Now Available on Whatsapp:
+1 (888) 687-4420
Online 24/7
- College Essay
- Argumentative Essay
- Expository Essay
- Narrative Essay
- Descriptive Essay
- Scholarship Essay
- Admission Essay
- Reflective Essay
- Nursing Essay
- Economics Essay
Assignments
- Term Papers
- Research Papers
- Case Studies
- Dissertation
- Presentation
- Editing Help
- Cheap Essay Writing
- How to Order
Speech Writing
Introduction Speech
Introduction Speech- Tips & Examples
10 min read
People also read
The 10 Key Steps for Perfect Speech Writing
Understanding Speech Format - Simple Steps for Outlining
How to Start A Speech - 13 Interesting Ideas & Examples
20+ Outstanding Speech Examples for Your Help
Common Types of Speeches that Every Speechwriter Should Know
Good Impromptu Speech Topics for Students
Entertaining Speech Topics for Your Next Debate
Understanding Special Occasion Speech: Types, Steps, Examples and Tips
How to Write A Good Acceptance Speech?
Writing A Presentation Speech In English: Tips And Examples
Commemorative Speech - Writing Guide, Outline & Examples
Farewell Speech | Writing Tips & Examples
How to Write an Extemporaneous Speech? A Step-by-Step Guide
A Graduation Speech Writing Guide with Examples
Introduction speeches are all around us. Whenever we meet a new group of people in formal settings, we have to introduce ourselves. That’s what an introduction speech is all about.
When you're facing a formal audience, your ability to deliver a compelling introductory speech can make a lot of difference. With the correct approach, you can build credibility and connections.
In this blog, we'll take you through the steps to craft an impactful introduction speech. You’ll also get examples and valuable tips to ensure you leave a lasting impression.
So, let's dive in!
- 1. What is an Introduction Speech?
- 2. How to Write an Introduction Speech?
- 3. Introduction Speech Outline
- 4. Introduction Speech Example
- 5. Introduction Speech Ideas
- 6. 7 Tips for Delivering the Best Introduction Speech
What is an Introduction Speech?
An introduction speech, or introductory address, is a brief presentation at the beginning of an event or public speaking engagement. Its primary purpose is to establish a connection with the audience and to introduce yourself or the main speaker.
This type of speech is commonly used in a variety of situations, including:
- Public Speaking: When you step onto a stage to address a large crowd, you start with an introduction to establish your presence and engage the audience.
- Networking Events: When meeting new people in professional or social settings, an effective introduction speech can help you make a memorable first impression.
- Formal Gatherings: From weddings to conferences, introductions set the tone for the event and create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
In other words, an introduction speech is simply a way to introduce yourself to a crowd of people.
How to Write an Introduction Speech?
Before you can just go and deliver your speech, you need to prepare for it. Writing a speech helps you organize your ideas and prepare your speech effectively.
Here is how to introduce yourself in a speech.
- Know Your Audience
Understanding your audience is crucial. Consider their interests, backgrounds, and expectations to tailor your introduction accordingly.
For instance, the audience members could be your colleagues, new classmates, or various guests depending on the occasion. Understanding your audience will help you decide what they are expecting from you as a speaker.
- Opening the Speech with a Hook
The best speech introduction starts with a hook or opening line that grabs your audience's attention. This could be a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or a thought-provoking question about yourself or the occasion.
- Introduce Yourself
Introduce yourself to the audience. State your name, occupation, or other details relevant to the occasion. You should have mentioned the reason for your speech clearly. It will build your credibility and give the readers reasons to stay with you and read your speech.
- Keep It Concise
So how long is an introduction speech?
Introduction speeches should be brief and to the point. Aim for around 1-2 minutes in most cases. Avoid overloading the introduction with excessive details.
- Highlight Key Points
Mention the most important information that establishes the speaker's credibility or your own qualifications. Write down any relevant achievements, expertise, or credentials to include in your speech. Encourage the audience to connect with you using relatable anecdotes or common interests.
- Rehearse and Edit
Practice your introduction speech to ensure it flows smoothly and stays within the time frame. Edit out any unnecessary information, ensuring it's concise and impactful.
