Writing Introductory Speeches Can Be Entertaining
Even when most things coming into your mind will never be spoken, you may discover that you're becoming quite amused by the task.
This amusement breeds excitement and, before long, you'll have an introductory speech which excites your audience because your enthusiasm will come through in the way you present yourself.
Topics you'll find below...
However...
How do you go about sitting at your desk with a blank computer screen to an engaging introductory speech?
Of course, you can still use pen and paper. :)
7 Key Points to Consider
when writing an introductory speech
- Opening sentence is crucial.
- Knowing your subject is vital.
- Knowing your audience is imperative.
- What tone do you want to set during your speech?
- Limit details.
- Be brief
- Read your speech aloud. How does it sound?
Opening Sentence
The opening sentence of your speech should be as catching as the headline of a front page article. If you're successful in writing your first sentence, you'll hold the attention of your audience. If not, your audience will begin to fidget and, by the time the main speaker is introduced, they will be ready to go home.
Know Your Subject
An audience will know when you're making general comments about a person, event, or product. People don't attend functions if all they'll hear is the same information they can learn from newspapers or the Internet. Have something in your introductory speech which offers your audience something they would never find out otherwise. For example, you may wish to inform your audience that the speaker you're about to introduce speaks seven languages fluently and has an identical twin brother who lives on another continent. It would show your audience that you've taken time to do some research before standing in front of them.
"This one is really important.
How well do you..."
Know Your Audience
If you're giving an introductory speech for a Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) seminar, you aren't going to begin your speech by telling your audience that it's all right to drink and drive as long as they only have one beer. This will turn your audience off from the onset. As opposed to engaging the audience for good, you will have them feeling disappointed with you and, from there, your speech will go downhill. Instead, start by relating a story or event that your audience can relate to. Even if your speech brings tears to peoples' eyes, you'll have gained the attention of your audience.
Set the Tone
Be passionate about your subject and set your tone according to your subject. If you're preparing a speech for a function promoting world peace, be optimistic. If introducing your audience to a speaker who will discuss the consequences of violence, don't sound enthusiastic. Furthermore, if introducing a speaker who will tell Christian teens about an upcoming youth event, be excited and upbeat. Don't sound as though you're attending a funeral.
Limit Details
Don't bring up details the main speaker will talk about in his or her speech. Your focus should be on introducing the speaker, or subject - gaining the attention of the audience - and then letting the main speaker take over.
Be brief
A long-winded speech is taboo
The Sound of the Speech
Read your speech. How does it sound? Is the tone appropriate to your audience/subject? Are your sentences too long, or too short? Are your thoughts organized? Is your speech longer than 5 minutes?
"However...
here is a word of caution..."
So you think you've succeeded...
Are you really sure?
If they feel you have a winning introductory speech, it's up to you to practice your speech so that when you stand before your audience, you'll sound like a professional and deliver a masterpiece.
If you're too shy to read your speech to your friends, you'll have to wonder about whether or not you should take the chance of delivering it in public.
Introductory Speech Aids from Amazon
Writing Great Speeches: Professional Techniques You Can Use (Part of the Essence of Public Speaking Series)
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Amazon Price: $8.64 (as of 12/17/2009) 
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Public Speaking: 7 Steps To Writing And Delivering A Great Speech (A Student Guide)
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Amazon Price: $8.76 (as of 12/17/2009)
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The Lost Art of the Great Speech: How to Write One--How to Deliver It
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Amazon Price: $10.17 (as of 12/17/2009)
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Share your thoughts or suggestions
Does the occasion ever call for you to make an introductory speech? If so, I hope these hints have helped. However, if you are a seasoned pro, I'd love to hear any other hints you would like to add to this lens.
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Reply
- Arnetta Brown-Porter Arnetta Brown-Porter Jun 22, 2009 @ 11:13 pm
- Give me some idea of starting lines for the introductory speech on the importance of business ethics and etiquettes for a group of small business people
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Reply
- Norma Norma Feb 13, 2009 @ 10:01 pm | in reply to KGowda
- Perhaps you can provide me with the subject you are speaking about so I may be of more help....feel free to e-mail me at nbudden@gmail.com
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Reply
- KGowda KGowda Feb 13, 2009 @ 11:53 am
- what are your some starting lines you when you give speech?
by Norma_Budden
Whenever time permits, I love to rea... (more)
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