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How to Give a Speech: 10 Tips for Powerful Public Speaking

When we start preparing to give a speech, it can be a nerve-wracking experience. It’s completely normal—most of us feel a combination of excitement and nerves when we’re about to take the stage.

However, with some strategic planning and practical advice, you can make sure your speech is powerful and effective. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to give a speech that will leave your audience engaged and inspired.

We’ll examine 10 tips to help you build a powerful speech, from outlining your points methodically to crafting captivating introductions . Whether you’re a beginner or experienced public speaker, these nuggets of wisdom will help you take your next speech to the next level. Let’s get started!

Quick Review of Key Points

Preparing ahead of time is the key to giving an effective speech. Make sure to structure your speaking points, rehearse your delivery, and be aware of the needs of your audience for maximum impact.

How to Prepare for a Speech

Preparing for a speech is an essential step to public speaking success. It can help to build your confidence, create content that reaches the audience, and reduce performance anxiety.

Although it can be time-consuming in the beginning, preparation will ensure less stress and more comfort during delivery. Here are some tips to consider when preparing for a speech:

Practice : Before delivering a speech, practice it out loud several times. This will allow you to gain experience in speaking without an audience and increase your confidence when you do have one.

Practicing also helps to identify awkward moments in the speech or any difficult phrases which then can be changed or removed altogether. Additionally, it helps you determine where to pause for effect. Research : Depending on the topic of the speech , research should be done beforehand to gather information that is relevant and interesting for the audience. It is important to get acquainted with the language typically used by audiences to ensure a clear understanding of what is being said.

Additionally, relevant statistics and stories concerning the topic are a great way to draw in listeners and make the presentation more engaging .

Know Your Audience : When preparing your speech, be sure to consider who will be listening. For instance, if giving a presentation at work, include industry jargon that members would understand and include relevant topics from publications that might be familiar to the employees.

On the other hand, if consulting business professionals in their field then technical language may be easier for them to comprehend than laypeople or students.

By gathering valuable information about the topic and getting comfortable with a speech’s content and delivery through practice, speakers will gain more assurance during their talk as well as respect from their audience.

Preparing beforehand not only gives insight into how to engage listeners but also encourages more meaningful conversations after the event. Now that we have discussed how to prepare for a speech let us move on to creating an outline which will provide structure during delivery.

Create an Outline

After determining the audience and purpose of your speech, the next step to effective public speaking is to create an outline .

An outline serves as a roadmap to ensure that your speech has a logical flow and contains all important points. It also can help keep you on track during the speech itself, allowing you to stay focused and organized.

When constructing an outline, consider drawing up both a main point and sub-points for each portion of the speech. Both should be relevant to the goal of the presentation and backed up by facts and research.

Brainstorming can help in this process; try grouping your ideas together in clusters to make sure you cover all possible angles.

Furthermore, writing out exact quotations or figures can prove beneficial in forming a cohesive argument. At this stage, it is also wise to decide where transitions, humor, stories, or other engaging techniques will be included.

While there are differing opinions as to whether outlines should be memorized or simply used as a reference while speaking, many agree that they should serve their purpose – not only articulate the main thoughts of the speech but also assist the speaker with maintaining focus and preventing distractions.

The debate between those who advocate for memorization versus casual consulting touches upon issues such as rehearsal time, risk of errors in delivery, ease of practice versus actual performance and more.

Each side has valid arguments that should be weighed prior to deciding what type of approach best suits your needs.

Having a firmly constructed outline acts as a valuable tool when it comes time to deliver a powerful public speech. By actively utilizing this tactic, speakers may not only enhance their clarity and coherence, but also add structure and vibrance to their presentations.

Now that we have explored what goes into crafting an effective outline, let’s dive deeper into how we can best collect resources and research our topics for maximum impact.

Collect Sources and Research

Collecting sources and research is a crucial step for any public speaking engagement. It ensures that you have the necessary information to make strong points and back up your statements.

Before writing your speech, take time to research your topic to gain familiarity with different perspectives, facts, and counterpoints. This will help you to craft an argument that can stand up to scrutiny while also adding a breadth of knowledge to your speech.

Interviews can be a powerful source of evidence and anecdotes, so try to include one or two relevant interviews in your research process. Relying solely on secondary sources such as books and articles can lead to a narrow scope of understanding.

Interviews provide an opportunity to hear directly from an expert and create an interesting dynamic in your speech by adding personal experiences as well as commentary from a professional.

In research it is important to stay objective. Gather a variety of perspectives and be open-minded about their merits. Don’t forget to consider both sides of the argument when researching for your speech.

Doing this allows you to understand the opposing perspective and enables you to anticipate potential counter arguments from your audience.

By acknowledging them beforehand, you may increase the persuasive power of your speech by showing confidence in the points you make.

Once you have collected all sources, review them carefully and separate the most pertinent information from the less useful material.

Synthesising this information into concise yet impactful points is a critical part in delivering powerful talks without overloading your audience with too much data or going off track during your speech delivery.

Organizing Your Speech

Before you start putting your words together, it’s important to consider how the different parts of a speech fit together. By taking the time to organize the ideas in your speech , you’ll be able to deliver a presentation that is well-constructed and easy to understand.

One way to help with organizing your speech is to write an outline . An outline is like a map or plan that will provide you with a framework for each section of your speech.

Start by writing out your main points and then include additional details underneath each one. This will help keep your speech focused and provide direction for where you are going next.

Another approach for organizing your speech is known as the “inverted pyramid” method. This structure starts with your conclusion at the beginning of the speech, and then works backward by providing more explanation and detail as it moves toward the introduction.

This method can be helpful when speaking about topics that are unfamiliar to the audience since it doesn’t require them to wait until near the end of the presentation to learn what you’ve been talking about.

No matter which organization approach you choose, make sure to practice it before giving your speech so that you are comfortable with its flow. Lastly, remember that it’s ok to adjust things while you speak if they don’t seem or feel quite right.

Now let’s take a look at how we can use these organizing techniques to actually put our speeches together – starting with structuring our speech.

Structure Your Speech

Creating a strong structure for your speech will ensure that the audience stays engaged and understands your main points. As you are developing an outline, map out how you want to begin and end your speech.

Break up the information into smaller sections with either verbal or visual cues so that your audience can clearly see how you are transitioning between topics . Consider adding humor judiciously throughout your presentation as this could help engage the audience and lighten any tension.

The length of your presentation is also important. You will want to make sure that you include all of the necessary information without going over time.

Oftentimes less is more; if you can say it in five minutes why use ten? Make sure that you practice timed rehearsals so that you can gauge how long you’re actually speaking.

In contrast, avoid trying to pack too much content into one presentation as this could overwhelm both you and the audience. If needed, offer supplemental reading materials for those who may be interested in delving further into the subject matter.

Paragraphs can also be helpful when organizing large amounts of content within the body of your presentation. Utilizing paragraph breaks gives your audience a break and helps to highlight key ideas or summaries before moving onto a new topic area.

Finally, it is crucial to remember what your desired outcome is from the presentation; plan accordingly by ensuring that the beginning, middle, and end serve their respective purposes and adhere to that goal.

With careful deliberations, structuring a successful presentation can be achieved with relative ease.

Having established a solid structure for your speech, it’s important to focus on another key element: rehearsal. The next section will discuss the benefits of practicing before delivering a powerful public speaking performance.

Rehearse Your Speech

Rehearsing is integral to giving a successful speech. When you rehearse your presentation, you give your mind an opportunity to become familiar with the notes and concepts that you are presenting. It also increases your confidence and reduces anxiety or self-doubt.

In fact, studies have found that those who rehearsed their presentation had higher scores in public speaking performance and language proficiency evaluations.

When it comes to how much rehearsal is enough, opinions are divided. Some people believe that over-rehearsing can lead to a more robotic speech with less natural emotion and connection with the audience .

On the other hand, others argue that no matter how well-versed someone is on the topic, additional rehearsal time improves both the delivery of the speech and memorization of key points and facts.

Ultimately, it’s important to practice until you personally find the most comfortable level for yourself, as this will ultimately result in a more engaging delivery.

Finally, if at all possible, try to practice in front of a friend or colleague for honest feedback on any elements that need improvement before the big day. Rehearsal dedication may be tedious, but it results in big rewards on stage–enabling you to deliver your content with clarity, confidence, and poise.

With thoughtful preparation complete, it’s now time to step into the spotlight and give your speech!

Giving Your Speech

The key to success when giving a speech is to be well prepared and confident. Every individual’s preparation process will vary, but the basics should stay the same.

Start by studying your content, understanding the material and being able to repeat it in your own words. Clarify any potentially difficult points. Create visual aids like PowerPoint slides or handouts that supplement the key ideas in your speech.

Practice your public speaking skills with informal conversations with friends and family or rehearse it alone in front of a mirror. Use visualization; imagine yourself confidently delivering your speech. Consider addressing a practice audience if possible to become more accustomed to a live size group.

On the day of the event, arrive early and plan for any potential obstacles: What if my computer doesn’t work? What if I forget something? Allow sufficient time for setup and check-in.

When you are ready to give your speech, take some deep breaths, focus on the positives, and distract yourself from any anxious thoughts with positive affirmations. Remember you have prepared diligently for this moment, you are well prepared and you will succeed!

Start strong by engaging the audience immediately with an attention grabbing opening statement. Speak clearly and make sure that everyone can hear and understand your message.

Slow down and emphasize points as needed throughout your presentation. Be aware of pace, volume, and tone of voice: too fast/monotone can confuse/bore listeners while pauses add a dramatic effect that keeps their interest piqued.

Ultimately, giving a successful speech will depend on knowing your material well enough to speak confidently in front of your audience without hesitation or missteps.

When you do make a mistake (and they happen!) don’t panic – know that mistakes are inevitable but don’t be discouraged; get back on track as soon as possible and continue at the same energy level you had before the mistake occurred.

Having successfully given your speech, take a moment to reflect on what went well and what could be improved upon for next time before transitioning into the next step: mastering delivery.

Master Your Delivery

Mastering your delivery is the key to an effective speech. Without purposeful body language and careful emphasis on certain words , your speech may lack wow-factor and prevent listeners from tuning in. Following these simple tips can help you get started with delivering an engaging and memorable speech:

The most important part of delivery is practice. Rehearse and perfect your speech ahead of time – this allows for more natural flow and confidence during your presentation. It also helps to create pauses between sentences for clarity, emphasize key points, and not be too casual or stiff.

Practicing inflections and varying tones adds interest to your speech by keeping listeners’ attention.

Additionally, it’s important to project your voic e so everyone in the room can hear you; make sure you’re speaking loud enough but don’t feel pressure to shout or yell at any point unless that’s part of the atmosphere of the event.

It’s also crucial to maintain good posture while speaking – stand tall with both feet on the ground, keep your back straight, hold yourself up without gesturing too much or leaning against a podium if applicable.

To further engage listeners, use purposeful hand gestures as they help emphasize certain points and add visual interest – however, avoid overusing them as it can hinders communication.

Make meaningful eye contact with audience members throughout the presentation – otherwise you might come across as unenthusiastic or bored with what you’re saying which deters attention away from the content itself.

By mastering your delivery, you can boost the impact of your presentation considerably – providing a memorable experience for your audience that stands out from others’. As such, it’s worth investing time into practicing ahead of time until delivery feels comfortable and second nature.

Having said this, making use of visual aids such as PowerPoint slides can greatly improve the impact of a speech once delivery has been mastered – let’s look into that next.

Use Visual Aids

Using visual aids can help presenters express concepts more clearly and engage the audience.

Visuals are particularly useful when conveying complex information, such as data, trends, or statistics — they impart meaning at a glance. But some public speakers may wonder if visual aids can be distracting or unnecessary.

Even though visuals can attract attention away from a presenter’s verbal delivery, carefully designed visuals can actually support the speech and help provide clarity. If done well, visuals are effective for capturing an audience’s interest and helping them to better understand the content being presented.

For example, a graph or chart should relate to the points made in the speech and should be discussed in more detail during its appearance onscreen. The presentation can also include larger images that effectively reinforce the ideas conveyed in the speech.

Videos and sound clips are other powerful forms of multimedia that could be employed to make the speech more meaningful.

To ensure that visuals enhance the message of the presentation, key factors to consider include relevancy to topic, good graphic design or aesthetics, accurate size to prevent distortion or blurriness, and seamless integration into the keynote slides or printed handouts .

In this way, visuals offer an opportunity for presenters to demonstrate their creativity and keep their audiences interested in what is being said. Thus, used wisely and aptly, visuals can add tremendous value to speeches by presenting arguments more efficiently and driving home important points. Now let’s explore effective techniques for speech giving that will allow you to craft and deliver your speeches with confidence.

Effective Techniques for Speech Giving

There are a number of effective techniques for giving a speech that will help you deliver it with confidence and poise.

First, practice your delivery in advance. You should practice both in front of a mirror or recording device to check for any distracting habits such as talking too quickly or mispronouncing words.

Second, use simple, clear language and short, concise sentences. Avoid overly technical terms and jargon that may leave your audience confused.

Third, work to establish a connection with your audience by using appropriate facial expressions and hand gestures while speaking.

Fourth, utilize effective persuasive techniques such as presenting evidence, strong arguments supported by facts, personal anecdotes and vivid metaphors.

Finally, articulate an organized structure for your speech. Your speech should have an introduction, body and conclusion to clearly communicate the main point and provide the audience with the necessary context to understand it better.

While these techniques may sound intimidating at first, they can be learned over time with practice and will make all the difference in how successful your speech delivery is received by your audience.

To build on these skills further , the next section will provide tips on how to build confidence when giving a speech.

Building Confidence

Building confidence is key when giving a powerful speech, as it will enable you to deliver the speech in a more poised and credible manner.

To create this confidence , start by understanding that any hesitation or butterflies prior to your speech are completely normal and should not be feared. Instead, view them as natural states of anticipation for something exciting, knowing that you are about to give an amazing speech.

Next, understanding who your audience is and tailoring your speech to meet their expectations will help build your confidence.

Familiarizing yourself with their interests and knowledge on the subject matter ahead of time can equip you with the understanding needed to respond appropriately if questions arise or objections surface during the speech.

Further, practice is key when building confidence for a public speaking engagement . Rehearsing with friends or colleagues before hand will give you an opportunity to learn where problem areas are within the content of your speech, as well as help solidify your delivery by becoming more comfortable with each step.

Checking sound levels in the room you’re presenting in coupled with learning where exits/emergency locations are located within that space can also help alleviate stress levels and boost self-assurance while delivering the speech.

Finally, wearing comfortable clothing and dressing professionally adds an extra layer of confidence when speaking in public.

If possible, bring an additional outfit on hand during the presentation in case of spills or accidents that would require a quick change between sections of the talk. Having this back-up plan in place can aid in keeping peace of mind at ease throughout the speech.

In conclusion, building confidence prior to a public speaking event can mean the difference between a good and great delivery of your message.

By taking into account each of these tips you can ensure that this part of your preparation runs smoothly and sets you up for success when delivering powerful speeches.

With a well-crafted note card of talking points and strong sense of self-assurance, it’s time to start speaking with passion!

Speaking with Passion

As a public speaker, your audience expects you to engage not only with your words but also with your emotions. To share the most impactful message, it is important to speak passionately about your subject.

Doing so will make your speech more memorable and thereby more effective in convincing your audience of its legitimacy.

The power of speaking authentically with emotion lies in its relatability and connection. Showing feelings allows people to connect with you as a person rather than just a speaker. It opens the door to understanding through empathy and active listening .

Examples might include adding personal stories , telling jokes, or displaying your feelings openly during the delivery of your message.

However, not all topics lend themselves easily to expressing emotion. If the subject matter is overly complex or technical there may be less opportunity for emotional expression—but this doesn’t mean those conversations can’t incorporate emotion.

Even if faced with a difficult situation such as death or financial turmoil, emotions can still be conveyed in a respectful way that keeps audiences engaged.

Remember that how much emotion you show depends on the type of audience you’re sharing it with—using sensitivity when delivering passionate speeches helps avoid awkwardness or embarrassment for any attendees who may find opinionated language uncomfortable for whatever reason.

Striking the right balance between being straightforward and showing compassion takes practice, so take the time to develop a style that works best for you and improves upon each performance.

Finally, incorporating passion into a speech gives it life and makes it relatable and engaging—which are essential elements to speaking effectively.

Having passion means giving ourselves permission to take ownership over our stories, making them deeply personal in order to reach our goals and touch people’s hearts in meaningful ways. With that said, let’s move on to discussing how we should tackle dealing with challenges while giving a speech.

Dealing with Challenges

The process of delivering a speech can be challenging, but it is also rewarding. Difficulties can arise during the process that may threaten to derail your success. To ensure you are adequately prepared for these possible pitfalls it is important to consider strategies for proactively mitigating the risk of encountering these challenges. 1. Public Speaking Anxiety: Many people experience some form of anxiety when asked to speak in public. There are a number of techniques available to combat this fear and increase confidence, such as deep breathing exercises, mental rehearsal, positive self-talk and visualization of success.

Learning about the audience, creating an engaging presentation and using props or visual aids can also help reduce anxiety levels and create a better overall experience for both the speaker and the audience. 2. Unfamiliar Topics or Audiences: When presenting on unfamiliar topics or to an unknown audience it can be difficult to prepare effectively.

In this situation it is important to conduct research on the topic and familiarize yourself with the needs of your audience so that the content is tailored accordingly. It is also helpful to use humor or stories related to the topic in order to engage your audience and make them more receptive to your message. 3. Lack of Support: If you lack support from family, friends, colleagues or mentors, it can be difficult to push through difficult conversations or speeches without any additional motivation.

To overcome this challenge, seek out peer mentorship opportunities or find compatible online communities where people discuss similar topics or objectives. Here you can share ideas, provide feedback and learn from others who have experienced similar issues. 4. Time Constraints: One of the biggest challenges when giving a speech is managing your time effectively in order to deliver an effective message without going over allotted timeslots and boring your audience .

