Beginning Your Speech The Better Speaker Series 270

Criteria for a Successful Opening Get the attention of the audience Introduce the topic Establish rapport Take less than five to 10 percent of the entire speech time

Opening Techniques State the importance of your topic Tell your listeners why the topic is important to them.

Opening Techniques Make a startling statement “Smoking kills! More Americans die each year than were killed in battle during World War II and Vietnam together.”

Opening Techniques Arouse suspense or curiosity Use a series of statements related to the topic that would pique your listeners’ interest.

Opening Techniques Tell a story or anecdote “My brother and I went hunting last week in the woods behind my house…”

Opening Techniques Ask a rhetorical question “Do you know what to do if your child begins to choke?”

Opening Techniques Begin with a quotation A quotation can: Add authority to a speech Amuse the audience Dramatize a speech point

Opening Techniques Reference the occasion It allows the speaker to recognize an unusual or important event and establish a common interest with the audience.

Other Techniques Humor Audience participation A demonstration A reference to a historical event

Openings to Avoid Avoid acknowledging the amount of preparation Avoid being dull and boring Avoid delaying mention of the topic

A dynamic beginning is essential for a successful speech! Conclusion A dynamic beginning is essential for a successful speech!