- Tailor for the Occasion
Adjust the tone and content of your introduction speech to match the formality and purpose of the event. What works for a business conference may not be suitable for a casual gathering.
Introduction Speech Outline
To assist you in creating a structured and effective introduction speech, here's a simple speech format that you can follow:
Here is an example outline for a self-introduction speech.
Outline for Self-Introduction Speech
Introduction Speech Example
So if you are wondering what to say in an introduction speech we have you covered! We have compiled introduction speech examples to help you understand how to put your ideas into practice for different scenarios.
Introduction Speech Writing Sample
Short Introduction Speech Sample
Self Introduction Speech for College Students
Introduction Speech about Yourself
Student Presentation Introduction Speech Script
Teacher Introduction Speech
New Employee Self Introduction Speech
Introduction Speech for Chief Guest
Moreover, here is a video example of a self-introduction speech. Watch it to understand how you should deliver your speech:
Want to read examples for other kinds of speeches? Find the best speeches at our blog about speech examples !
What Are Some Famous Introduction Speeches?
Here are the best introduction speeches for students to get inspired:
- Malala Yousafzai's Nobel Peace Prize Acceptance Speech (2014) : Malala's speech upon receiving the Nobel Peace Prize introduced her advocacy for girls' education and youth empowerment globally.
- Elon Musk's Presentation on SpaceX Interplanetary Transport System (2016) : Elon Musk introduced SpaceX's ambitious plans for interplanetary travel, outlining a vision for the future of space exploration.
- Michelle Obama's Democratic National Convention Speech (2008) : Michelle Obama's speech introduced her as a potential First Lady, sharing personal stories and values that resonated with the audience.
- J.K. Rowling's Harvard Commencement Speech (2008) : Rowling's speech introduced themes of failure, imagination, and resilience, drawing from her personal journey as an author and philanthropist.
Introduction Speech Ideas
So now that you’ve understood what an introduction speech is, you may want to write one of your own. So what should you talk about?
The following are some sample introduction speech topics and ideas that can provide an engaging start to a presentation, meeting, or social gathering.
- Personal Story: Share a brief personal story or experience that has shaped you.
- Professional Background: Highlight your career achievements and expertise.
- Hobby or Passion: Discuss a hobby or passion you're enthusiastic about.
- Volunteer Work: Talk about your involvement in volunteer work or community service.
- Travel Adventures: Share anecdotes from your travel adventures.
- Books or Literature: Provide an introduction related to a favorite book, author, or literary work.
- Achievements and Milestones: Highlight significant achievements and milestones in your life or career.
- Cultural Heritage: Explore your cultural heritage and its influence on your identity.
- Social or Environmental Cause: Discuss your dedication to a particular social or environmental cause.
- Future Aspirations: Share your future goals and aspirations.
You can deliver engaging speeches on all kinds of topics. Here is a list of entertaining speech topics to get inspiration.
7 Tips for Delivering the Best Introduction Speech
Now that you know how to write an effective introduction speech, let's focus on the delivery. The way you present your introduction is just as important as the content itself. Here are some valuable tips to ensure you deliver a better introduction speech:
Tip# 1: Maintain Eye Contact
Make eye contact with the audience to establish a connection. This shows confidence and engages your listeners.
Tip# 2: Use Appropriate Body Language
Your body language should convey confidence and warmth. Stand or sit up straight, use open gestures, and avoid fidgeting.
Tip# 3: Mind Your Pace
Speak at a moderate pace, avoiding rapid speech. A well-paced speech is easier to follow and more engaging.
Tip# 4: Avoid Filler Words
Minimize the use of filler words such as "um," "uh," and "like." They can be distracting and detract from your message.
Tip# 5: Be Enthusiastic
Convey enthusiasm about the topic or the speaker. Your energy can be contagious and inspire the audience's interest.
Tip# 6: Practice, Practice, Practice
Rehearse your speech multiple times. Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself or seek feedback from others.