To successfully address this challenge try setting manageable goals for each section of your speech and practice regularly. Replicating real-time conditions as closely as possible will help you stay within time constraints when delivering your speech on the day itself. In conclusion, there are many potential challenges you may face when giving a speech or taking part in a public speaking event – but with proper preparation and practice they are easily managed if approached correctly.

With knowledge of techniques for dealing with such scenarios comes increased confidence when stepping up to the podium – further improving your chances of delivering an effective speech that resonates with your audience members.

Responses to Frequently Asked Questions

How should i end my speech to leave a lasting impression.

The best way to end your speech is by reinforcing your main point and summarizing the key takeaways. You should also encourage the audience to take action, whether it be to sign up for a newsletter, make a donation, or visit your website for more information. This final call to action will not only leave a lasting impression on the audience but will also help you achieve any goals you might have had when making your speech in the first place.

What techniques can I use to keep my audience engaged during my speech?

One of the best techniques for keeping an audience engaged during a speech is to keep it interactive . Ask questions throughout the presentation, as well as allowing for audience input and discussion. This can help to keep people’s attention and create a more engaging experience.

Another great tip is to use humor. Even if you don’t consider yourself a natural comedian, sprinkling in a few jokes here and there can break up the monotony of long speeches and keep people interested. Humor can also help to make points stick in people’s minds, making them easier to remember.

Finally, try to be enthusiastic about the content of your speech. If you show too much indifference or lethargic behavior, it will discourage your audience from paying attention and taking your message seriously.

Instead, be passionate about what you are saying so that the energy of your words carries into the room and engages your audience with excitement.

How can I use storytelling to make my speech more interesting?

Storytelling is a powerful tool that can be used to make any speech more interesting. Telling stories in your speech will help engage the audience and make your message stick. Here are some tips for using storytelling in your speech:

1. Choose stories that are relevant to your message and audience. Think about stories that will best illustrate the point you are trying to convey, or evoke emotions in your listeners. 2. Use vivid descriptions and visuals when telling your story. Be sure to include details such as setting, character descriptions, dialogue and plot points. This will help to bring the story to life for your audience. 3. Make sure the story you are telling has a strong conclusion or moral at the end. This will help add emphasis to your message and make it memorable. 4. Practice telling stories out loud before delivering a speech with them. Rehearsing will help you deliver your story more effectively and with more confidence in front of an audience. By using these tips, storytelling can be an effective tool to make any speech more interesting, engaging, and persuasive!

How can I prepare for my speech effectively?

Preparing for a speech effectively is essential to delivering an impactful and memorable presentation. Here are some tips: 1. Have a clear goal in mind. Before starting to prepare, ask yourself what the purpose of giving the speech is: what message do you want to convey? Defining this will help to structure your content and focus your research. 2. Research thoroughly. Make sure you understand the subject matter well, so that your delivery sounds confident and inspiring. Using facts and data will strengthen your arguments and make your talk more convincing. 3. Outline your speech. Make a rough outline of how you want it to go – from beginning to end – well in advance of the actual presentation. This will give you a strong foundation upon which you can craft an engaging talk with an effective narrative arc that keeps audiences interested and engaged. 4. Practice regularly. Rehearsing your speech out loud several times is key to ensuring that you know it well enough to feel comfortable when delivering it live in front of an audience.

5. Time yourself. Record how long it takes for you to go through your entire speech, so that you can adjust the length as needed before delivering it live – remember that most speeches should last no more than 10-15 minutes. 6. Identify potential questions from the audience and prepare answers before hand. Knowing ahead of time what kind of questions people may ask can help reduce the anxiety of not knowing what comes next, enabling you to stay confident when speaking in public. 7. Work on building up confidence levels before delivering a speech. Visualize yourself succeeding in delivering a great presentation; practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or positive self-talk; or use props during practice sessions such as water bottles or stress balls if needed to remain calm during the real thing!

What strategies can I use to reduce my anxiety when giving a speech?

1. Plan Ahead: Create an outline of your speech beforehand and practice it multiple times to become familiar with the content. Doing a trial run with the audience can also help you get used to speaking in front of people.

2. Visualize Success: Positive visualization is a great way to reduce anxiety before giving a speech. Imagine yourself confidently delivering the speech while feeling relaxed and composed.

3. Get Organized: Make sure you have all the materials necessary for your presentation, including notes, slides, etc., to reduce any additional stress that may come from not having what you need when you speak.

4. Take Deep Breaths: Before and during the speech, take a few deep breaths as this will help calm nerves and make sure your breathing is regulated throughout the duration of your presentation.

5. Speak Slowly: It is common to feel anxious while giving a speech and try to rush through it too quickly. Speaking slowly helps maintain composure while delivering your message effectively and clearly.

6. Pay Attention to Your Body: Your posture, stance, movements , facial expressions can all influence how confident you appear to your audience and how nervous you may be feeling inside. Check in with yourself frequently throughout the presentation and correct any tense body language or physical actions if needed.

7. Focus on the Audience: If you notice that your anxiety levels are growing as you present, shift your focus onto the audience instead of yourself as this will help refocus your attention away from negative thoughts that may arise from fear or insecurity.

8. Make Eye Contact: Establishing eye contact with your audience is a key confidence-builder for public speakers—it shows that you’re strong, engaged with them, and receptive to feedback or questions they might have regarding your speech topic .

9. Practice Positive Affirmations: Positive thoughts will boost your self-confidence as well as your mood which can help increase performance quality significantly during speeches or presentations in general—so don’t forget to tell yourself “you can do it!” several times throughout the day leading up to the event!

10. Seek Support of Friends & Family: Many experienced public speakers suggest seeking support of close friends & family members prior and during their speeches—not only does it allow helpful critique regarding content but it also creates a more comfortable atmosphere while speaking which can reduce pre-speech jitters drastically.

Speak with Impact: 13 Public Speaking Techniques to Leave a Lasting Impression

Public speaking is about more than just sharing information!  It’s about engaging with an audience in a way that resonates with them long after your speech has ended.

Public speaking techniques include the art of storytelling, the use of body language, vocal variety, and other elements. These skills are essential for individuals in various professional fields and social contexts. It enables them to present their ideas convincingly and connect with diverse audiences.

In this article, we will dive into 13 proven public speaking techniques. These will empower you to command attention, influence your audience, and make a memorable impression every time you take the stage. So, buckle up and get ready to transform your public speaking skills as we embark on this journey to help you speak with impact!

13 Powerful Public Speaking Techniques to Transform You into a Confident and Effective Speaker

Public speaking is an invaluable skill that can open doors to personal and professional growth. Mastering these 13 effective speaking techniques will help you become a more effective communicator speaker. Below, we’ll discuss some proven strategies you can use to stand out from the crowd, captivate your audience, and leave them wanting more. These strategies will help you whether you’re an aspiring or a seasoned speaker. 

1. Structure your content with a clear roadmap

To communicate your message and maintain audience engagement effectively, it’s essential to structure your content with a clear roadmap. Here are three key components to consider when organising your speech:

• Develop a comprehensive outline

Begin by crafting a detailed outline that includes an introduction, main points, and a conclusion. The introduction should capture the audience’s attention and set the stage for your topic. Organise the main points in chronological order or using a problem-solution framework. Wrap up your speech with a conclusion summarising the main points and offering a call-to-action or thought-provoking idea.

• Use signposts and transitions

Incorporate signposts and transitions to guide your audience through your presentation, ensuring a smooth flow of ideas. Signposts are verbal or visual cues highlighting essential points or indicating a topic shift. Transitions are words, phrases, or sentences that connect one idea to the next, maintaining clarity and coherence throughout your speech.

• Balance information and delivery

When structuring your content, be mindful of the amount of information you present. Overloading your speech with data can make it difficult for your audience to follow. Strive for a balance between content and delivery.  Use clear language and concise explanations to ensure clear comprehension.

2. Leverage the power of metaphors and analogies

This one can significantly enhance your audience’s understanding and retention of complex ideas. Here’s how to effectively leverage these rhetorical devices in your presentations:

• Simplify complex concepts

Metaphors and analogies help break down complex concepts by relating them to familiar or easily understood situations. Drawing parallels between the abstract and the concrete makes it easier for your audience to grasp and remember your message.

• Create vivid imagery

Using metaphors and analogies paint a mental picture that allows your audience to visualise your ideas. It makes them more engaging and memorable. Choose imagery that is relatable and relevant to your audience for greatest impact.

• Strengthen emotional connections

Metaphors and analogies can evoke emotions that help your audience connect with your message more deeply. By eliciting emotions, you increase the chances of your audience becoming invested in your ideas and remembering your speech.

3. Highlight your main points with repetition

Repetition is a powerful technique to emphasise and reinforce key points in public speaking. It’s important to choose the correct phrases or concepts to repeat. Use the tips below to incorporate this into your speaking style- 

• Choose your key points carefully

Before you start your presentation, identify the main points you want to emphasise. These should be the most important ideas or concepts you want your audience to remember.

• Use repetition strategically

You can repeat a particular phrase or word several times throughout your presentation. You might also use a different technique, such as restating your main points differently.

• Vary your repetition

While repetition can be a powerful tool, it can also become monotonous if used sparingly. To avoid this, try varying the way you repeat your key points. 

4. Master non-verbal communication

Non-verbal communication plays a crucial role in conveying your message. It connects with your audience during a speech or presentation. Here are some tips on how to master non-verbal communication:

• Use natural gestures

Incorporate gestures to emphasise key points, express emotions, or illustrate concepts. Use natural, fluid movements that are appropriate for the context and complement your message. Be mindful of overusing gestures or repetitive movements, as this can distract the audience from your speech.

• Be aware of facial expressions

Your facial expressions convey emotions and reactions. It influences how your audience perceives your message. Maintain a relaxed and approachable facial expression. Allow your emotions to align with the content of your speech naturally. For example, smile when discussing a positive point, and express concern when addressing a serious issue.

• Control your movements and pacing

Move purposefully during your presentation. Avoid excessive pacing or unnecessary movements that may distract your audience. If you choose to move around the stage or towards the audience, have the intent to emphasise a specific point or create engagement.

5. Establish eye contact to build rapport

Making eye contact is an integral part of connecting with your audience. It promotes trust and makes your audience feel more involved with your content. These are some pointers for making good eye contact:

• Scan the room

Look around the room and make eye contact with several people. This will increase your audience’s sense of involvement and inclusion in your presentation.

• Maintain eye contact

Make eye contact with someone for a few seconds before moving on. This will prove your self-assurance and involvement.

• Don’t stare

While maintaining eye contact is vital, you don’t want to come across as weird or pushy. Make an effort to glance away from time to time to give your audience a rest.

6. Project your voice for better audibility

Ensuring your voice is audible and clear is crucial for effective communication during a speech or presentation. Here are some tips on how to achieve this:

• Maintain proper posture

Stand up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart and your weight evenly distributed. This posture allows you to breathe deeply and use your diaphragm to project your voice. Avoid slouching or hunching your shoulders, as this can restrict your breathing and limit your vocal projection.

• Breathe from your diaphragm

Proper breath support is essential for projecting your voice. Practice diaphragmatic breathing, which involves inhaling deeply to fill your lungs and expand your diaphragm. This technique provides more air and power to your vocal cords, enabling you to project your voice with greater volume and clarity.

• Articulate clearly

Enunciate each word and syllable clearly to ensure your audience can understand your message. Practice speaking slowly and deliberately, focusing on clear pronunciation and diction. Be mindful of your volume, and adjust it according to the size of the room and the number of listeners.

• Use vocal variety

Vary your voice’s pitch, volume, and tone to keep your audience engaged and maintain their attention. Monotone delivery can make it difficult for listeners to stay focused. It may cause them to miss important points in your speech. Vocal variety helps convey emotion and emphasise critical ideas. It makes your message more compelling and audible. Use vocal cues while shifting through your address. 

• Regularly practice vocal exercises

To improve your voice projection, practice vocal exercises and warm-ups regularly. This can help strengthen your vocal cords, increase your breath control, and enhance your vocal quality.

7. Tackle performance anxiety

Many people have public speaking anxiety. It might cause anxiousness, forgetfulness, and other problems during your presentation. Here are some pointers to help you deal with performance anxiety:

• Practice, practice, practice

Rehearse your speech several times to become acquainted with the material and boost your confidence.

• Envision success

Before your presentation, imagine yourself giving an effective speech. This might make you feel more optimistic and prepared.

• Breathe deeply

Practicing breathing techniques might help you feel less anxious and more at ease.

• Use positive self-talk

Use positive affirmations and self-talk to enhance your confidence and conquer negative ideas.

• Embrace mistakes

Understand that mistakes will happen, and focus on how you may heal and proceed with your life. You can work with a speech coach or take classes to improve your skills.

8. Maintain an open and inviting posture

It is critical for good public speaking to maintain an open and inviting stance. It may help you project confidence, build rapport with your audience, and improve your performance. Here are some pointers for keeping an open and inviting posture:

Stand up straight, shoulders back, and head held high. This might make you look more assured and engaged.

• Keep your arms open

Crossing your arms might give the impression that you are closed off and protective. Keep your arms wide and relaxed at your sides instead.

• Face the audience

Make direct eye contact with them and face them firmly. This will make you seem more approachable and engaged.

• Use gestures

To accentuate your ideas and interact with your audience, use simple gestures. This might make you look more assured and connected.

A genuine smile may make you look more approachable and pleasant. It can aid in establishing a favourable connection with your audience.

9. Be prepared for potential questions and challenges

Anticipating and preparing for questions and challenges during your presentation can help you maintain credibility and show your expertise on the topic. Here’s how to effectively handle potential inquiries and objections:

• Research and anticipate questions

Before your presentation, identify potential questions or concerns your audience might have. Consider various aspects of your topic, common misconceptions, and any controversial elements that may arise. Thorough research and understanding of your subject matter will help you expect and address these questions confidently.

• Develop well-reasoned responses

Craft thoughtful and concise responses to potential questions and challenges. Ensure that your answers are based on solid evidence and logical reasoning. Being prepared with well-structured responses will allow you to address inquiries effectively and prove your knowledge and expertise.

• Practice active listening and maintain composure

During your presentation, listen carefully to your audience’s questions and challenges. Stay calm and composed, even if faced with unexpected questions. Take a moment to collect thoughts before responding, and always maintain a respectful and professional demeanour. Remember that addressing questions confidently and with clarity can further strengthen your credibility.

10. Utilise the rule of three for a memorable delivery

The Rule of Three is a powerful communication principle that can enhance the impact and memorability of your speech. It suggests that information presented in groups of three is more engaging, memorable, and easier to understand. Here’s how to apply the Rule of Three in your presentations:

• Organise your content in threes

When structuring your speech, group your main points, arguments, or examples into three sets. This approach helps create a natural rhythm and balance, making your content more appealing and digestible for your audience. Additionally, limit your presentation to three main sections, ensuring that your message remains focused and concise.

• Emphasise key points using repetition

Repeating important points or phrases three times can help emphasise their significance and ensure that they resonate with your audience. This repetition creates a unique pattern that reinforces your message and makes it easier for listeners to recall the information later.

• Employ the power of tricolons

Tricolons are a rhetorical device that involves presenting a series of three parallel items, phrases, or clauses. This technique adds an engaging rhythm and can create a sense of progression or climax. Examples of famous tricolons include Julius Caesar’s “Veni, vidi, vici” and Abraham Lincoln’s “Government of the People, by the people, for the people.” Incorporate tricolons in your speech to make your message more captivating and memorable.

11. Harness the power of pauses for dramatic effect

In public speaking, pausing is an effective strategy. It allows you to emphasise crucial information, give your audience time to digest it, and build tension for a more dramatic result. Here are some pointers on using pauses :

• Make use of strategic pauses

Schedule your stops ahead of time to make the most of them. Pause before or after a critical point to emphasise it or utilise it to create anticipation before presenting important information.

• Employ varied pause lengths

Change the duration of your pauses to get different effects. A little pause can provide emphasis, whilst a prolonged wait might add tension or expectation.

• Use silence

Silence is a potent weapon for public speaking. Allow a few seconds of quiet to allow your audience to process vital information or to build suspense and expectation.

• Practice your timing

To properly employ pauses, you must first practise your timing. Try with various pause durations and places in your speech until you discover the ideal balance for your message.

12. Incorporate quotes and references from experts

Citing quotes and references from experts in your speech can enhance your credibility, provide valuable insights, and strengthen your arguments. Here’s how to effectively incorporate expert opinions into your presentations:

• Bolster your arguments

Including quotes and references from well-respected experts in your field can help validate your claims and provide supporting evidence for your arguments. By relying on the expertise of others, you demonstrate that your ideas are well-researched and grounded in credible sources.

• Add variety to your content

Integrating expert opinions can add diversity to your speech and create a more engaging presentation. Expert quotes can break up the flow of your voice and provide alternative perspectives, making your content more dynamic and exciting.

• Establish credibility and trust

Referencing renowned experts in your speech can boost your credibility as a speaker. Your audience will be more likely to trust your message when they see that it is supported by respected authorities in the field. Be sure to attribute the quotes and references to their sources correctly. Choose experts your audience is likely to recognise and respect.

13. Reflect on your performance and identify areas for growth

Reflection is a crucial element of any learning process, and it is imperative when it comes to public speaking. Following a speech, it is critical to reflect on your performance and find areas for improvement. Here are some pointers to help you successfully reflect:

• Record your speech

Record your speech so that you may review it afterwards. This will allow you to see your performance through the eyes of your audience and find areas for improvement.

• Get feedback

Request that someone you trust, such as a coworker or a friend, watch your speech and give comments. Be open to constructive feedback and note any areas where they believe you may improve.

• Assess your delivery

Consider how you presented your speech. Were you speaking too fast or too slow? Did you make good use of pauses? Were you assertive and engaging?

• Review your content

Consider your speech’s substance. Did things flow smoothly? Were your primary points understood? Did you present adequate proof to back up your claims?

• Make objectives

Based on your reflection, create some goals for yourself to work on in your future speech. This might include a better pace, more effective pauses, or content refinement.

