President's Tip of the Week

How to Make a Great Speech Even Greater:
Write a Fabulous Introduction
(1/31/08)

You've heard the saying "Your reputation precedes you." In other words," I already know what to expect from you, because I've heard so much about you." Make sure your speech introduction builds a captivating reputation for you while telling your audience exactly what to expect.

Here is a tip for writing a sparkling introduction for a speech that seeks to evoke an emotional response from your audience. Use your introduction to "prime the pump." For example, if your speech is humorous, let the Toastmaster be your opening act. Your introduction should warm up the audience and get them laughing before you even take the stage.

The introduction for an informative speech could include some thought-provoking questions. This puts the audience in a curious state of mind. They won't be able to wait to hear the answers you are going to provide them.

Inspiring speeches require an inspiring introduction. Short familiar quotations that link into a teaser for the personal story you are going to relate in the speech can set you up for success in these speeches.

A well-written introduction will help your speech stand out from the crowd. I frequently write a draft of my speech introduction before I begin writing my speech. It helps me stay focused on exactly what I'm trying to accomplish in the speech and the tone I want to set.

A final suggestion: send your speech introduction to the Toastmaster several days in advance of the meeting so he or she isn't reading it cold. The Toastmaster is your best friend and ally on the night you speak. Put this tip into action and you'll be amazed at the difference a great introduction delivered with panache can make in your speaking experience.