How To Give a Powerful Introduction in a Speech
Delivering a speech is a frightening experience for most of us, nonetheless, if you start well and have ample knowledge on your subject, things usually turn out just fine by the time you walk off the podium. Still, even for established speakers, the introduction of the speech holds utmost importance.
A powerful introduction is instrumental in laying out the groundwork for what is about to come later in your speech. The listeners need to know what the speech is all about right from the start, as you cannot expect them to wait till the end for the main agenda.
Instructions
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1
You need to prepare well before your speech. Have all the important points in front of you before finalising the introduction. Do not cramp everything in there, the introduction is a summary of what is to follow.
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2
Make sure that the introduction can hold attention and force people to listen to the complete speech.
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3
Remember, best speeches tell people things they do not know already or ideas they had not thought of, so tease the intellect of your listeners with an informative introduction.
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4
Walk to the podium with confidence, as walking nervously will give a bad impression to your audience. For any speech to be successful confidence is the key, your lack of confidence will raise doubts in the minds of the people about the content of your speech.
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5
Even before you say a word, people will be judging you, and while you might feel sick right down to your stomach, keep a smile on your face. Remember an attractive smile can conquer many hearts.
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6
Begin your speech with an interesting story, or crack a joke right at the start just to lighten the mood.
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7
Involving your audience by asking questions is another way to give your speech a strong introduction.
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8
Know your introduction by heart; if you keep reading from the paper without making any eye contact with the audience, you will lose their attention.
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9
Write down only the key words on your index card. Remember you should not use the index cards to write long sentences. Only refer to it to remind yourself of what you would be saying next.