Key Takeaway

Public speaking can be a daunting task, but with the proper techniques, it can become a powerful tool to leave a lasting impression on your audience.  Remember, practice makes perfect, and being open to feedback from your audience and peers is key to improving as a speaker. 

Embrace opportunities to speak in public, and with time and dedication, you can become a skilled and impactful public speaker. Most importantly, always be open to receiving feedback. So, keep learning and improving to leave a lasting impression on your audience and create a positive public image for yourself. 

And if you’re a speaker or looking for a speaker, check out Gazebo- Speaker Directory Eventible . Eventible’s Gazebo Speaker Directory will help you find passionate and experienced people to speak at your next event.

Also, if you are a speaker and wish to create a page for yourself on Eventible’s Gazebo Speaker Directory, fill out this Google form !

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Alison Bensch

Senior director of global events, cloudinary, proudest of.

In both cases, we had to figure out how to take what are historically in-person events and translate them into engaging virtual experiences with a team of just two in-house event marketers, counting myself.

ImageCon is our flagship customer summit. In 2021, more than 1,700 people across 107 countries registered for the two-day event, which included 20 virtual sessions designed to help retailers unleash the full potential of their visual media.

Our hosted event series included about 8 virtual events across North America and EMEA markets. To drive up attendance and engagement, we hosted unique virtual cooking and mixology classes, wine tastings, tequila pairings, and more, with celebrity chefs and bartenders such as Marcus Samuelsson, Julio Cabrero, and Amanda Freitag.

Rockstar Mode

ImageCon was a success, in part, because we secured high-quality speakers and focused on providing true value to attendees by creating sessions to optimize their usage of the Cloudinary platform to improve their business. We featured customers in the content by doing customer spotlights. We also improved the production level of the summit by partnering with an agency.

I am proud we were able to pull off a high-quality event of this scale while managing 30 other events for the year.

Prior to the pandemic, our hosted event series consisted of in-person dinners and intimate happy hours. We wanted to recreate these virtually, without making them feel like webinars. We succeeded, in part, because we invested in high-quality talent to attract participants and create fun, memorable moments we probably could not have pulled off in-person.

We also took pains to make the events as easy as possible to attend, for example, by mailing guests meal kits or drink kits with everything they needed to participate. Of course, everything was branded, right down to the salt and pepper. We know our attendees’ time is precious, so we encouraged them to involve their family and were sure to include enough food and/or drink to share.

After the experience, we broke out into small groups, allowing people to network with peers and Cloudinary team members, who led discussions on relevant industry topics. Thus, attendees topped off a great culinary or cocktail experience with valuable learnings that could help their business. In fact, I see us continuing with some of these virtual events even after we have resumed in-person ones.

Our on-demand event content is now a powerful sales enablement tool for our sales team, who share session recordings with prospective customers, as well as existing ones who are considering adding on a new capability. We will continue to measure the performance of this content.

For the hosted events, we evaluate success by measuring pipeline acceleration. So, we consider where event guests are in their consideration process before attending the event. We use the event, and event follow-up, to help move the prospect or customer to the finish line. We usually see prospects who engaged in marketing campaigns were more likely to close, and close faster, than those who did not attend an event.

While this is harder to measure, we know our event series keeps the Cloudinary brand top of mind and deepens our relationship with customers. We document the positive feedback we receive from attendees and sales reps for internal use and marketing purposes.

Survivor Mode

Another challenge was creating an event strategy against a backdrop of so much uncertainty. I have seen industry colleagues invest resources in planning in-person events, only to have to rejigger in the final hour. I made the decision from the onset of the year to plan for virtual events, given our small team and resources. This allowed us to create more effective and engaging virtual events from the start and maximize our budget.

Nothing beats in-person events, and I am excited to be moving forward with these in 2022. But I plan to continue with digital and hybrid events, as well, for a number of reasons. When done right, they can be more memorable than in-person ones, and certainly more convenient. They also allow me to engage people across a wider geographic region (all of Europe for example or across the US), which leads to cost-savings and unique and widened interactions for our attendees.

Annie Yuzzi VP

Global corporate events and experiences, sumo logic, bethany roskin murphy, director of global events, drift, charlene kate ditch, founder, charlene kate events, gabrielle d., global events director, automation anywhere, gerilynn marburger, director, global events, hewlett packard enterprise, hollie ashby, senior manager, cxo and third party events, palo alto networks, lindsey cohen, director- event marketing, snyk, ceo & chief event strategist, liz king events, nicola kastner, vice president, global head of event strategy, sap, rachel russell, field marketing manager, even, samantha calle, associate director, xandr, margaret shaeffer, head of field marketing & events, linearb, traci depuy, head of global events, salesforce, dale rickert, global conference head of greentech festival, matthew lin, head of marketing, beetc, emilie watrob, head of event marketing, zs, katherine leong, director, corporate events, gainsight, sr. director, marketing technology (brand and events), salesforce, karim youssef, creative director, dpw, elizabeth thomas, head of global events, elastic, gerry schneider, vp events at wearedevelopers, director, global events at hewlett packard enterprise, mike kalyan, event and seminar marketing manager, shrm.

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8 Public Speaking Techniques to Wow Your Audience

What is the goal of professional speaking?

The goals of professional speaking are to entertain, inform, inspire, and get the audience to take action.

The truth is, in order for your presentation or speech to have its greatest effect you need to be able to entertain and wow your audience.

I’m going to give you 8 presentation skills I use in my speeches to keep my audience on the edge of their seats until the end of my talk.

1) Say Something Right Off The Bat That Connects to The Audience

Let me give you an example of how I open a talk, and you know I’ve given over 5,000 talks and seminars. I almost always open with the same words.

I say, “Congratulations for being here. This means that you are in the top 10% of adults in our society today.”

I say this in Russia, I say it in China, Finland, Canada, and I say it in Atlanta.

“You are among the top 10% of adults in our society today.  Why is that?  It’s because you’re here.  You see, only the top 10% of people in any society ever come to a seminar like this to learn how to be better in some way. The other 90% always have a reason for not being here.”

Then I’ll ask, “How many of you know people who could have been here but had an excuse for not coming?”

Everybody in the audience nods and visualizes and thinks of the person who’s not here, who is usually not a very successful person.

Then I tell them that,

“The fact they are here means that they are in the top 10%.  And by the way, how can you tell who a person really is?  How can you tell what they believe in, what their goals are, and what their hopes, dreams and values are? Can you tell by what they say? Is it what they hope or wish?  No.  It’s only what they do. The fact is that you are here. You’ve taken the actions to be here, and that means you’re in the top 10%.”

Then I’ll say,

“Many of you are thinking that if he knew how much money I’m making, he wouldn’t say I was in the top 10%.  Maybe not, but remember that it doesn’t matter where you’re coming from. All that really matters is where you’re going.  And where you are going is determined by what you are doing at the moment. And the fact that you are here means that you intend to have a great future. Remember that future intention determines present action.”

That’s how I start off.

I’ll even say that I’m going to share some ideas with them, that are practiced by the top 10% of people in this field. I’ll tell them that these ideas can help them to move ahead faster than they ever imagined possible. Then do my best to avoid filler words like um and like, and with this in mind – I launch into my talk.

2) Connect with Emotion

Sometimes when I’m talking to my audiences I will say,  “Tell me, what percentage of people’s thinking is emotional, and what percentage is rational or logical?”

And people will guess for a while, and then they’ll finally say,  “Oh, well it’s 10% logical and 80% or 90% emotional.”

I tell them “No. People’s thinking is 100% emotional.”

What does this mean? This means that people think emotionally and justify logically. The subconscious mind, and our emotions actually function at several thousand times the speed of logic.

For example, you may meet a person and instantly like them. You may find later that there are a lot of reasons for you to instantly like that person. Your emotions acted like a switchblade, instantaneously, but your logic followed after and you figured out the reasons.

3) Tell The Audience How Good They Are

Throughout the talk, I will loop back and say.

“Because you’re in the top 10%, you know this…”

“People in the top 10% like yourself do this…”

“People who aspire to be in the top 10% set goals or manage their time this way.”

So I’m always linking back and telling them that they are in the top 10% and that’s how good they are. Now that’s one way to make it entertaining and enjoyable, because people will all smile and feel happy.

They’re thinking…

“Boy, this guy’s really smart. I didn’t even realize I was in the top 10% until he told me.”

4) Link Back to Your Opening During Your Speech

Starting with a strong opening line or a really good story that you can link and hook your whole talk back into, is very, very powerful.

And I’ve done this year after year.

More on storytelling to come…

5) Relate To The Audience’s Self-Interests

What motivates people to be really interested in your talk, aside from the subject, which many of them may have to be there for?

Many people have told me that they were forced to come to my seminar. They didn’t want to come, because they didn’t think they would learn anything.

So they weren’t there because I was such a wonderful person. They were there because they had to be.

The question you have to ask is, what are the motivations that you need to appeal to so that they will really listen?

Truthfully, I’ve found is that one of the great motivations is self-interest.

That’s why I ask how many people would like to double their income.

They all raise their hands spontaneously.

Then I say,

“Well, in the time we spend together I’m going to give you several ways that you can double your income. These are ways that have been tested and proven by people all over the world. They’ve done these things over and over, and I’ve used them myself to go from rags to non-rags. I’ll give you those same ideas. Would that be a good use of our time together today?”

And they all say,  “Yes! Yes!”

I have their total interest.

If you’re speaking on golf, for example, you ask if they would like to reduce their score by five strokes, every single game consistently.

“Well, I’m going to show you how to do that using psychological and physical techniques.”

6) Entertain Your Audience With Stories

The key to entertaining an audience is stories. Stories are the most important part of a good presentation.

Read this article I wrote if you need help with coming up with great ideas for a PowerPoint presentation .

You can tell very short stories, and they can be your stories or someone else’s stories.

If it’s your personal story, that’s even better.

But if it’s someone else’s story that is just fine.

Start by saying, “I heard a story just the other day.”

And then you tell the story.

Or, “Let me tell you a story,” or “This is something I heard recently that really moved me.”

Whenever you start to tell a story, the whole audience pays 100% attention.

When you’re giving facts and figures and details and strategies, methods and techniques, they will pay a certain amount of attention.

But when you tell a story they will listen intently.

And if you can design your talk around three stories, you’ll be amazed at the response.

Design Your Talk Around 3 Stories

When you think about your talk, remember that “Less is more.”

This should be the basic structure of your talk:

• Your opening
• Your 3 key points

You have a strong opening, first key point, and then a story.

Transition, second key point, and a story.

Transition, third key point, and a story.

Summarize, and then a close.

The stories link it all together. And you can tell stories that are inspiring, or emotional; that make people feel very strongly. You can tell stories that are motivational; that have to do with greater success and achievement as the result of persisting.

7) Appeal To Patriotism, Loyalty or Personal Gain

You can appeal to certain motivations to gain the attention of your audience.

For example:

“Our country is going through great difficulties today and I’m going to give you five things that we have to do to make America once again the land of the free, the home of the brave, and full of opportunity for you, and me, and for our kids.”

So, you have to ask yourself what are the motivations of the people in your audience.

Related: There’s only 1 tip left, if you want more speaker training, check out my best blogs, videos, and courses on the public speaking resource page .

8) Tell the Audience EXACTLY What They are Going to Gain

Great motivation is a desire for gain.

If you can convey to them that they’re going to gain things from your talk, like time, money, or greater success or prestige in any area, then they will be listening and they’ll want to know how they can do that.

A wonderful way you can open a talk, by the way, is you can say “There are three things you need to do if you want to double your income in the next 12 months.”

Then you pause.

The Power of the Pause

When you pause, do you know what happens?

People lean forward and say to themselves,  “I wonder what it is. They wonder what the three things are.”

Then you say,

“The three things are these. You have to be able to do this, and this, and this.”

And then the question they ask in their mind is,  “I wonder how to do that.”

Now it’s almost like fishing…

You just reel them in.

Using any of these tips can help you entertain an audience throughout your entire presentation, no matter how long it is without feeling any speech anxiety . What do you think?

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About Brian Tracy — Brian is recognized as the top sales training and personal success authority in the world today. He has authored more than 60 books and has produced more than 500 audio and video learning programs on sales, management, business success and personal development, including worldwide bestseller The Psychology of Achievement. Brian's goal is to help you achieve your personal and business goals faster and easier than you ever imagined. You can follow him on Twitter , Facebook , Pinterest , Linkedin and Youtube .

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How to Give a Great Speech Every Time

August 8, 2020

How to give a great speak required practice and a specific skill set. And starts before you even step foot onto the stage. It comprises of three main categories: Getting Ready, Segments of the Speech, and Delivery. A good speech gives you the opportunity to leave the audience with the message you want to get across.

Getting Ready

Delivering a successful speech and the overall impression you give, depends on how well you prepare. This requires having a thorough understanding of your topic and a well-developed presentation. Additionally, it helps to know the stage, what you wear, how you stand and gesture, and how you will handle questions.

Know Your Topic

You probably have a good grasp of the topic on which you have been asked to speak or you would not have been asked. But just knowing the topic isn't enough of a strategy for giving a great speech. If you are still relatively new to the subject area, consider talking to others who have more expertise and doing more through research to prepare.

Being familiar with related topics and pertinent current events or trends is important, particularly if you will be answering questions. If speaking out of town, find out if any local issues or events are related to your speech topic.

Know Your Audience

Depending on the context of the speaking engagement, you might be able to some broad generalizations about the audience. However, don't make too many assumptions. Consider how much the audience already knows about your topic. Consider these questions:

• Will there be anyone who has a special or niche interest?
• Depending on your topic, will there be a contingency who have already taken a position about the topic?
• Will your approach be considered neutral, for, or against?

Answers to these questions should shape your speech and prepare you for follow-up questions.

Script Preparation

Many public speaking experts recommend writing out your speech, even if don’t plan on using notes. Doing this makes it easier to determine whether you are within your time limit and gives you something to edit.

Often speakers end up cutting their original manuscript in half to stay within the allotted time. If you intend to memorize your speech, you will need something to read and memorize.

EXPERT TIP If you use your written speech during delivery, make the font extra-large, in all capital letters, and on half of an 8-1/2 x 11-inch piece of paper or 5 x 7-inch cards. Mark pauses with a slash (/) and circle or underscore words and phrases requiring emphasis. Make sure to number the pages or cards.

The make-up of your audience should influence the language you use in your speech. Don't use technical terms with a nontechnical audience. Avoid phrases or nomenclature your listeners might not understand. Never use acronyms; they may exclude some audience members from your message. Use short sentences.

Above all, speak in a way that is natural for you. Stay away from compound sentences, multisyllable words, parenthetical phrases and qualifications, clichés, and overused phrases such as "you know."

Segments of the Speech

Your speech should have a clear opening, body, and ending. This not only lets the audience focus on what you are saying but it helps you convey the message you want to convey. Each segment provides an opportunity to engage the audience and build upon your overall message.

A strong opening statement will grab attention and set the tone for the rest of the speech. Right away establish the purpose and importance of your speech. There are several strategies you can use.

• Express your main point in an assertive manner   e.g. The company believes...
• Ask a rhetorical question   e.g. What is really needed to beat the pandemic?
• Include one or a series of startling facts   e.g. Are you aware that... ?
• Use a human-interest story
• Tell a joke or humorous anecdote One that bridges smoothly into the body of your speech will not only attract your listeners' attention, but also help you to relax.

No matter how you choose to begin, be sure it's pertinent to the topic of your speech and launches you toward making your main points.

Side Note: If you’ve been invited to give the speech, acknowledge the person who introduces you and thank the group for attending.

The body of your speech needs to support your topic, main message, and key points. There are many ways you can deliver the information you want to convey. However, avoid trying to use all of them as some may not be appropriate for the situation.

Anecdotes and Humor

Anecdotes and jokes, when chosen carefully and delivered naturally, are good tools to connect to your audience. Of course, humor should always be in good taste; in no way should it offend your audience.

Keep your humor relevant. Some apt humor within the speech can help maintain your rapport with your audience. A totally irrelevant joke will be recognized for what it is.

Not everybody can handle humor without some practice. Memorize and practice delivering anecdotes and one-liners because they fall flat if you read them. A pause is essential before the punchline and at the end of an anecdote.

Generally, if you are good at telling jokes privately, you will be able to joke publicly. If you're not a funny person, don't try to be funny at the podium.

Like humor, statistics are desirable, but too much data is hard for a listener to absorb. Save large tables of data, charts and graphs for a handout or packet the audience can take with them. For your presentations, use statistics and date to create complete thoughts or comparisons.

Good visuals add impact to your words. They should, however, support your speech and not overpower it.

Most people today use slide decks that can include charts, maps, and pictures along with text. However, don’t rule out the use of printed jumbo charts, maps, pictures, or other "show and tell" items. They can provide variety to your presentation but make sure everyone in the audience is able to see what you are showing.

Avoid complexity. Each visual should, at a glance, convey a single idea. The more "pictographic" a visual aid is, the better. With data and statistics only show the specific numbers or percentages that you mention.

Ending / Conclusion

The ending of your speech should be synopsis of what you covered by summarizing your main point and repeating your objectives.

A good strategy is to clue the audience that you are about to wrap up. For example, "Before I finish, there's one point I want to emphasize."

End compellingly or give your audience something extra like "In conclusion, let me add just one bit of advice."

Let your audience know how to connect with you via a website, email, or social media. If you will be presenting at at future meetings or seminars, it is appropriate to mention them at this point. Be open to answering questions, if the event is structured to include them.

A speech is only as effective as its delivery.

No matter how much time you spent writing your speech, your effort will be wasted if...

• You appear overly nervous
• You speak in a monotone
• You appear ridge or unmoving
• The audience can't hear you
• Your visuals can’t be seen by everyone

Practice, Practice, Practice

Practice multiple times. To give a natural delivery, you need to be as familiar with the text you’ve written as possible. It helps alleviate nerves the more accustom you are with the flow of the speech.

