Follow Up

Offering to follow up after the session is a smart professional move. It shows the audience that you're dedicated to providing the answer.

• "I’ll look into that and follow up with you after the session."

• "Let me research that further and get back to you with more information."

Make sure to actually follow up as promised !!

4. Engage the Audience or Colleagues

 This promotes collaboration and might reveal an answer you hadn’t thought of.

• "That’s an interesting question. Does anyone here have insights they’d like to share?"

• "I don’t have the answer offhand, but perhaps someone in the room can offer some perspective?"

5. Admit When It’s Outside Your Expertise

This shows self-awareness and integrity.

• "That’s outside my area of expertise, but I’d be happy to connect you with someone who might have the answer."

6. Use Humor, If Appropriate

A little humor can diffuse tension and make the moment more memorable.

• "I wish I knew the answer to that—then I’d be the smartest person in the room!"

• "That’s one for Google, but I’ll definitely look it up right after this!"

However, be cautious with this approach, as it depends on the context and audience.

7. Practice Active Listening

Sometimes, rephrasing the question can buy you a moment to think and clarify the ask:

• "Let me make sure I understand your question correctly…"

• "So, what you’re asking is…?"

This demonstrates that you’re actively engaged and respectful of the questioner’s inquiry.

Not knowing the answer during a Q&A isn’t a failure—it’s an opportunity to show your professionalism, humility, and commitment to learning.

I can help you effectively manage your next Q&A session more clarity and confidence. Let’s talk.