Tip# 7: Be Mindful of Time
Stay within the allocated time for your introduction. Going too long can make your speech too boring for the audience.
Mistakes to Avoid in an Introduction Speech
When crafting and delivering an introduction speech, it's important to avoid common pitfalls that can reduce its impact. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Rambling On: Avoid making the introduction too long. Keep it short and sweet to set the stage without stealing the spotlight.
- Lack of Preparation: Not preparing enough can lead to awkward pauses or losing your train of thought. Practice your speech to feel more confident.
- Using Jargon or Complex Language: Steer clear of technical jargon or complicated language that might confuse the audience. Keep it simple and clear.
- Being Too Generic: A bland introduction can set a dull tone. Make your speech specific to the event and the speaker to keep it engaging.
- Using Inappropriate Humor: Be careful with humor. Avoid jokes that could offend or alienate the audience.
- Overloading with Background Information: Providing too much background information can overwhelm the audience. Offer just enough to give context without bogging down the introduction.
To Conclude,
An introduction speech is more than just a formality. It's an opportunity to engage, inspire, and connect with your audience in a meaningful way.
With the help of this blog, you're well-equipped to shine in various contexts. So, step onto that stage, speak confidently, and captivate your audience from the very first word.
Moreover, you’re not alone in your journey to becoming a confident introducer. If you ever need assistance, you can place a pay to do my essay request and let the experts help you out.
MyPerfectWords.com offers a custom essay service with experienced professionals who can craft tailored introductions, ensuring your speech makes a lasting impact.
Don't hesitate; hire our professional speech writing service to deliver top-quality speeches at your deadline!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a speech introduction be.
A speech introduction should be concise, typically lasting about 1 to 2 minutes. It should set the stage, capture the audience's attention, and provide a clear direction for the rest of the speech.
What Is the Best Speech Introduction Greeting?
The best greeting for a speech introduction depends on the formality of the event. Some examples include:
- Formal: "Good morning/afternoon/evening, distinguished guests."
- Semi-formal: "Hello everyone, thank you for being here today."
- Informal: "Hi everyone, thanks for coming."
What Word to Start a Speech?
Starting a speech with an engaging word or phrase can capture the audience's attention. Here are a few speech starting lines:
- "Imagine..." to prompt the audience to visualize something.
- "Today..." to ground the speech in the present moment.
- "Have you ever..." to ask a thought-provoking question.
- "In our lives..." to make a personal connection.
- "Picture this..." to create a vivid mental image.
Write Essay Within 60 Seconds!
Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.
Struggling With Your Paper?
Get a custom paper written at
With a FREE Turnitin report, and a 100% money-back guarantee
LIMITED TIME ONLY!
Keep reading
OFFER EXPIRES SOON!
Speech Introduction
Speech introduction generator.
The power of a compelling speech introduction is undeniable. It sets the tone, captures the audience’s attention, and paves the way for a memorable presentation. Crafting a captivating speech introduction can be challenging, but with the right techniques, anyone can deliver an engaging opening that leaves a lasting impression. In this article, we will explore what a speech introduction is, provide step-by-step guidance on how to write one, address frequently asked questions, and offer valuable examples to help you master this crucial skill.
1. Short Introduction Speech
Size: 110 KB
2. Introduction Speech for Employee
Size: 47 KB
3. Introduction Speech for Chairman
Size: 281 KB
4. Introduction Speech for Students
waalc.org.au
Size: 13 KB
5. Formal Introduction Sample
Size: 223 KB
6. 30 Second Self Introduction Speech for School Students
7. Self Introduction Speech for School Students
Size: 342 KB
8. New Self Introduction Speech for School Students
Size: 144 KB
9. Self Introduction Speech for School Students Template
Size: 83 KB
10. 5 Minute Self Introduction Speech Template
Size: 448 KB
11. Sample 5 Minute Self Introduction Speech
12. Basic 5 Minute Leader Speech
Size: 141 KB
13. Public Communication Speech
Size: 103 KB
14. 2 Minute Self Introduction Speech Template
Size: 143 KB
15. 2 Minute Self Introduction Speech for Students
16. 2 minute self introduction speech for school students, 17. 2 minute self-introduction speech evaluation form.