Practice delivering your speech by yourself in front of a mirror, in front of a family member or co-worker, and/or before a video camera.

This give an opportunity to test your anecdotes and jokes, as well as your stance and gestures. It allows you to check that your visuals are clear, pertinent, and emphatic.

Remember the Clock

Unless you are giving a keynote speech and have been asked to speak for a longer period of time, the best time frame for most speeches is 15 to 20 minutes, with another 10 minutes for questions and answers. Regardless of the subject matter and delivery method, you will lose your audience if you go on longer than this.

If you been given a specific amount of time to speak that is shorter than 15-20 minutes, be vigilant about staying within that time limit. Exceeding your time limit will only create a dissatisfied audience and risk losing their respect.

Your Stage and Props

Arrive at the speech site early so you have a chance to check the ambiance, chat with your hosts and the person who will introduce you and meet the other speakers if there are any.

Note the location from which you will be speaking. If using a slide deck take note of the screen and projector location. Find out how much of the set up you will be responsible for. If using other visual aids, be sure they can be seen by everyone in the audience.

Take time to be sure your presentation slides are in the right order. If possible, see if you can run them through the projector before the audience arrives to identify and address any technical malfunctions.

Your Appearance

Your speech actually starts the moment you enter the room. Dress in a manner that makes you comfortable. However, be aware of nature of the event and audience. For instance, you may be most comfortable in shorts and a t-shirt but that might not be appropriate at an awards ceremony.

Check your clothing and overall appearance before going on stage. That will give an opportunity to catch spinach in your teeth or a coffee stain on your shirt.

Eye Contact and Body Signals

Think of your audience in three segments‚ left, center, and right. Look at, and speak directly to, individuals in each segment.

When speaking from behind a lectern, don't grab onto it and hold tightly with both hands. Your body will tense up and you'll appear even more nervous than you are. If the microphone is removable, you may wish to pick it up and move about.

Gestures can help you look more relaxed and add emphasis to what you are saying. However, like every other element of your speech, they need to be controlled and pertinent. Don't "dead pan." Smile, nod, shrug your shoulders‚ move naturally and appropriately. Stand tall, with your head level and your shoulders square.

While you are speaking, be aware of the signals your audience is sending you. Are they looking right at you or are their eyes wandering? Are they sitting up and listening or slouched and dozing? If you begin to lose too much of your audience, you may have to change your style.

Voice and Diction

A clear, strong voice sets off a speech just as an attractive frame enhances a picture. The general tendency is to speak too softly, so speak louder than you consider normal. Good volume communicates confidence.

A monotone is boring, so change volume and pitch during your speech. Absorb this technique by listening to newscasts and commercials on radio and television. Note how they create interest by changing voice pitch and emphasis. Work to develop enthusiasm and "sell" in your voice.

Diction is important. You need to enunciate without going overboard and appearing stilted. The bottom line is to be clear while appearing natural.

People tend to speak too fast. Pacing and pausing are among the most effective techniques for public speaking. Change speed: go faster for excitement and slower for suspense. You do not have to keep talking. Pauses attract attention and may even trigger applause after strong statements.

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Webinar or Podcast: Which One to Choose?

How to create attention-grabbing titles for your next masterclass or webinar, use ai to help create a masterclass or webinar, 5 proven strategies to gain coaching clients with webinars and masterclasses.

Jennifer Sharkey is known as the Virtual Presentation Specialist. Being passionate about seeing people shine and be heard, she leans into her 20+ years of public speaking experience and uses what she has learned from presenting, both in-person and virtually, to small groups all the way up to 5000 people. Jennifer draws from her experience as an associate professor, academic librarian, and coach to help holistic coaches master virtual presentations to grow their business. Her unique immersive program provides practical strategies and methods to build confidence, engage audiences, and generate authenticity and authority.

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"Be a voice not an echo." - Albert Einstein

How to Make Your Speeches Exciting

Let's continue the topic of becoming a more memorable speaker that I previously discussed here , here , here , and here .

Among the things I said was, the moment you strop trying to be a memorable public speaker is the moment you're able to become one . I also discussed knowing clearly what you want to share, ways to turn your passion into a powerful speech, externalizing physically what's inside you (like actors do), and "just" having a conversation with your audience.

If you speak with this level of control, you'll connect with and inspire listeners! Learn more in my new book ,  now available ,  Speak for Leadership . 

Make Your Speeches Exciting and Rewarding

Now let’s go one step further—by making your speeches exciting.

First, let’s discuss an essential component of the learning experience for anyone listening to a speech. It’s really an amplifier in terms of how your speech is received (and how you are perceived). It’s dopamine .

Want to know more about how to connect with audiences? Download my Free resource , "Great Speaking? It's About Performance Over Content."

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter released in the brain when you experience a reward of some kind. If you discover something new and interesting, dopamine is released. Similarly, if you’re setting out on an adventure (as an exceptional speaker will get audience members to feel), again, dopamine is present. Thrill-seekers, gamblers, and those addicted to chemical substances crave this strong stimulus-and-reward response.

So do learners —provided that they perceive what they’re being taught as new and exciting. Those experiences then become “sticky” and therefore memorable. And conversely, where dopamine levels remain low, the experience is eminently forgettable. As neuroscientist Martha Burns tells us, “the more motivated and interested we are in an activity the more dopamine is released and the better we remember it.” She recommends the acronym NEAR to understand this response: N ew, E xciting, a nd R ewarding. 6

Here's great news: you can learn how to develop this type of strong relationship with audiences! Learn how in my Free Guide , "6 Rules of Effective Public Speaking."

Now think about this in terms of public speaking. A major reason most presentations are forgettable is because the speaker plays it safe. He or she may think, “Presentations are always done this way in my industry, and so I’m going to go along.” Basically, these speakers are hoping to get through their talk with their skin intact. Doesn’t sound like a new, exciting or rewarding approach, does it?

Hey, Wanna Have Some Fun ?

Of course, just as with financial investments, your tolerance for risk plays a part in terms of how far you as speaker are willing to go in terms of newness and creating excitement. But at least think about how you might do things differently!

For instance, do you know how to use PowerPoint effectively? Most presenters don't. Find out how in my Free cheat sheet , "5 Rules for Succeeding With PowerPoint."

If a slide deck is used in every presentation in your department, what would happen if you didn’t use one in yours? Or vice versa. Other questions to ask yourself: “What would my talk be like if it were shorter than the norm, or conversely, more comprehensive?” “Would some discussion between me and the audience be productive?” “What might happen if this became a team presentation rather than just me speaking?” “What if I invited an audience member on stage for a demonstration?”

Any of these approaches—or others you might come up with on your own—may seem like a new path forward to an audience. And that, as they say, is a good thing!

And of course, to make a presentation more exciting and rewarding, always base your approach as closely as possible on the needs of the group. Remember, your goal is always to help listeners be better off for having listened to you. The best way to be memorable isn’t to be considered a smooth talker. It is to improve your listeners’ lives in some small or big way.

And have fun! To see how being excited yourself can help make you compelling to watch, catch Hans Rosling or Benjamin Zander in their passionate TED talks.

6   Martha Burns, “Dopamine and Learning: What the Brain’s Reward Center Can Teach Educators,” Scientific Learning, September 18, 2012. https://www.scilearn.com/blog dopamine-learning-what-brain%E2%80%99s-reward-center-can-teach-educators.

The above article is excerpted from my new book,  Speak for Leadership . Click   here   or below to learn more and to get your copy !

You should follow me on Twitter   here .

Gary Genard  is an actor, author, and expert in public speaking training and overcoming speaking fear. His company, Boston-based The Genard Method offers  live 1:1 Zoom executive coaching   and  corporate group training  worldwide. In 2021 for the eighth consecutive year, Gary has been ranked by Global Gurus as  One of the World’s Top 30 Communication Professionals .  He is the author of the Amazon Best-Seller  How to Give a Speech . His second book,  Fearless Speaking ,  was named in 2019 as "One of the 100 Best Confidence Books of All Time." His handbook for presenting in videoconferences, Speaking Virtually   offers strategies and tools for developing virtual presence in online meetings. Contact Gary here.   

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How to Improve Your Speaking Voice

Last Updated: January 12, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by David A. Payne, JD . David A. Payne is the President and Executive Producer of RainStream Media, a media company who focuses on telling true crime stories with underlying themes of social justice. He has extensive experience in media and entertainment, having served as both General Counsel and a C-level executive for comapnies such as Turner Broadcasting, CNN, and USA Today. He is also a lawyer - he received his JD from the Duke University School of Law and is licensed to practice law in California. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 94% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 248,110 times.

They say first impressions last a lifetime, and whether you realize it or not, your voice has a huge impact on the impression you make. Your voice can command respect and show confidence, but it can also be welcoming and help you express emotion. If you have a weak, nasal, or breathy voice, you may not be giving off a powerful first impression, but the good news is that you can improve your speaking voice! While it’s not possible to change the pitch of your natural voice, you can work on other elements that will make it stronger and more impressive.

Breathing and Relaxing Techniques

• Breathe in deeply for four seconds, making sure you breathe into your diaphragm. After four seconds, hold the air in your diaphragm for another four seconds before exhaling for a count of four seconds. Repeat this exercise for two minutes every day. Work your way up to practicing this technique for five minutes a day.
• Once you're comfortable with the four second breathing, you can practice the same technique, but extend the inhale, hold, and exhale to 20 seconds each. You only need to do this once daily.

• When possible, always breathe through your nose. Air inhaled through the nose is moister and better for your vocal chords and vocal strength.

• Yawning deeply, and as you finish the yawn, begin humming. Open your jaw to a comfortable width and move your jaw from side to side as you hum. Do this for a few minutes, then use your fingers to massage your throat. [4] X Research source

Developing Your Natural Tone

• To take advantage of your natural pitch, be sure you are relaxed when you're going to speak. Stress can put tension on your muscles, including your vocal chords, and this can make your voice high-pitched and squeaky. [6] X Research source
• Breathe from your diaphragm when you're speaking, because this will allow you to project your voice properly and fully.
• Resonance in your body is what will give your voice base and depth, because the air in your body vibrates in different cavities, such as the nose, throat, chest, and mouth, and these areas create different sound qualities. To have a full and deep voice, you have to resonate the air in all those cavities. For instance, if you only use the nasal cavity, you will have a higher and more nasally voice .

• Concentrate on using the full range of motion with your lips, jaw, teeth, and tongue when you speak. When you don’t use the full range of motions with these articulators, you are more likely to focus sound in your nasal cavity rather than your mouth.

• Many speakers naturally do this when posing questions: when people speak, they indicate a question by raising the pitch of the voice on the final syllables of the phrase.
• Practice saying the phrase “you are going there” in three different ways: the first way is without changing your inflection (a statement), the second way is by slightly raising the pitch of your voice with each word (a question), and the third is by slightly lowering the pitch with each word (emphatic). Say the phrase out loud and see how it conveys different meanings.
• To practice incorporating these changes into every day speech, read aloud to yourself every day, and focus on varying the pitch of your voice on different words to convey different emotions.

Practicing Vocal Exercises

• Tongue exercise: Fold your tongue back as though you were trying to touch the back of your throat. Stretch it as far back as you can, then stick it out of your mouth as far as possible. Repeat 10 times.
• Jaw exercise: using broad movements with your jaws and an exaggerated motion with your tongue and jaw, repeat each of the following syllables five times: bah, mah, wah, fah, pah, dah, jah, lah, kwah, sah, thah, see, so, soo, zee, zo, zoo
• Lip exercise: say the following tongue twister, focusing on articulating each word: “To sit in solemn silence in a dull dark dock; In a pestilential prison with a life long lock; Awaiting the sensation of a short sharp shock; From a cheap and chippy chopper on a big black block.” As you improve, say it faster and faster. [10] X Research source

• Say mmm-hmm one, mmm-hmm two, mmm-hmm three, and take note of whether your mask is vibrating when you say the numbers. If not, work on moving the sound around until your mmm-hmms and your numbers are coming from your mask. [11] X Research source

• You can also try saying “ney” 10 times, but the trick is to say it loudly without yelling, and to say it in different pitches as you work up and then down your vocal range.

Community Q&A

• Substances such as dairy, coffee, and wine can thicken mucus or remove moisture from your vocal chords, and this can negatively impact the quality of your voice. [13] X Research source Especially if you're going to be speaking for a while or giving a presentation, drink water beforehand to ensure your vocal chords are moist. [14] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Only do vocal training exercises for five to 10 minutes at a time. Always rest your voice in between, and stop if your throat begins to feel sore or scratchy. Thanks Helpful 14 Not Helpful 1
• Always hydrate when doing voice exercises. Thanks Helpful 7 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2011/11/13/masculine-voice/
• ↑ https://www.menprovement.com/how-to-improve-your-speaking-voice/
• ↑ https://www.toastmasters.org/~/media/B7D5C3F93FC3439589BCBF5DBF521132.ashx
• ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2011/11/13/masculine-voice
• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xkRiD23c1ac
• ↑ https://www.speechandvoice.com/speech-voice-improvement-tips-articles/how-stop-sounding-nasal-when-talk
• ↑ https://www.stagemilk.com/articulation-exercises/
• ↑ https://sixminutes.dlugan.com/voice-strength-training/
• ↑ https://ethos3.com/your-guide-to-developing-a-stronger-speaking-voice/
• ↑ https://www.fastcompany.com/3035634/6-simple-ways-to-improve-the-way-you-speak

About This Article

To improve your speaking voice, start by learning proper breathing techniques to strengthen your voice. For example, work on diaphragm breathing, or belly breath, by breathing in deeply for 4 seconds, holding the air for 4 seconds, and then releasing for 4 seconds. Repeat this exercise for 2 minutes daily. Next, start working on speaking from your diaphragm by taking a big breath and then speaking on the exhale as your belly flattens. Additionally, release tension in your body and throat to achieve a deeper, more relaxed tone. To learn how to avoid nasal speech, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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7 Proven Storytelling Techniques to Captivate Your Audience in Public Speaking

1. the power of personal stories, 2. painting a vivid picture, 3. using the hero's journey, 4. building suspense and curiosity, 5. utilizing the rule of three, 6. incorporating humor, 7. telling stories with a twist.

Public speaking can be daunting for many, but with the right storytelling techniques, you can captivate your audience and leave a lasting impression. In this blog, we'll explore seven proven methods to help you develop effective storytelling techniques for public speaking. You'll learn how to create engaging narratives that resonate with your listeners and keep their attention from start to finish.

Personal stories are a powerful tool in public speaking, as they help your audience connect with you on a deeper level. To harness the power of personal stories, consider the following tips:

• Be authentic : Share real experiences that have shaped you or taught you valuable lessons. Your audience will appreciate your honesty and vulnerability.
• Be relatable : Choose stories that your audience can relate to, so they can see themselves in your shoes and understand the emotions you felt.
• Be engaging : Use vivid language and descriptive details to immerse your audience in the story. This will help them visualize the events and feel the emotions you experienced.
• Be purposeful : Link your story to the overall message of your speech. Your personal story should support and reinforce the points you want to make.

By incorporating personal stories into your public speaking, you'll not only keep your audience engaged but also create a memorable experience that they'll carry with them long after your speech ends.

Painting a vivid picture in your audience's mind is crucial for effective storytelling. When your listeners can clearly visualize the events and emotions you describe, they'll feel more connected to your message. Here's how to paint a vivid picture with your words:

• Show, don't tell : Instead of simply telling your audience what happened, show them by using sensory details, emotions, and actions. For example, instead of saying "I was nervous," describe your trembling hands, racing heart, and the sweat on your brow.
• Use metaphors and similes : Comparing your experiences to well-known objects or ideas can help your audience better understand complex or abstract concepts. For example, you might say, "Facing my fears was like climbing a mountain."
• Use descriptive language : Choose words that evoke specific images and emotions in your listeners' minds. For instance, instead of saying "The room was noisy," you could say, "The room buzzed with the excited chatter of a hundred voices."
• Engage the senses : Describe the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures of your story to create a more immersive experience for your audience. This will help them feel like they're right there with you, living the story alongside you.

By painting a vivid picture with your storytelling, you'll captivate your audience and make your message more memorable and impactful.

The Hero's Journey is a storytelling framework that has been used in countless myths, legends, and stories throughout history. By incorporating this framework into your public speaking, you can create a compelling narrative that resonates with your audience. The Hero's Journey typically includes the following stages:

• Ordinary World : Introduce your hero (which could be you, someone else, or even your audience) in their normal, everyday life.
• Call to Adventure : Present a challenge or opportunity that disrupts the hero's ordinary world and compels them to take action.
• Refusal of the Call : Highlight the hero's initial reluctance or fear in facing the challenge.
• Meeting with the Mentor : Introduce a wise figure who offers guidance, support, or a crucial piece of knowledge to the hero.
• Crossing the Threshold : Show the hero fully committing to the adventure and embarking on their journey.
• Tests, Allies, and Enemies : Share the hero's trials, challenges, and the relationships they form along the way.
• Approaching the Innermost Cave : Describe the hero's preparation for their most significant challenge or confrontation.
• Ordeal : Present the hero's ultimate test or battle, where they must face their greatest fears and overcome their biggest obstacles.
• Reward : Show the hero achieving a significant victory or gaining a valuable new insight.
• The Road Back : Depict the hero's return journey, often accompanied by a sense of urgency or a final challenge to overcome.
• Resurrection : Share the hero's final, transformative trial, which results in personal growth and a lasting change.
• Return with the Elixir : Close your story with the hero returning to their ordinary world, now changed and equipped with new knowledge or abilities that can benefit others.

By using the Hero's Journey in your public speaking, you'll create an engaging narrative that keeps your audience invested and helps them relate to your message on a deeper level.

