Concluding Your Speech The Better Speaker Series 271

Criteria for Successful Conclusions Achieve a sense of closure Make an impact Take five to 10 percent of the entire speech time

Use a quotation Adds authority Amuses listeners Dramatize your speech Closing Techniques Use a quotation Adds authority Amuses listeners Dramatize your speech

Closing Techniques Tell a short story or anecdote Develop quickly Make it short Reinforce your message

Call for action Clearly explain what action the audience should take. Closing Techniques Call for action Clearly explain what action the audience should take.

Closing Techniques Ask a rhetorical question “You may ask, ‘Can we afford to do this?’ I ask, ‘Can we afford not to?’”

Closing Techniques Refer to the beginning of the speech “I began my remarks by reviewing the challenges our company must confront.”

Summarize your main points Repetition reinforces your message. Closing Techniques Summarize your main points Repetition reinforces your message.

Memorize your conclusion End on time Refrain from adding new points Tips for Success Memorize your conclusion End on time Refrain from adding new points

Conclusion "Great is the art of beginning, but greater is the art of ending.” – Henry Wadsworth Longfellow