Size: 201 KB
18. 30 Second Introduction Speech about Yourself
19. Introduction Speech about Yourself Example
Size: 115 KB
20. Self Introduction Speech about Yourself
21. self-introduction speech based on a personal object, 22. printable introduction speech about yourself, 23. sample new manager introduction speech.
Size: 357 KB
24. Basic New Manager Introduction Speech
Size: 31 KB
25. New Manager Introduction Speech Example
26. New Manager Introduction Speech in PDF
Size: 663 KB
What is a Speech Introduction?
A speech introduction is the opening segment of a speech or presentation that aims to draw the audience’s attention and create an immediate connection with the topic. It serves as the gateway to your main ideas, allowing you to present your message effectively. A well-crafted speech introduction can establish the context, highlight the importance of the subject matter, and engage the audience’s curiosity.
How to Write a Speech Introduction
Welcome to the step-by-step guide on crafting a captivating speech introduction! Whether you’re preparing for a formal presentation, a persuasive talk, or simply want to engage your audience effectively, this guide will walk you through the essential elements and techniques to create an attention-grabbing opening. Let’s dive in and learn how to captivate your listeners from the very beginning!
Step 1: Understand Your Audience
Before diving into crafting your speech introduction, take the time to observe your audience. Consider their interests, knowledge level, and preferences. Tailor your introduction to resonate with them, making it relatable and engaging. Understanding your audience will allow you to choose the right tone, language, and examples that best suit their needs.
Step 2: Develop a Clear Purpose
Define the purpose of your speech introduction. Are you trying to inspire, inform, or persuade? Knowing your objective will help you create a focused and impactful opening. Your purpose will also guide the structure and content of your introduction, ensuring that every word contributes to your overall message.
Step 3: Craft an Attention-Grabbing Opening
Begin your speech with a hook that captures the audience’s attention immediately. You can use a surprising statistic, an intriguing question, a relevant quote, or a compelling story. The key is to pique their curiosity and make them eager to hear more. The opening should be concise and powerful, setting the stage for the rest of your presentation.
Step 4: Provide a Roadmap
After the attention-grabbing opening, present a clear and concise outline of your speech. This roadmap gives the audience an overview of what to expect, guiding them through the main points you’ll be addressing. Outline formats can vary, but make sure it’s easy for the audience to follow and understand the structure of your speech.
1. Why is a strong speech introduction essential?
A compelling speech introduction captivates the audience, making them more likely to pay attention throughout the presentation. It sets the context, establishes your credibility, and sparks interest in your message.
2. Should I use literary devices in my speech introduction?
Using literary devices like metaphors, similes, or anecdotes can add flair and memorability to your introduction. However, use them judiciously, considering the context and your audience’s preferences.
3. Can I use both simple and compound sentences in my introduction?
Yes, varying your sentence structure adds rhythm and flow to your speech. Combine simple sentences for clarity with compound sentences for complexity and impact.
In conclusion, crafting an effective speech introduction requires careful consideration of your audience, purpose, and content. By following the step-by-step guide and incorporating attention-grabbing elements, you can deliver a compelling opening that leaves a lasting impression. Remember to use appropriate verbs and common nouns to keep your introduction clear and concise. By mastering this art, you set the stage for a powerful presentation that will undoubtedly resonate with your listeners.
Text prompt
- Instructive
- Professional
Write a Speech Introduction for a keynote speaker at a conference.
Create a Speech Introduction for a guest lecturer in a university class.
Speeches HQ
6 Presentation Introduction Speech Samples
Standing at a podium with hundreds of eyes looking your way can make anyone’s heart race. Starting strong makes the difference between a memorable speech and one that falls flat. Those first few moments set the tone, grab attention, and create the connection you need with your audience.
A strong opening carries significant weight. Your first words draw people in and make them want to listen. Below you’ll find carefully selected speech samples that showcase different approaches to starting presentations. Each one demonstrates proven techniques that help speakers connect with their audiences from the very first word.