When it comes to public speaking, keeping your audience engaged is crucial. One effective way to achieve this is by building suspense and curiosity throughout your presentation. Here are some techniques you can use to develop effective storytelling and captivate your audience:

• Ask a provocative question : Start your speech with an intriguing question that makes your audience think and wonder what the answer might be. This will immediately pique their interest and encourage them to listen closely.
• Create a mystery : Introduce a problem or situation without revealing the solution right away. Gradually provide clues or pieces of information, allowing your audience to follow along and try to solve the puzzle themselves.
• Withhold information : Sometimes, less is more. Strategically withholding key pieces of information can create anticipation and keep your audience on the edge of their seats. Just be sure to deliver on the buildup and reveal the missing pieces at the right moment.
• Use cliffhangers : Break your speech into segments, and end each one with a compelling cliffhanger. This will make your audience eager to find out what happens next and maintain their attention throughout your presentation.
• Play with pacing : Vary the speed and rhythm of your speech to create tension and excitement. Slow down during crucial moments to build suspense, and then speed up when revealing important information or reaching a climax.

Remember, the key to building suspense and curiosity in your public speaking is to keep your audience guessing and actively engaged. By doing so, you'll not only make your presentation more entertaining but also help your listeners retain the information you're sharing.

When developing effective storytelling techniques for public speaking, the Rule of Three can be an invaluable tool. This principle is based on the idea that information presented in groups of three is more memorable, satisfying, and impactful. Here's how to make the most of the Rule of Three in your presentations:

• Organize your points : Structure your speech around three main points or ideas. This will help your audience follow along more easily and remember the key takeaways from your presentation.
• Use repetition : Repeating phrases, ideas, or themes in sets of three can create a sense of rhythm and emphasis. By doing so, you can make your message more memorable and persuasive.
• Create lists : When providing examples or elaborating on a concept, consider using lists of three items. This can make your speech more engaging and easier to digest, as it's a simple and familiar format for most people.
• Employ trios of adjectives or phrases : Using three descriptive words or phrases in a row can add emphasis and impact to your speech. For example, "Our product is simple, affordable, and effective."
• Structure stories with a beginning, middle, and end : When telling stories in your presentation, follow the classic three-part structure. This creates a natural narrative flow that is easy for your audience to follow and remember.

By utilizing the Rule of Three in your public speaking, you can make your content more engaging, memorable, and persuasive. Give it a try the next time you're crafting a speech or presentation, and watch how it transforms your storytelling approach.

Humor can be a powerful tool in public speaking, as it helps to create a connection with your audience and keep them engaged. However, it's important to use humor appropriately and effectively. Here are some tips to help you incorporate humor into your storytelling techniques for public speaking:

• Know your audience : Before using humor in your presentation, consider the demographics and preferences of your audience. What might be funny to one group could be offensive or confusing to another. Tailor your humor to suit your listeners.
• Be authentic : When using humor, try to be true to your own personality and style. It's much easier for your audience to connect with you when your jokes and anecdotes feel genuine and personal.
• Use relatable stories : Share funny stories or experiences that are relevant to your topic and relatable to your audience. This can help you create a sense of camaraderie and shared understanding.
• Keep it light : Humor should be used to enhance your presentation, not detract from it. Avoid controversial or offensive jokes, and don't let humor overshadow the main points you want to convey.
• Practice your timing : Good comedic timing is essential for landing a joke. Practice your delivery, and be prepared to pause for laughter or move on quickly if a joke doesn't land as expected.

When done correctly, incorporating humor into your storytelling techniques for public speaking can create a more enjoyable and memorable experience for your audience. Just remember to be authentic, relatable, and respectful, and you'll be sure to leave a lasting impression.

One of the most effective storytelling techniques for public speaking is to include an unexpected twist or surprise in your story. This can create a memorable moment that keeps your audience engaged and thinking about your message long after your presentation is over. Here are some tips on how to develop storytelling techniques with a twist:

• Find the unexpected : Look for stories or experiences that have an element of surprise or an unexpected outcome. These are the stories that will capture your audience's attention and make them eager to hear more.
• Build anticipation : Set the stage for your twist by building anticipation and suspense throughout your story. This can be done by foreshadowing the twist, creating tension, or setting up a mystery that needs to be solved.
• Timing is everything : Deliver the twist at just the right moment to maximize its impact. This could be at the climax of your story, or as a sudden reveal after you've built up suspense.
• Make it relatable : To make your twist truly memorable, ensure it's relevant to your overall message and resonates with your audience. This will help them connect the twist to your key points and remember it more easily.
• Practice your delivery : Like any other storytelling technique, practice is key to perfecting your twist. Work on your pacing, tone, and delivery to ensure the twist is revealed smoothly and effectively.

By incorporating twists and surprises into your stories, you can create a captivating and memorable experience for your audience. Remember to be relatable, build anticipation, and practice your delivery to make the most of this powerful storytelling technique for public speaking.

If you enjoyed reading about public speaking and want to further develop your presentation skills, don't miss George Dyson's workshop ' Public Speaking: How to Make a Presentation '. This workshop will provide you with valuable techniques and insights to help you captivate your audience and deliver an engaging presentation.

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15 Powerful Speech Opening Lines (And How to Create Your Own)

Hrideep barot.

• Public Speaking , Speech Writing

Powerful speech opening lines set the tone and mood of your speech. It’s what grips the audience to want to know more about the rest of your talk.

The first few seconds are critical. It’s when you have maximum attention of the audience. And you must capitalize on that!

Instead of starting off with something plain and obvious such as a ‘Thank you’ or ‘Good Morning’, there’s so much more you can do for a powerful speech opening (here’s a great article we wrote a while ago on how you should NOT start your speech ).

To help you with this, I’ve compiled some of my favourite openings from various speakers. These speakers have gone on to deliver TED talks , win international Toastmaster competitions or are just noteworthy people who have mastered the art of communication.

After each speaker’s opening line, I have added how you can include their style of opening into your own speech. Understanding how these great speakers do it will certainly give you an idea to create your own speech opening line which will grip the audience from the outset!

Alright! Let’s dive into the 15 powerful speech openings…

Note: Want to take your communications skills to the next level? Book a complimentary consultation with one of our expert communication coaches. We’ll look under the hood of your hurdles and pick two to three growth opportunities so you can speak with impact!

1. Ric Elias

Opening: “Imagine a big explosion as you climb through 3,000 ft. Imagine a plane full of smoke. Imagine an engine going clack, clack, clack. It sounds scary. Well I had a unique seat that day. I was sitting in 1D.”

How to use the power of imagination to open your speech?

Putting your audience in a state of imagination can work extremely well to captivate them for the remainder of your talk.

It really helps to bring your audience in a certain mood that preps them for what’s about to come next. Speakers have used this with high effectiveness by transporting their audience into an imaginary land to help prove their point.

When Ric Elias opened his speech, the detail he used (3000 ft, sound of the engine going clack-clack-clack) made me feel that I too was in the plane. He was trying to make the audience experience what he was feeling – and, at least in my opinion, he did.

When using the imagination opening for speeches, the key is – detail. While we want the audience to wander into imagination, we want them to wander off to the image that we want to create for them. So, detail out your scenario if you’re going to use this technique.

Make your audience feel like they too are in the same circumstance as you were when you were in that particular situation.

2. Barack Obama

Opening: “You can’t say it, but you know it’s true.”

3. Seth MacFarlane

Opening: “There’s nowhere I would rather be on a day like this than around all this electoral equipment.” (It was raining)

How to use humour to open your speech?

When you use humour in a manner that suits your personality, it can set you up for a great speech. Why? Because getting a laugh in the first 30 seconds or so is a great way to quickly get the audience to like you.

And when they like you, they are much more likely to listen to and believe in your ideas.

Obama effortlessly uses his opening line to entice laughter among the audience. He brilliantly used the setting (the context of Trump becoming President) and said a line that completely matched his style of speaking.

Saying a joke without really saying a joke and getting people to laugh requires you to be completely comfortable in your own skin. And that’s not easy for many people (me being one of them).

If the joke doesn’t land as expected, it could lead to a rocky start.

Keep in mind the following when attempting to deliver a funny introduction:

• Know your audience: Make sure your audience gets the context of the joke (if it’s an inside joke among the members you’re speaking to, that’s even better!). You can read this article we wrote where we give you tips on how you can actually get to know your audience better to ensure maximum impact with your speech openings
• The joke should suit your natural personality. Don’t make it look forced or it won’t elicit the desired response
• Test the opening out on a few people who match your real audience. Analyze their response and tweak the joke accordingly if necessary
• Starting your speech with humour means your setting the tone of your speech. It would make sense to have a few more jokes sprinkled around the rest of the speech as well as the audience might be expecting the same from you

4. Mohammed Qahtani

Opening: Puts a cigarette on his lips, lights a lighter, stops just before lighting the cigarette. Looks at audience, “What?”

5. Darren Tay

Opening: Puts a white pair of briefs over his pants.

How to use props to begin your speech?

The reason props work so well in a talk is because in most cases the audience is not expecting anything more than just talking. So when a speaker pulls out an object that is unusual, everyone’s attention goes right to it.

It makes you wonder why that prop is being used in this particular speech.

The key word here is unusual . To grip the audience’s attention at the beginning of the speech, the prop being used should be something that the audience would never expect. Otherwise, it just becomes something that is common. And common = boring!

What Mohammed Qahtani and Darren Tay did superbly well in their talks was that they used props that nobody expected them to.

By pulling out a cigarette and lighter or a white pair of underwear, the audience can’t help but be gripped by what the speaker is about to do next. And that makes for a powerful speech opening.

6. Simon Sinek

Opening: “How do you explain when things don’t go as we assume? Or better, how do you explain when others are able to achieve things that seem to defy all of the assumptions?”

7. Julian Treasure

Opening: “The human voice. It’s the instrument we all play. It’s the most powerful sound in the world. Probably the only one that can start a war or say “I love you.” And yet many people have the experience that when they speak people don’t listen to them. Why is that? How can we speak powerfully to make change in the world?”

How to use questions to open a speech?

I use this method often. Starting off with a question is the simplest way to start your speech in a manner that immediately engages the audience.

But we should keep our questions compelling as opposed to something that is fairly obvious.

I’ve heard many speakers start their speeches with questions like “How many of us want to be successful?”

No one is going to say ‘no’ to that and frankly, I just feel silly raising my hand at such questions.

Simon Sinek and Jullian Treasure used questions in a manner that really made the audience think and make them curious to find out what the answer to that question is.

What Jullian Treasure did even better was the use of a few statements which built up to his question. This made the question even more compelling and set the theme for what the rest of his talk would be about.

So think of what question you can ask in your speech that will:

• Set the theme for the remainder of your speech
• Not be something that is fairly obvious
• Be compelling enough so that the audience will actually want to know what the answer to that question will be

8. Aaron Beverley

Opening: Long pause (after an absurdly long introduction of a 57-word speech title). “Be honest. You enjoyed that, didn’t you?”

How to use silence for speech openings?

The reason this speech opening stands out is because of the fact that the title itself is 57 words long. The audience was already hilariously intrigued by what was going to come next.

But what’s so gripping here is the way Aaron holds the crowd’s suspense by…doing nothing. For about 10 to 12 seconds he did nothing but stand and look at the audience. Everyone quietened down. He then broke this silence by a humorous remark that brought the audience laughing down again.

When going on to open your speech, besides focusing on building a killer opening sentence, how about just being silent?

It’s important to keep in mind that the point of having a strong opening is so that the audience’s attention is all on you and are intrigued enough to want to listen to the rest of your speech.

Silence is a great way to do that. When you get on the stage, just pause for a few seconds (about 3 to 5 seconds) and just look at the crowd. Let the audience and yourself settle in to the fact that the spotlight is now on you.

I can’t put my finger on it, but there is something about starting the speech off with a pure pause that just makes the beginning so much more powerful. It adds credibility to you as a speaker as well, making you look more comfortable and confident on stage. 

If you want to know more about the power of pausing in public speaking , check out this post we wrote. It will give you a deeper insight into the importance of pausing and how you can harness it for your own speeches. You can also check out this video to know more about Pausing for Public Speaking:

9. Dan Pink

Opening: “I need to make a confession at the outset here. Little over 20 years ago, I did something that I regret. Something that I’m not particularly proud of. Something that in many ways I wish no one would ever know but that here I feel kind of obliged to reveal.”

10. Kelly McGonigal

Opening: “I have a confession to make. But first I want you to make a little confession to me.”

How to use a build-up to open your speech?

When there are so many amazing ways to start a speech and grip an audience from the outset, why would you ever choose to begin your speech with a ‘Good morning?’.

That’s what I love about build-ups. They set the mood for something awesome that’s about to come in that the audience will feel like they just have to know about.

Instead of starting a speech as it is, see if you can add some build-up to your beginning itself. For instance, in Kelly McGonigal’s speech, she could have started off with the question of stress itself (which she eventually moves on to in her speech). It’s not a bad way to start the speech.

But by adding the statement of “I have a confession to make” and then not revealing the confession for a little bit, the audience is gripped to know what she’s about to do next and find out what indeed is her confession.

11. Tim Urban

Opening: “So in college, I was a government major. Which means that I had to write a lot of papers. Now when a normal student writes a paper, they might spread the work out a little like this.”

12. Scott Dinsmore

Opening: “8 years ago, I got the worst career advice of my life.”

How to use storytelling as a speech opening?

“The most powerful person in the world is the storyteller.” Steve Jobs

Storytelling is the foundation of good speeches. Starting your speech with a story is a great way to grip the audience’s attention. It makes them yearn to want to know how the rest of the story is going to pan out.

Tim Urban starts off his speech with a story dating back to his college days. His use of slides is masterful and something we all can learn from. But while his story sounds simple, it does the job of intriguing the audience to want to know more.

As soon as I heard the opening lines, I thought to myself “If normal students write their paper in a certain manner, how does Tim write his papers?”

Combine such a simple yet intriguing opening with comedic slides, and you’ve got yourself a pretty gripping speech.

Scott Dismore’s statement has a similar impact. However, just a side note, Scott Dismore actually started his speech with “Wow, what an honour.”

I would advise to not start your talk with something such as that. It’s way too common and does not do the job an opening must, which is to grip your audience and set the tone for what’s coming.

13. Larry Smith

Opening: “I want to discuss with you this afternoon why you’re going to fail to have a great career.”

14. Jane McGonigal

Opening: “You will live 7.5 minutes longer than you would have otherwise, just because you watched this talk.”

How to use provocative statements to start your speech?

Making a provocative statement creates a keen desire among the audience to want to know more about what you have to say. It immediately brings everyone into attention.

Larry Smith did just that by making his opening statement surprising, lightly humorous, and above all – fearful. These elements lead to an opening statement which creates so much curiosity among the audience that they need to know how your speech pans out.

This one time, I remember seeing a speaker start a speech with, “Last week, my best friend committed suicide.” The entire crowd was gripped. Everyone could feel the tension in the room.

They were just waiting for the speaker to continue to know where this speech will go.

That’s what a hard-hitting statement does, it intrigues your audience so much that they can’t wait to hear more! Just a tip, if you do start off with a provocative, hard-hitting statement, make sure you pause for a moment after saying it.

Silence after an impactful statement will allow your message to really sink in with the audience.

Related article: 5 Ways to Grab Your Audience’s Attention When You’re Losing it!

15. Ramona J Smith

Opening: In a boxing stance, “Life would sometimes feel like a fight. The punches, jabs and hooks will come in the form of challenges, obstacles and failures. Yet if you stay in the ring and learn from those past fights, at the end of each round, you’ll be still standing.”

How to use your full body to grip the audience at the beginning of your speech?

In a talk, the audience is expecting you to do just that – talk. But when you enter the stage and start putting your full body into use in a way that the audience does not expect, it grabs their attention.

Body language is critical when it comes to public speaking. Hand gestures, stage movement, facial expressions are all things that need to be paid attention to while you’re speaking on stage. But that’s not I’m talking about here.

Here, I’m referring to a unique use of the body that grips the audience, like how Ramona did. By using her body to get into a boxing stance, imitating punches, jabs and hooks with her arms while talking – that’s what got the audience’s attention.

The reason I say this is so powerful is because if you take Ramona’s speech and remove the body usage from her opening, the entire magic of the opening falls flat.

While the content is definitely strong, without those movements, she would not have captured the audience’s attention as beautifully as she did with the use of her body.

So if you have a speech opening that seems slightly dull, see if you can add some body movement to it.

If your speech starts with a story of someone running, actually act out the running. If your speech starts with a story of someone reading, actually act out the reading.

It will make your speech opening that much more impactful.

Related article: 5 Body Language Tips to Command the Stage

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Final Words

So there it is! 15 speech openings from some of my favourite speeches. Hopefully, these will act as a guide for you to create your own opening which is super impactful and sets you off on the path to becoming a powerful public speaker!

But remember, while a speech opening is super important, it’s just part of an overall structure.

If you’re serious about not just creating a great speech opening but to improve your public speaking at an overall level, I would highly recommend you to check out this course: Acumen Presents: Chris Anderson on Public Speaking on Udemy. Not only does it have specific lectures on starting and ending a speech, but it also offers an in-depth guide into all the nuances of public speaking. 

Being the founder of TED Talks, Chris Anderson provides numerous examples of the best TED speakers to give us a very practical way of overcoming stage fear and delivering a speech that people will remember. His course has helped me personally and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to learn public speaking. 

No one is ever “done” learning public speaking. It’s a continuous process and you can always get better. Keep learning, keep conquering and keep being awesome!

Lastly, if you want to know how you should NOT open your speech, we’ve got a video for you:

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7 Proven Techniques to Improve the Attractiveness of Your Voice

Welcome to this blog post on “How to make your voice attractive?” Have you ever wondered why some people seem to have a captivating voice while others struggle to keep people interested? Your voice is an incredibly powerful tool; how you use it can significantly impact how others perceive you. Whether you want to improve your public speaking skills, sound more confident in job interviews, or have a more engaging speaking voice in your day-to-day life, this blog post is for you. 

This post will tell you “ how to make your voice attractive ,” powerful, and captivating. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make your voice work for you!

Understanding the elements of an attractive voice:

          Source: Pexels

Have you ever found yourself completely mesmerized by someone’s voice? It’s common to be drawn in by the sound of someone’s voice, whether the lilt of their accent or the way they enunciate their words. But what exactly makes a voice attractive? Let’s dive into the elements that make up an alluring voice.

Tone and Pitch:

The tone and pitch of a voice are the most important factors in determining its attractiveness. A warm, rich tone is generally more pleasant than a harsh, shrill one. Similarly, a voice with a slightly lower pitch can be more appealing than one that is too high-pitched or monotone.

Breath Control and Pacing:

Another crucial element of an attractive voice is breath control and pacing. Someone who speaks in a rushed, breathless manner can be difficult to listen to and may appear anxious or nervous. Conversely, a speaker who takes time and uses proper breath control can sound more relaxed, confident, and engaging.

Pronunciation and Articulation:

How a person pronounces words and articulates their speech can also greatly impact the attractiveness of their voice. Clear pronunciation is key to effective communication and can make a voice more pleasant. In contrast, a speaker who mumbles or slurs their words can be difficult to understand and may be unprofessional or uneducated.

Volume and Projection:

Finally, the volume and projection of a person’s voice can also play a role in its attractiveness. A voice that is too quiet or loud can distract or even annoy listeners. A speaker who projects their voice effectively and adjusts their volume as needed can command attention and make their message more impactful.

The elements of an attractive voice can vary from person to person, but some general principles can help anyone improve their vocal appeal. By paying attention to tone and pitch, breath control and pacing, pronunciation and articulation, and volume and projection, anyone can learn to speak with a more engaging and attractive voice. So go ahead and practice your speaking skills – who knows, you might just become the next voice that people can’t help but love to listen to!

7 Techniques to Improve the Attractiveness of Your Voice:

        Source: Pexels

Do you want to captivate your audience with your voice? Whether you’re a public speaker, a podcaster, or someone who wants to improve their speaking skills, having an attractive voice is essential. The good news is there are proven techniques you can use to enhance the appeal of your voice. Now we’ll share with you seven techniques to improve the attractiveness of your voice. So, let’s dive in!

1-Improve Your Posture and Breathing Technique:

How you stand or sit can greatly impact the sound of your voice. Proper posture helps you project your voice better and doesn’t strain your vocal cords. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart when standing, relax your shoulders, and align your spine. When sitting, sit up straight, and avoid slouching.

Your breathing technique also plays a vital role in the sound of your voice. Make sure to breathe deeply from your diaphragm rather than shallowly from your chest. This will help you produce a more resonant and powerful voice.

2-Practice Vocal Exercises:

Like any other muscle, your vocal cords need exercise to stay in shape. Vocal exercises can warm your voice and improve your vocal range. Some popular vocal exercises include humming, lip trills, and tongue twisters. These exercises can help you develop better control over your voice and make it more attractive.

3-Focus on Articulation:

Clear articulation is essential for effective communication. Focus on enunciating your words clearly and avoid mumbling. To improve your articulation, practice speaking slowly and pronouncing each word carefully. You can also try tongue twisters to improve your diction.

4-Improve Your Tone:

Your tone can greatly affect the way people perceive your message. A monotone voice can make your audience bored, while a dynamic and expressive voice can keep them engaged. To improve your tone, try to vary the pitch and pace of your voice. Speak with enthusiasm and emotion to convey your message effectively.

5-Pay Attention to Your Pronunciation:

Proper pronunciation is essential for clear communication. Incorrect pronunciation can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations. To improve your pronunciation, listen carefully to native speakers, and practice imitating their pronunciation. You can also use online pronunciation guides and apps to help you practice.

6-Develop Confidence:

Confidence is key to a captivating voice. When you speak with confidence, your voice will naturally sound more attractive. To develop confidence, practice speaking in front of a mirror, or record yourself speaking and listen to the recording. This will help you identify areas where you need to improve and build confidence.

7-Seek Professional Help:

If you’re serious about improving the attractiveness of your voice, consider seeking professional help. A vocal coach can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and provide personalized training to improve your voice. They can also help you develop good habits and prevent bad ones.

Your voice is a powerful tool for communication. By using the techniques we’ve shared, you can improve the attractiveness of your voice and captivate your audience. Remember to practice regularly, be patient, and seek professional help. With time and effort, you can develop an attractive and effective voice conveying your message.

Q1. What can I do to make my voice sound more attractive?

You can make your voice sound more attractive by practicing proper breathing techniques, speaking at an appropriate pace, and varying the pitch and tone of your voice.

Q2. Can I improve the sound of my voice by doing exercises?

Yes, you can improve the sound of your voice by doing exercises such as singing, humming, and practicing vocal warm-ups to strengthen your vocal cords and improve your range.

Q3. Are there any foods or drinks that can help improve my voice?

Certain foods and drinks can help improve your voice, such as warm water with honey and lemon, ginger tea, and foods rich in Vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and berries. It’s also important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, making your voice attractive requires some intentional effort and practice. It’s important to focus on proper breathing techniques, good posture, and clear articulation when speaking. Additionally, paying attention to the tone and pitch of your voice can significantly impact how others perceive you.

Finding your natural speaking voice and being confident in it can also go a long way in making your voice more attractive. Consistency in these practices and incorporating personal style and personality can ultimately lead to a more attractive and engaging speaking voice.

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3 easy public speaking techniques to make your presentation attractive

Effective public speaking techniques.

In this article, we talk about three public speaking skills which make your presentation attractive and memorable. One of the essential public speaking techniques for each speaker is to have an attractive presentation. We taught you how to design your performance in “ public speaking skills ” and “ brain filtering system .” In this article, we want to show you how to be a more attractive speaker.

What makes a presentation attractive?

When it comes to public speaking techniques and skills, one of the most important of all is how to have an attractive presentation. It means we have to do something so that the audience will be all ears to listen to us and not only they are not waiting for the show to finish but also they won’t even notice the passing time.

In public speaking, we have to use these skills: 1- Be excited 2- Storytelling 3- applied topic

So stay with us to know more about these essential skills.

1- excitement

One of the public speaking techniques is to be exciting.

Imagine you are in a presentation. The speaker talks with a loud voice and he’s very excited. He moves too much, and he’s energetic. You may like his performance for a while, but you’ll get bored eventually. The speaker must be excited and energetic, but he has to talk slower and have fewer moves to impress the audience. The speech must have ups and downs. Not active all the time and not boring from the beginning till the end. It’s these ups and downs that make your presentation attractive.

If everything seems steady, no matter how exciting and effective it is, it will get boring and repetitious. We have to be the one who changes the mood and be energetic or slow whenever it’s necessary. Being exciting is an essential factor to be a speaker because this way the audience will notice us from the beginning till the end. If there is no excitement in our presentation, it will be steady, and people get distracted so they won’t pay attention to what we are saying.

On the other hand, note that as I said before too much energy will not make your presentation attractive and the audience considers it steady and unacceptable. Being energetic and excited can be used to have an attractive presentation, but we can see it the other way around. It means we consider passion to be one of the essential elements for public speaking.

Storytelling as one of the public speaking techniques

We have to learn public speaking techniques and one of them is storytelling.

One of the most important public speaking skills is storytelling . This element is so essential that institutes hold many workshops about it all around the world and train people to get better at storytelling.

In one of the researches at Stanford University, the students remembered 65% of a presentation which contained stories and only 5% of the parts which involved with statistics and numbers. This one research shows the importance of storytelling.

Stories bring passion and excitement. Everyone wants to know the rest of the story so the atmosphere won’t be boring and tiring. The more detailed the story is, the more memorable and effective it can be. You have to choose related stories and use them to make your presentation attractive. When you start your presentation with a story, people will pay more attention to you and it makes your presentation more attractive. Practice your story before the performance to have more dominant over the crucial parts.

Remember that we can use tell stories even in training and scientific presentations because it has more effect on the audience.

Applied topic as a public speaking technique

We have to know how to make a topic worth listening. It has to be applied. Imagine a speech full of scientific details and hard idioms. People can’t process all this data or even remember it. Also if they remember it, there are a bunch of expressions they are never going to use. They might even regret participating in this presentation. The audience must be able to get a result from the presentation, so the speech needs to be clear, short and compelling. The audience has to use the advice and guidance in real life and work.

Public speaking techniques are very important and one of them is call to action

Best way to make a presentation effective and operational is “ Call to Action .” In this method the speaker wants the audience to do something at the end of the speech.

Most speakers don’t have a clear call to action so the audience will forget soon and thinks there is nothing useful in the presentation. You have to avoid abstract words and details to make your presentation attractive, operational and useful. Use clear and concrete words so that the audience knows what do you exactly mean.

hope you use these public speaking techniques to make your presentation attractive and the audience never brain filter your speech.

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How To Start a Presentation: 15 Ways to Set the Stage

By Krystle Wong , Jul 25, 2023

The opening moments of your presentation hold immense power – it’s your opportunity to make a lasting impression and captivate your audience. 

A strong presentation start acts as a beacon, cutting through the noise and instantly capturing the attention of your listeners. With so much content vying for their focus, a captivating opening ensures that your message stands out and resonates with your audience.

Whether you’re a startup business owner pitching a brilliant idea, a seasoned presenter delivering a persuasive talk or an expert sharing your experience, the start of your presentation can make all the difference. But don’t fret — I’ve got you covered with 15 electrifying ways to kickstart your presentation. 

The presentation introduction examples in this article cover everything from self-introduction to how to start a group presentation, building anticipation that leaves the audience eager to delve into the depths of your topic.

Click to jump ahead:

How to start a presentation introduction

15 ways to start a presentation and captivate your audience, common mistakes to avoid in the opening of a presentation, faqs on how to start a presentation, captivate the audience from the get-go.

Presentations can be scary, I know. But even if stage fright hits, you can always fall back on a simple strategy.

Just take a deep breath, introduce yourself and briefly explain the topic of your presentation.

To grab attention at the start, try this opening line: Hello everyone. I am so glad you could join me today. I’m very excited about today’s topic. I’m [Your Name] and I’ll be talking about [Presentation Topic]. Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by [Challenge related to your topic]. Many of us might have faced challenges with [Challenge related to your topic]. Today, we’ll explore some strategies that’ll help us [Solution that you’re presenting].

Regardless of your mode of presentation , crafting an engaging introduction sets the stage for a memorable presentation.

Let’s dive into some key tips for how to start a presentation speech to help you nail the art of starting with a bang:

Understand your audience

The key to an engaging introduction is to know your audience inside out and give your audience what they want. Tailor your opening to resonate with their specific interests, needs and expectations. Consider what will captivate them and how you can make your presentation relevant to their lives or work.

Use a compelling hook

Grab the audience’s attention from the get-go with a compelling hook. Whether it’s a thought-provoking question, a surprising fact or a gripping story, a powerful opening will immediately pique their curiosity and keep them invested in what you have to say.

State your purpose

Be crystal clear about your subject matter and the purpose of your presentation. In just a few sentences, communicate the main objectives and the value your audience will gain from listening to you. Let them know upfront what to expect and they’ll be more likely to stay engaged throughout.

Introduce yourself and your team

Give a self introduction about who you are such as your job title to establish credibility and rapport with the audience.

Some creative ways to introduce yourself in a presentation would be by sharing a brief and engaging personal story that connects to your topic or the theme of your presentation. This approach instantly makes you relatable and captures the audience’s attention.

Now, let’s talk about — how to introduce team members in a presentation. Before introducing each team member, briefly explain their role or contribution to the project or presentation. This gives the audience an understanding of their relevance and expertise.

Group presentations are also a breeze with the help of Venngage. Our in-editor collaboration tools allow you to edit presentations side by side in real-time. That way, you can seamlessly hare your design with the team for input and make sure everyone is on track. 

Maintain enthusiasm

Enthusiasm is contagious! Keep the energy levels up throughout your introduction, conveying a positive and upbeat tone. A vibrant and welcoming atmosphere sets the stage for an exciting presentation and keeps the audience eager to hear more.

Before you think about how to present a topic, think about how to design impactful slides that can leave a lasting impression on the audience. Here are 120+ presentation ideas , design tips, and examples to help you create an awesome slide deck for your next presentation.

Captivating your audience from the get-go is the key to a successful presentation. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or a novice taking the stage for the first time, the opening of your presentation sets the tone for the entire talk. 

So, let’s get ready to dive into the 15 most creative ways to start a presentation. I promise you these presentation introduction ideas will captivate your audience, leaving them hanging on your every word.

Grab-attention immediately

Ask a thought-provoking question.

Get the audience’s wheels turning by throwing them a thought-provoking question right out of the gate. Make them ponder, wonder and engage their critical thinking muscles from the very start.

Share a surprising statistic or fact

Brace yourself for some wide eyes and dropped jaws! Open your presentation with a jaw-dropping statistic or a mind-blowing fact that’s directly related to your topic. Nothing captures attention like a good ol’ dose of shock and awe.

State a bold statement or challenge

Ready to shake things up? Kick off with a bold and daring statement that sets the stage for your presentation’s epic journey. Boldness has a way of making ears perk up and eyes widen in anticipation!

Engage with a poll or interactive activity

Turn the audience from passive listeners to active participants by kicking off with a fun poll or interactive activity. Get them on their feet, or rather — their fingertips, right from the start!

Venngage’s user-friendly drag-and-drop editor allows you to easily transform your slides into an interactive presentation . Create clickable buttons or navigation elements within your presentation to guide your audience to different sections or external resources. 

Enhance engagement by incorporating videos or audio clips directly into your presentation. Venngage supports video and audio embedding, which can add depth to your content.

Begin with an opening phrase that captures attention

Use opening phrases that can help you create a strong connection with your audience and make them eager to hear more about what you have to say. Remember to be confident, enthusiastic and authentic in your delivery to maximize the impact of your presentation.

Here are some effective presentation starting words and phrases that can help you grab your audience’s attention and set the stage for a captivating presentation:

• “Imagine…”
• “Picture this…”
• “Did you know that…”
• “Have you ever wondered…”
• “In this presentation, we’ll explore…”
• “Let’s dive right in and discover…”
• “I’m excited to share with you…”
• “I have a confession to make…”
• “I want to start by telling you a story…”
• “Before we begin, let’s consider…”
• “Have you ever faced the challenge of…”
• “We all know that…”
• “This is a topic close to my heart because…”
• “Over the next [minutes/hours], we’ll cover…”
• “I invite you to journey with me through…”

Build connection and credibility

Begin with a personal connection .

Share a real-life experience or a special connection to the topic at hand. This simple act of opening up creates an instant bond with the audience, turning them into your biggest cheerleaders.

Having the team share their personal experiences is also a good group presentation introduction approach. Team members can share their own stories that are related to the topic to create an emotional connection with your audience. 

Tell a relevant story

Start your presentation with a riveting story that hooks your audience and relates to your main message. Stories have a magical way of captivating hearts and minds. Organize your slides in a clear and sequential manner and use visuals that complement your narrative and evoke emotions to engage the audience.

With Venngage, you have access to a vast library of high-quality and captivating stock photography, offering thousands of options to enrich your presentations. The best part? It’s entirely free! Elevate your visual storytelling with stunning images that complement your content, captivate your audience and add a professional touch to your presentation. 

Use a powerful quote

Sometimes, all you need is some wise words to work wonders. Begin with a powerful quote from a legendary figure that perfectly fits your presentation’s theme — a dose of inspiration sets the stage for an epic journey.

Build anticipation

Provide a brief outline.

Here’s a good introduction for presentation example if you’re giving a speech at a conference. For longer presentations or conferences with multiple speakers especially, providing an outline helps the audience stay focused on the key takeaways. That way, you can better manage your time and ensure that you cover all the key points without rushing or running out of time.

Pose a problem and offer a solution

A great idea on how to start a business presentation is to start by presenting a problem and offering a well-thought-out solution. By addressing their pain points and showcasing your solution, you’ll capture their interest and set the stage for a compelling and successful presentation.

Back up your solution with data, research, or case studies that demonstrate its effectiveness. This can also be a good reporting introduction example that adds credibility to your proposal.

Preparing a pitch deck can be a daunting task but fret not. This guide on the 30+ best pitch deck tips and examples has everything you need to bring on new business partners and win new client contracts. Alternatively, you can also get started by customizing one of our professional pitch deck templates for free. 

Incite curiosity in the audience

Utilize visuals or props.

Capture your audience’s gaze by whipping out captivating visuals or props that add an exciting touch to your subject. A well-placed prop or a stunning visual can make your presentation pop like a fireworks show!

That said, you maybe wondering — how can I make my presentation more attractive.  A well-designed presentation background instantly captures the audience’s attention and creates a positive first impression. Here are 15 presentation background examples to keep the audience awake to help you get inspired. 

Use humor or wit

Sprinkle some humor and wit to spice things up. Cracking a clever joke or throwing in a witty remark can break the ice and create a positively charged atmosphere. If you’re cracking your head on how to start a group presentation, humor is a great way to start a presentation speech. 

Get your team members involved in the fun to create a collaborative and enjoyable experience for everyone. Laughter is the perfect way to break the ice and set a positive tone for your presentation!

Invoke emotion

Get those heartstrings tugging! Start with a heartfelt story or example that stirs up emotions and connects with your audience on a personal level. Emotion is the secret sauce to a memorable presentation.

Aside from getting creative with your introduction, a well-crafted and creative presentation can boost your confidence as a presenter. Browse our catalog of creative presentation templates and get started right away!

Use a dramatic pause

A great group presentation example is to start with a powerful moment of silence, like a magician about to reveal their greatest trick. After introducing your team, allow a brief moment of silence. Hold the pause for a few seconds, making it feel deliberate and purposeful. This builds anticipation and curiosity among the audience.

Pique their interest

Share a fun fact or anecdote.

Time for a little fun and games! Kick-off with a lighthearted or fascinating fact that’ll make the audience go, “Wow, really? Tell me more!” A sprinkle of amusement sets the stage for an entertaining ride.

While an introduction for a presentation sets the tone for your speech, a good slide complements your spoken words, helping the audience better understand and remember your message. Check out these 12 best presentation software for 2023 that can aid your next presentation. 

The opening moments of a presentation can make or break your entire talk. It’s your chance to grab your audience’s attention, set the tone, and lay the foundation for a successful presentation. However, there are some common pitfalls that speakers often fall into when starting their presentations. 

Starting with Apologies

It might be tempting to start with a preemptive apology, especially if you’re feeling nervous or unsure about your presentation. However, beginning with unnecessary apologies or self-deprecating remarks sets a negative tone right from the start. Instead of exuding confidence and credibility, you’re unintentionally undermining yourself and your message. 

Reading from Slides

One of the most common blunders in the opening of a PowerPoint presentation is reading directly from your slides or script. While it’s crucial to have a well-structured outline, reciting word-for-word can lead to disengagement and boredom among your audience. Maintain eye contact and connect with your listeners as you speak. Your slides should complement your words, not replace them.

Overwhelming with Information

In the excitement to impress, some presenters bombard their audience with too much information right at the beginning.

Instead of overloading the audience with a sea of data, statistics or technical details that can quickly lead to confusion and disinterest, visualize your data with the help of Venngage. Choose an infographic template that best suits the type of data you want to visualize. Venngage offers a variety of pre-designed templates for charts, graphs, infographics and more.

Ignoring the Audience

It’s easy to get caught up in the content and forget about the people in front of you. Don’t overlook the importance of acknowledging the audience and building a connection with them. Greet them warmly, make eye contact and maintain body language to show genuine interest in their presence. Engage the audience early on by asking a show of hands question or encourage audience participation. 

Lack of Clarity

Your audience should know exactly what to expect from your presentation. Starting with a vague or unclear opening leaves them guessing about the purpose and direction of your talk. Clearly communicate the topic and objectives of your presentation right from the beginning. This sets the stage for a focused and coherent message that resonates with your audience.

Simplicity makes it easier for the audience to understand and retain the information presented. Check out our gallery of simple presentation templates to keep your opening concise and relevant. 

Skipping the Hook

The opening of your presentation is the perfect opportunity to hook your audience’s attention and keep them engaged. However, some presenters overlook this crucial aspect and dive straight into the content without any intrigue. Craft an attention-grabbing hook that sparks curiosity, poses a thought-provoking question or shares an interesting fact. A compelling opening is like the key that unlocks your audience’s receptivity to the rest of your presentation.

Now that you’ve got the gist of how to introduce a presentation, further brush up your speech with these tips on how to make a persuasive presentation and how to improve your presentation skills to create an engaging presentation . 

How can I overcome nervousness at the beginning of a presentation?

To overcome nervousness at the beginning of a presentation, take deep breaths, practice beforehand, and focus on connecting with your audience rather than worrying about yourself.

How long should the opening of a presentation be?

The opening of a presentation should typically be brief, lasting around 1 to 3 minutes, to grab the audience’s attention and set the tone for the rest of the talk.

Should I memorize my presentation’s opening lines?

While it’s helpful to know your opening lines, it’s better to understand the key points and flow naturally to maintain authenticity and flexibility during the presentation.

Should I use slides during the opening of my presentation?

Using slides sparingly during the opening can enhance the message, but avoid overwhelming the audience with too much information early on.

How do I transition smoothly from the opening to the main content of my presentation?

Transition smoothly from the opening to the main content by providing a clear and concise outline of what’s to come, signaling the shift and maintaining a logical flow between topics.

Just as a captivating opening draws your audience in, creating a well-crafted presentation closing has the power to leave a lasting impression. Wrap up in style with these 10 ways to end a presentation .

Presenting virtually? Check out these tips on how to ace your next online presentation . 

Captivating your audience from the very beginning is crucial for a successful presentation. The first few moments of your talk can set the tone and determine whether your audience remains engaged throughout or loses interest. 

Start with a compelling opening that grabs their attention. You can use a thought-provoking question, a surprising statistic or a powerful quote to pique their curiosity. Alternatively, storytelling can be a potent tool to draw them into your narrative. It’s essential to establish a personal connection early on, whether by sharing a relatable experience or expressing empathy towards their needs and interests.

Lastly, be mindful of your body language and vocal delivery. A confident and engaging speaker can captivate an audience, so make eye contact, use appropriate gestures and vary your tone to convey passion and sincerity.

In conclusion, captivating your audience from the very beginning requires thoughtful preparation, engaging content and a confident delivery. With Venngage’s customizable templates, you can adapt your presentation to suit the preferences and interests of your specific audience, ensuring maximum engagement. Go on and get started today!

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How to Make a “Good” Presentation “Great”

• Guy Kawasaki

Remember: Less is more.

A strong presentation is so much more than information pasted onto a series of slides with fancy backgrounds. Whether you’re pitching an idea, reporting market research, or sharing something else, a great presentation can give you a competitive advantage, and be a powerful tool when aiming to persuade, educate, or inspire others. Here are some unique elements that make a presentation stand out.

• Fonts: Sans Serif fonts such as Helvetica or Arial are preferred for their clean lines, which make them easy to digest at various sizes and distances. Limit the number of font styles to two: one for headings and another for body text, to avoid visual confusion or distractions.
• Colors: Colors can evoke emotions and highlight critical points, but their overuse can lead to a cluttered and confusing presentation. A limited palette of two to three main colors, complemented by a simple background, can help you draw attention to key elements without overwhelming the audience.
• Pictures: Pictures can communicate complex ideas quickly and memorably but choosing the right images is key. Images or pictures should be big (perhaps 20-25% of the page), bold, and have a clear purpose that complements the slide’s text.
• Layout: Don’t overcrowd your slides with too much information. When in doubt, adhere to the principle of simplicity, and aim for a clean and uncluttered layout with plenty of white space around text and images. Think phrases and bullets, not sentences.

As an intern or early career professional, chances are that you’ll be tasked with making or giving a presentation in the near future. Whether you’re pitching an idea, reporting market research, or sharing something else, a great presentation can give you a competitive advantage, and be a powerful tool when aiming to persuade, educate, or inspire others.

• Guy Kawasaki is the chief evangelist at Canva and was the former chief evangelist at Apple. Guy is the author of 16 books including Think Remarkable : 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference.

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18 Ways to Make Your Presentation More Interactive

November 10, 2017 - Dom Barnard

It can be difficult to hold your audience’s attention for the entire presentation. According to a  Prezi study , half of the respondents said they did something other than listen during a co-worker’s presentation, including:

• Sending a text message (28%)
• Checking emails (27%)
• Falling asleep (17%)

An interactive presentation is much more likely to keep your audience’s attention and build rapport with them, and there are a few simple ways to achieve this, from live polling to asking questions throughout.

This article explores several different effective strategies for making the audience feel fully involved in your presentation and keeping your audience’s eyes away from their smartphones.

Why involve your audience?

Listening to a presentation for any length of time can be a difficult process. If you don’t involve the audience, they’ll start to play with their phones, talk to colleagues and generally lose track of what you are saying. Once this happens and you start seeing that the audience would rather be somewhere else, you’ll start feeling anxious and might try to speed up the presentation.

To engage a  large audience  fully, the presentation needs to be energetic, purposeful and staged, as if it is a direct conversation between both you and your audience. That way, they’ll absorb your ideas and insights and they’ll have learnt something in an enjoyable way.

1. Plan from the audience’s perspective

Before you start  writing your presentation , think about these points:

• What are the most interesting parts in my topic?
• How much will the audience know about my topic? What level do I target it at?
• Which members of the audience will most likely be disinterested?
• How can I help them learn and understand my topic?
• What is the size of the audience?

You can do this by researching the event or conference, investigating other speakers at the event and even contacting the organisers to find out more about the demographic.

By asking these questions about your audience and identifying answers, you are starting to think about your audience’s interests and needs. Remember, the aim is to give the impression that your presentation has been planned according to your audience’s specific interests.

2. Use an easy-to-follow structure

When building your presentation, focus on giving it a structure which people can easily follow. Start by introducing the core concepts and goals, then elaborate on the various points in a bit more detail, draw logical conclusions and leave your audience with a clear takeaway message. You want to flow naturally from one part to the next like you are telling a big story chapter by chapter.

3. Get the audience immediately involved

You audience will come to your presentation in a range of different moods. Try using a simple ice-breaker to re-energise them and get them focussed on your presentation.

For example, ask people to stand up and introduce themselves to their neighbours, or have them identify two or three questions they would like to hear addressed during your presentation. By starting with an ice-breaker, you show your audience that your talk will be interactive and require their participation.

4. Ask the audience questions during your presentation

The audience’s attention drops to zero after just 10-15 minutes of your presentation. To get their attention back, take a break from your presentation from time to time and interact with your audience. Ask for their questions and answer them during your presentation. This will help clear up any confusion the audience might have.

When planning your presentation, identify opportunities in your material for your audience to ask questions. If you’re not comfortable breaking the flow of your presentation, mention that you’ll be taking  questions at the end  so the audience can prepare some questions.

Asking rhetorical questions as you move through your presentation involves your audience by stimulating their own thought processes. This technique also helps move between sections of your presentation as it establishes a clear transition from one point to another.

If you’re comfortable with taking questions throughout your presentation, use a tools such as  Slido , which allows your audience to ask questions anonymously at any time, so even shy people can participate in the discussion.

Example of what can go wrong with audience interaction

Audience interaction:

Watch how the presenter tries but initially fails to get the audience to interact with the presentation. Notice how he encourages them to get involved and eventually they do join in.

5. Use storytelling to make it more memorable

Since our early ancestors, stories have always been a huge part of human culture and civilisation. Storytelling is the most universal way to captivate your audience’s attention, no matter where they are from or what they do for a living.

Stories are much more engaging and memorable than lists of facts and figures, but you wouldn’t think so looking at the majority of presentations (particularly academic ones).

People automatically tune in when you  start telling your story  because they want to know what happens next. A popular storytelling technique is when you present the status quo and then reveal an improved path to that end goal.

Think of your presentation as one arching narrative. As we mentioned earlier, give it the proper structure with a clear beginning, middle and end. Introduce conflict and provide a powerful resolution that reinforces your key messages.

6. Use non-linear presentation software

Instead of flipping through slide after slide, you can show the relationships between your ideas and give your audience the “big picture” view of your topic. Try letting your audience drive the presentation by laying out all of your main points, and then let them choose which topics they want to go to. Your audience will get a truly custom presentation based on their interests, which they will appreciate and more easily remember.

Prezi, shown above, is a popular non-linear presentation tool.

7. Add in a short video

Billions of hours of YouTube are consumed each month and advertisers have identified videos as having a high  retention rate  for users. However very few presentations ever use videos to engage with their audience.

Find a short video clip that reinforces your story or explains a concept better than words can. You can either embed the video directly into your presentation software or include a link to an external website. Just make sure you test your method on the day of the presentation and have a backup on a USB just in case you need it.

8. Invite people onto the stage

If you’re preparing a particularly long presentation, consider having other people to come on stage and talk for a bit. This will help you narrate the story and make the whole presentation more interactive.

Steve Jobs never pulled off the entire presentation by himself; he always invited several speakers, including designers, partners, and other executives, to help him introduce their latest product. Of course, this technique should always be arranged with your colleagues in advance.

9. Poll the audience

Polls are similar to quizzes in that they engage the audience during the presentation. Polls encourage participants to think not only about your questions but also about their answers. Moreover, live polls help create mental breaks, so your audience can regain attention and stay focused throughout your presentation.

By including everyone in answering the question, you also create a group experience that leaves the audience feeling like they all have been part your presentation.

10. Use (appropriate) humour

Some of the best speeches and presentations in the world feature plenty of humour. No matter the subject, a great speaker will use natural charisma, humour and language to convey their points and get the crowd excited about what they are saying.

A great example of building rapport with the audience through the use of humour is Barrack Obama talking about the government building Iron Man.

Another example is when  Morgan Spurlock  offers individuals the opportunity to buy the rights to name his TED talk—which he refers to again at the end, where he reveals the title. He peppers the entire presentation with humorous commentary that nonetheless supports his point.

Create relevant jokes or find a way to bring out the humour in your subject, and your audience will be much more engaged and more likely to remember your words.

11. Practice your delivery, again and again

Practicing is the most important part of delivering an interactive presentation. You’ll need to practice where to use live quizzes, when to accept questions, which points to emphasise with body language and many more. There are several options for practicing:

Practice Presentation Skills

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• In front of a mirror  – great for seeing and improving your body language, however it can be distracting to what you are saying.
• To friends or colleagues  – a useful way to get feedback on your presentation, try and action the feedback straight away to improve on it. You can also give the person some key areas to focus their feedback on if you believe you are weaker in those areas.
• Virtual reality  – practice in realistic  public speaking environments , whether it be in a virtual conference room or boardroom. Receive feedback on your speech with voice analysis technology.

With all three of these, you’ll want to work on your tone of voice, accent, pauses between sentences and facial expressions. The most important thing is to talk slowly and loudly enough to be heard and understood clearly.

A list of the best presentation skills courses you can practice with:

• Presentation Skills Training Courses

12. Try and relate to the audience

Make comparisons to events from everyday life that most people are more than familiar with. By making things look simple, not only will you help your audience get a better understanding of the subject by enabling them to visualize the information more clearly, you will also draw a connection between you.

After all, you are all just regular people with similar experience, you just happen to be performing different roles at the moment.

13. Strong body language (position, posture and gesture)

Non-verbal communication plays a large part in how we construct meaning, so it makes sense to consider how to use it in your presentation. You can make things more interesting for your audience by using  your body language  to enhance what you’re saying.

Body language goes beyond reinforcing your messaging – it’s useful from a biological standpoint. As discussed in her  body language TED talk , Amy Cuddy’s research found that using ‘assertive’ body language released testosterone and reduced cortisol in both men and women, thereby increasing confidence and decreasing stress.

An effective presenter pays close attention to the physical relationship with her/his audience. If you stand hidden behind an overhead projector or stand too far away from your audience, they will not develop a bond with you and this will limit the effectiveness of your presentation.

Your posture will also dictate levels of audience involvement. If you’re too relaxed and sit slumped in a chair to deliver your talk, the audience might drift away. Find a comfortable but purposeful position in relation to your audience and adopt an upright sitting or standing posture that allows for movement and gesture.

Audiences respond well to the physical energy and enthusiasm being conveyed by a presenter, and thus the use of clear and controlled gestures will greatly enhance your presentation. Gestures that are open and reach out to your audience serve to extend your presentation to them and thus help them feel more involved.

Examples of good body language:

• Use hand gestures when delivering key points
• Use calm, deliberate movements when highlighting certain information
• Keep arms and legs uncrossed

14. Maintain eye contact with all sections of the audience

Making eye contact is one of the most  powerful techniques  for involving your audience. If used well, eye contact can serve to make your address much more personal and thus more effective. If eye contact is avoided, the presenter can appear to be nervous and unconvincing.

It is important to share eye contact with all members of a small audience or all sections of a large audience. Avoid making eye contact with just the people you know, taking particular care not to deliver your entire presentation to the person who’s assessing your work. Remember that you will need to involve the whole audience if you are to make an effective presentation.

If you are nervous, eye contact can be very difficult to establish and maintain. Remember that some eye contact is better than none and that you should try to build your confidence over time.

15. Use live quizzes to better understand your audience

Live quizzes are a great way to understanding your audience better get them engaging with the material.

For example, if you’re giving a presentation on autonomous vehicles, you could ask questions such as:

• When do you think autonomous vehicles will become mainstream?
• Are you concerned by safety issues?
• If someone is injured or killed by the car, who is to blame?

These will surely create some interesting results which you, as the presenter, can talk about and discuss.

16. Use physical props if possible

You don’t need to be giving a product demo to use props during your presentation. Props are a great way to help the audience visually picture what you are talking about. While talking through your presentation, you can refer to the prop at certain points to highlight your point or make it clear to the audience.

Kenny Nguyen  does this will in his TEDx talk on ‘The Art of Saying No’. He refers to the “sword of yes” and “shield of no.” Naturally he picks up a sword and shield from the table to help demonstrate his points.

Another great example is when  Jill Bolte Taylor  brings a real human brain on stage during her TED talk to explain to what happened to her when she had a stroke. She touched the audience with this demonstration and left the audience in complete awe.

17. Extend your usual vocal range

Your tone of voice, your volume, and other vocal aspects affect how people listen and hear your message.

Julian Treasure’s  TED talk on ‘How to speak so that people want to listen’ is all about this, and at the end offers several tips ‘in our toolbox’ for how to master the use of voice, from changing your speaking pace to speaking in a different pitch.

Get feedback from a friend or colleague to see what works best for you.

18. Use language and literary techniques

Your use of language has a huge influence on the way you engage your audience. It’s important to use language your audience understands and is familiar with.

Avoid using language that is too formal or informal, too technical or too simplistic depending upon the nature of your talk and the knowledge base of your audience. Pitching your presentation at the right level can be a challenge but it is very effective for making the audience feel involved.

There are various  literary techniques  you can use, such as the Power or Three, to give greater impact to your message.

Involving your audience is essential to making an impact. Your presentation should pull them in, get their attention and stimulate their thoughts and understanding. This can be done in a number of ways.

The way that you plan your presentation will be critical in terms of using language and ideas that your audience will understand. You must also ensure that there is sufficient time for questions and discussion. The way that you deliver your presentation should create a bond with your audience.

Your use of eye contact, body language, spoken words and energy should  communicate effectively  and enthusiastically with all areas of the room, thus ensuring that the audience receives positive messages about you and your material.

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CEO shares her No. 1 simple tactic for getting people to listen to her: 'Forget about trying to be confident'

If you want people to listen to you , you need to be clear and concise. Using "ums" and "uhs" in your next conversation or presentation won't help you get your point across.

A trick that you may have learned in grade school can help mitigate that, says Talia Fox, CEO of Washington, D.C.-based executive coaching firm KUSI Global and a public speaking coach for over 20 years.

To communicate effectively and keep herself on track, Fox leans on a five-point outline — the same kind you may have learned while writing essays in English class:

• One quick, attention-grabbing introduction
• Three core talking points that move your purpose forward
• One compelling statement to conclude your story

With this structure, "you could give me a topic and I can turn it into a speech on the spot," Fox tells CNBC Make It. "You can turn that into a one-minute talk, a 10-minute talk, a 20-minute talk or even an hour and a half talk."

The strategy's usefulness go beyond presentations, she says. Say you're asking your boss for a promotion, for example. In just three sentences, you can give them a clear, convincing argument with concrete examples of your contributions:

• I'd like to be considered for a role in upper management.
• I've consistently identified and solved problems for our team, effectively demonstrated leadership skills throughout my time here and fostered relationships across the organization.
• I'm positive that I've gone above and beyond my current job requirements, and I'd love to continue boosting company productivity in a more challenging role.

Once you have your words in place, you need one more element, Fox says: Exude confidence, even if you aren't 100% sure of yourself at that very moment.

"People think confidence is something that you need to have internally," she says. "The whole world, including billionaires, feel insecure. Forget about trying to be confident, it's going to be an up-and-down thing. But you can practice your posture, your voice tone, your eye contact. Try to know the behaviors that result in confidence."

You can calm your nerves before broaching any important conversation — the kind where you might need people to listen to you — by doing activities like taking a walk, meditating or practicing positive affirmations, ex-Disney recruiter Simon Taylor told Make It last year.

Even telling yourself things like "I'm capable" or "I'm confident" can help you "overcome nerves and get grounded," Taylor advised.

Want to make extra money outside of your day job?  Sign up for CNBC's new online course How to Earn Passive Income Online to learn about common passive income streams, tips to get started and real-life success stories. Register today and save 50% with discount code EARLYBIRD.

Plus, sign up for CNBC Make It's newsletter to get tips and tricks for success at work, with money and in life.

LAist is part of Southern California Public Radio, a member-supported public media network.

Today on AirTalk, the University of Southern California announced yesterday that its undergraduate valedictorian will not be permitted to speak at the school's graduation ceremony due to safety concerns. Also on the show, a flurry of new bills looks to answer how California can create more affordable housing on its coast; Dodgers great Ron “The Penguin” Cey visits the studio to talk about his new memoir; and more.

USC Cancels Valedictorian’s Graduation Speech, Citing Security Concerns

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How States Are Trying To Attract Film And TV Production

Dodgers great ron cey’s memoir recounts his unlikely journey to the big leagues.

The University of Southern California announced Monday that due to security concerns, its valedictorian would not be permitted to deliver a speech at the school’s graduation ceremony next month. The student, Asna Tabassum, has received criticism from some student groups on campus for some of the pro-Palestinian content she has posted, liked and linked to on social media. Others on social media and within the USC community have condemned the school’s decision and say that Tabassum’s right to free speech is being infringed upon. “While this is disappointing, tradition must give way to safety,” wrote USC Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Andrew T. Guzman in a letter to the USC community. It went on to say “To be clear: this decision has nothing to do with freedom of speech. There is no free-speech entitlement to speak at a commencement. The issue here is how best to maintain campus security and safety, period.” In her own statement , Tabassum wrote that she was shocked and disappointed by USC’s decision, adding “I am not surprised by those who attempt to propagate hatred. I am surprised that my own university—my home for four years—has abandoned me.” She said in her statement that her request for details on the university’s threat assessment was denied.

Today on AirTalk, UCLA Law Professor Eugene Volokh joins Larry to explore the balance of free speech and safety at the heart of this issue. We also want to hear from you -- if you were part of USC’s administration, how would you have handled this? Join our live conversation by calling us at 866-893-5722 or by emailing [email protected] .

We invited USC to join the conversation but they declined.

Incongruous Identities: Does Your Name Match How You See Yourself?

Everyone can probably agree that the great movie star Carey Grant did not look like Archibald Leach, his birth name. Carey Grant evokes a gentleman who’s graceful, handsome, and debonair while poor Archie Leach evokes…a chimney sweep? Even far outside of the star-making machine, many people feel like their identity doesn’t match their name–like the label on the tin doesn’t match the contents. Did you change your name because it didn’t complement who you are? Or is the opposite true–does your name fit you to a T? Why? We want to hear from you! Give us a call at 866-893-5722 or email us at [email protected] .

California Is Desperate For Affordable Housing, But Building On The Coast Reignites A Contentious Issue For Legislators And Residents

The issue of developing California’s coastline isn’t a new one, but a recent flurry of bills has kicked up a longstanding point of contention over how to create more affordable housing in some of the most desirable locations in the state. California’s iconic 840-mile coastline is largely protected by the California Coastal Commission, a state agency created in 1976 out of which came the Coastal Act . The new herd of bills, all from Democrats, seeks to create new housing opportunities in major cities along California’s coast. This move is opposed by a handful of environmental groups, both at the local and state level, who say coastal preservation should be a priority. Joining us today on AirTalk to discuss both sides of this issue is director of communications at California YIMBY, statewide pro-housing legal advocacy group, Matthew Lewis and board member of several environmental organizations and coastal advocate for the last decade, Robin Rudisill.

Last week, the California Film Commission announced $152 million in tax credits for 12 television projects, including the second season of the Amazon series, Fallout and the Ryan Murphy series, Grotesquerie . Although the economic benefits of tax credits have been debated , many states and countries offer incentives for production companies to film, and the competition for their business can be fierce. How is California competing in this environment? What are other states offering, and how do they go about it? Joining us to discuss are Colleen Bell , executive director, California Film Commission and Ryan Broussard , vice president of sales & production incentives for Wrapbook , a company that provides production payroll and accounting services .

For more than eight years during the 1970s, Ron “The Penguin” Cey was part of one of the best infield platoons in baseball. With Cey at third, Bill Russell at shortstop, Davey Lopes at second and Steve Garvey at first, the Dodgers won four National League pennants and helped propel L.A. to the 1981 World Series title, for which Cey was named co-MVP with teammates Pedro Guererro and Steve Yeager. The quartet remains the longest-running infield in Major League Baseball history. In his memoir “ Penguin Power: Dodger Blue, Hollywood Lights, and My One-in-a-Million Big League Journey ,” Cey and longtime Dodgers writer Ken Gurnick recount Cey’s part in the glory years of modern Dodgers baseball as well as his formative years as an athlete in Washington state, where he was a three-sport athlete in high school and became its first athlete to earn nine varsity letters before attending Washington State University and ultimately being drafted by the Dodgers in 1968.

Today on AirTalk, Ron Cey joins Larry to talk about his memoir.

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Brittany Tearfully Reveals Jax Didn’t Make Her “Feel Attractive”: “He Puts Me Down a Lot”

Brittany Cartwright cried as she talked about her marriage during a girls night on The Valley .

Girls night takes a serious turn on The Valley when Brittany Cartwright tearfully opened up about her marriage troubles, admitting that husband Jax Taylor doesn’t make her “feel attractive.” 

How to Watch

Watch  The Valley  on Bravo Tuesdays at 9/8c and next day on Peacock . Catch up on the Bravo app . 

Brittany made the heartbreaking admission in a new preview clip of Season 1, Episode 5 as the ladies gathered in their jammies for a fun-filled night of drinking and games. 

  “Describe the last sex you had,” a pregnant Janet Caperna read from one question card to kick off the festivities. 

While Janet happily described her last rendezvous in the bedroom with husband Jason , Brittany confessed that she and Jax were going through a difficult dry spell.

“Um, the last time I had sex? Um, probably like a month and a half ago at least,” she admitted. 

The others encouraged her to talk to Jax about the issue, but Brittany insisted the bar owner already “knows” her feelings. 

“It’s been a whole thing,” she said before breaking into tears. 

Brittany Cartwright says Jax Taylor doesn't always treat her well

Brittany opened up more about the marital woes to producers, saying that Jax could sometimes be  “really hard on" her.

Here's what you missed on Bravo:

Brittany Cartwright & Jax Taylor Reunite for Their Son's 3rd Birthday Bash (PICS)

Find Out Why Jax Taylor and Brittany Cartwright Reunited — and How Her Mom, Sherri, Played a Role

Why Tom Schwartz Thinks Brittany Cartwright & Jax Taylor’s Split Was “Necessary”

“He kind of puts me down a lot whether it’s about if I go out and have a girls night and don’t feel good the next day or the way I look,” she shared. 

Your partner is supposed to lift you up and make you feel good about yourself and I feel like he’s doing the opposite to me right now and that really sucks because I’ve been in his corner through all the sh-t he’s put me through. I’ve always stuck up for him, I’ve always believed in him and I just feel like I don’t get the same thing in return," she continued.

What has Brittany Cartwright said about her breakup with Jax?

The couple announced they were taking some time apart in February, just weeks before The Valley premiered .

Brittany told Page Six part of the reason for the split was because she didn’t feel valued in the relationship.

“We’ve been together nine years, and people stop appreciating and take you for granted after some time, and that should never happen in a marriage,” she explained at the time . “So, that’s what I’m trying to get back, and if it doesn’t come back, we won’t get back together.”

Brittany gave an update on the status of her relationship on an April 2 episode of Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen , admitting she was hopeful the couple would go to marriage counseling, but so far Jax has resisted the idea .

"Everything is kind of up in the air right now," she said of where the two stand today. "I feel like I'm really strong right now, I feel like I've grown a lot in the past couple years, especially after having Cruz, I've gotten so much stronger and I feel like I deserve better."

To find out more about the issues that drove the couple apart, tune in to The Valley Tuesday nights on Bravo or available streaming the next day on Peacock.

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• Jason Caperna
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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

How to make yourself more attractive, according to science

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In a world of failed first dates , we can often find ourselves wondering what we can do to seem more attractive .

We aren’t talking about physically – after all, looks are just a small part of what makes someone hot. We’re talking about how you behave, the words you say and the body language you display.

There’s one quality that psychotherapists say is the key to making someone fancy you.

The trait? Self-assurance.

Are we saying it’s fool proof? No. There’s always a chance that even when you’re your best self, you’re still not someone’s cup of tea – but that’s their loss.

Even so, if you display self-assurance on a date, it’s more likely your love interest is going to think you’re hot stuff.

Relational psychotherapist Claire Law tells Metro.co.uk: ‘In a relationship sense, self-assurance is a green flag that screams: “Hey, I know who I am. I’m comfortable in my own skin.”

‘Who wouldn’t want a partner like that? Someone who’s not constantly seeking validation or approval. A self-assured partner won’t be clingy or needy – they’ll have their own thing going on, which is really sexy.’

Self-assurance is also attractive because it hints at other positive qualities people look for in relationships.

‘These other qualities are emotional maturity, stability, and resilience,’ says Claire.

‘If you’re self-assured, you’re probably pretty good at managing your emotions, coping with stress and making decisions. These are all things that make for a solid, healthy relationship.’

It’s all well and good saying you should be self-assured but, if you’re not sure where to start, we’ve got you covered.

‘Self-assurance is such an attractive quality because it telegraphs a certain attitude to the world. Self-assured people tend to be more at peace with themselves… they’ve made their peace with their strengths and weaknesses,’ says Claire.

So, what are some specific self-assured behaviours on a date?

Picture this: you’ve just walked into the bar where your first date is and you’ve given your date a hug or a polite kiss on the cheek.

The first thing to make sure you focus on is confident body language.

‘Stand tall, make eye contact, smile warmly. Don’t fidget or cross your arms – that makes you look closed off and nervous,’ explains Claire.

A 2010 study in the journal of Psychological Science found that ‘power posing’ caused behavioural changes for both men and women.

By taking up a self-assured and confident stance participants were found to instantly become ‘more powerful’ – translating into ‘real-world, actionable implications’.

As well as non-verbal cues, there are other things you can do to seem self-assured.

‘Engage in balanced conversation. Ask your date questions, but also share about yourself. A self-assured person isn’t afraid to open up,’ Claire says.

While some of us can be shy about sharing our thoughts on a certain topic, because we’re afraid someone will disagree, giving your perspective on an issue is sexy.

‘Be decisive,’ Claire adds. ‘If your date asks for your opinion on something, give it. Don’t hem and haw or say “I don’t know, what do you think?” all the time.

‘Be willing to respectfully disagree. If you have a different opinion, voice it calmly and confidently. A self-assured person can handle a little friendly debate.

‘Order what you want, not what you think your date wants you to order. Speak up if you’re uncomfortable.’

While it’s nice to be validated by someone we’re attracted to, Claire says, it’s important we don’t seek constant reassurance.

‘A self-assured person doesn’t need their date to validate them at every turn. They’re not fishing for compliments,’ she adds.

If you do all these things, it’s likely the date has gone well – although always be receptive to feedback if you don’t get the desired response from them.

Lastly, Claire says: ‘End the date with clear communication. If you want to see them again, say so. If not, politely say you don’t feel a connection. Self-assured people are direct.’

If you’re implementing these tips on your next date, just remember that there’s a difference between self-assurance and being big-headed.

‘It’s about being true to yourself and communicating that authentically. Self-assurance isn’t about putting on an act or being arrogant,’ Claire says.

‘It’s about knowing your worth and embodying that in how you carry yourself and interact with others. And in the the wild world of dating, that kind of quiet confidence is incredibly appealing.’

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing [email protected] .

MORE : My husband of 7 years said he’s never been attracted to me

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5 Must-Try Real Estate Marketing Ideas That Will Attract Buyers By pursuing content marketing, real estate professionals grow their reputation and lay the foundation for future sales.

By Jessica Wong • Apr 18, 2024

Key Takeaways

• Content marketing helps build brand awareness, allows leading real estate agents to establish their authority within the sector, and generates leads.

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Real estate agents depend on powerful marketing strategies to engage buyers and close sales. In the age of digital marketing , for-sale signs on front lawns are no longer enough to convince sellers to choose a particular agent and to attract homebuyers. Technology-based marketing strategies like content marketing can set agents apart in a crowded marketplace and help them grow their businesses.

Content marketing in the real estate sector is about more than pitching properties to potential buyers. As an integral part of a comprehensive marketing strategy, this approach "provides useful and relevant content to your prospects and customers."

The goal is to establish relationships that will eventually lead to sales. Content marketing helps build brand awareness , allows leading real estate agents to establish their authority within the sector, and generates leads.

By pursuing content marketing, real estate professionals grow their reputation and lay the foundation for future sales.

Related: How To Build a Strong Real Estate Brand Online and Increase Trust With Clients

1. Identify target audiences and buyer personas

Before disseminating content, real estate businesses must define their target audiences and buyer personas . Without that step, the information risks getting lost and potentially alienating its audience.

For example, a young family looking to purchase their first home will look for different information than a couple of empty-nesters looking to downsize once their kids have left home. Real estate firms may be targeting both market segments. However, to reach them effectively, they must tailor their messages and choose their marketing channels wisely.

Determining audiences and personas goes beyond demographics. The most effective marketers understand their audiences' interests and address their pain points.

Related: Know Your Audience, Conquer the Market — The Importance of Buyer Personas in Franchise Marketing

2. Create compelling visual content

The term content marketing is often used synonymously with blogs and social media posts . However, visual content often has a greater impact when it comes to showcasing property.

High-quality images of an apartment or a house are the most basic form of visual content. Virtual tours or drone videos can attract even more attention and capture potential buyers' imagination.

Both options allow real estate agents to tell a story rather than sell a property. Imagine discovering a property for the first time: put yourself in the viewer's position and tell the story of their journey in a video. Another creative option would be to stage a day in the life of a family in their new home, highlighting how this particular property meets their needs.

3. Leverage video marketing

In recent years, video marketing has been one of the main growth areas within content marketing. Explainer video company Wyzowl found in a survey that more than 90% of businesses used video as a marketing tool, and just under 90% considered it an important part of their content marketing strategy.

In 2023 In the United States alone, businesses are likely to spend nearly $85 billion on video advertising in 2024, an increase of 9.9% compared to 2023. Consumers have embraced video content, too.

Regarding real estate, videos can simply showcase a property better than still images. No matter how many images an agent or a photographer takes, they may miss an element of tying those images together. Aside from walkthroughs, neighborhood tours and client testimonials also make for exciting video content.

Interactive and virtual content are taking these developments one step further. Innovative applications can help real estate professionals create tours that allow viewers to choose the direction they move in when viewing a property online.

Related: 3 Emerging Trends Shaping the Future of Real Estate

4. Blogging and thought leadership

So far, this article has focused on visual content, but it would be wrong to discount written content for a real estate agent's content marketing strategy. Blogs and thought leadership pieces allow companies and their key team members to establish themselves as experts in their field.

Depending on target audiences, content covering market trends, sharing homebuying tips, or offering guides to specific neighborhoods can work very well. The key to successful blogs and leadership pieces is understanding what the audience wants. Ask yourself what information your potential buyers cannot find elsewhere, think about their pain points , and address those.

5. Social media

Few content marketing strategies would be complete without the inclusion of social media channels. Social media platforms offer estate agents a chance to connect directly to their customers, distribute content, and engage with their audiences.

Social media offers excellent opportunities to share visual and written content that may otherwise have remained undiscovered. To harness the power of social media effectively, estate agencies need to ensure that the platform's and the content's audiences are well matched. Facebook may be the most popular platform for real estate agents now, but this may change as different generations enter the property market. Aside from platform choice, consistency is another critical component of a successful social media marketing strategy.

How to measure success and iteration

One of the biggest advantages of digital marketing channels over their more traditional counterparts is the ability to measure success.

Start by defining the key performance indicators that you want to measure. For videos, this could be the number of views or comments. For blog posts, it could be comments and shares or a growth in traffic to your website.

Not every content piece will be highly effective. Regular performance assessment and measurement allow real estate agents to adapt and iterate their content to make it even more relevant for their audiences.

Content marketing is a highly cost-effective part of a real estate agent's marketing strategy that can help create and increase brand awareness and build relationships with key audiences. Both visual and written content can deliver excellent results in the real estate sector. To further improve the impact of a campaign, real estate marketers need to measure the performance of their content and fine-tune their approach as necessary.

Entrepreneur Leadership Network® Contributor

Founder and CEO of Valux Digital and uPro Digital.

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