Presentation Introduction Speech Samples
These sample speeches showcase various approaches to opening presentations effectively, each crafted to suit different occasions and speaking scenarios.
1. The Personal Story Opener
“Three years ago, on a regular Tuesday morning, my phone rang. The call lasted exactly 47 seconds, but it changed everything. My doctor’s voice carried news that would reshape my entire life. ‘The tests came back positive,’ he said. ‘You have type 2 diabetes.’
That moment started my path to understanding how food affects our bodies. As someone who loved sugary treats and midnight snacks, facing this diagnosis felt like hitting a wall. Yet something interesting emerged. Through research and working with healthcare experts, I discovered that nearly 40% of adults face similar challenges with blood sugar management.
During our time together, we’ll look at new research in diabetes management that could help millions of people just like me and maybe even someone you know. Let’s explore how simple changes in our daily habits can lead to remarkable improvements in our health.”
— END OF SPEECH —
Commentary: A deeply personal narrative that connects health challenges with scientific insights. Suitable for medical conferences, wellness seminars, or any event where sharing personal experiences helps build credibility and emotional connection with the audience.
2. The Statistical Shock
“Right now, as we sit here, 2.5 billion gallons of water are being wasted through leaky pipes across America. That’s enough to fill 4,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Every single day.
Look at your morning routine. While you brushed your teeth today, nearly 50,000 gallons of clean water slipped away through aging infrastructure. Here’s something positive. Your local water utility has developed a new solution that’s already showing promising results.
Let’s see how this new technology spots leaks before they become major problems, and how it’s already saving communities millions of dollars.”
Commentary: Opens with striking statistics that immediately capture attention before moving to solutions. Works well for environmental conferences, city council meetings, or presentations about infrastructure and resource management.
3. The Question-Based Engagement
“How many times have you sat through a meeting that could have been handled through email? Raise your hand if you’ve checked your phone during a presentation in the last week. Keep it raised if you felt guilty about it.
Those raised hands tell an important story about how we communicate at work. Research shows we spend 13 hours every week in meetings, yet employees rate 71% of these meetings as unproductive. A change needs to happen.
Over the next hour, you’ll learn five proven strategies that turn boring meetings into productive sessions where every minute counts and every participant stays engaged.”
Commentary: Uses interactive questions to build instant rapport and address common pain points. Fits perfectly for corporate training sessions, professional development workshops, or business management seminars.
4. The Current Events Hook
“Last month, a small bakery in Portland made headlines when their sourdough bread became an overnight sensation on social media. But this wasn’t just any bread. This loaf carried a story spanning three generations, starting in 1923 with a determined woman who escaped hardship and built a new life through baking.
Food connects people in ways we might not see right away. That same sourdough starter from 1923 still brings people together today, creating lines around the block every morning at 6 AM.
Let’s see how small businesses can use storytelling to build real connections with their customers while staying true to their roots.”
Commentary: Brings together current events with historical background to create emotional resonance. Fits nicely for marketing conferences, small business seminars, or talks about brand storytelling and heritage.
5. The Fresh Perspective Opening
“Success shows patterns. But sometimes those patterns lead us down the wrong path. Take Thomas Edison, for example. Most people think his greatest invention was the light bulb. They’re wrong. His most valuable creation was something far less glamorous. The organized approach to innovation he developed at Menlo Park became the model for modern research and development labs.
Many historic breakthroughs share this pattern. The real value often lies not in the final product, but in the process of getting there.
Let’s look at how this idea applies to modern innovation and why focusing too much on outcomes might actually be holding your team back.”
Commentary: Questions standard beliefs to spark curiosity and offer fresh perspectives. Great for innovation conferences, leadership summits, or talks about organizational change and development.
6. The Demonstration Starter
“Take out your phones and open your camera app. Point it at any text in this room. See how quickly it recognizes the words. This technology that seems so simple now seemed impossible just 15 years ago.
This everyday tool has a fascinating story of determination, countless failures, and unexpected breakthroughs. A story that teaches us valuable lessons about innovation and problem-solving.
Let’s see how this technology grew from a basic idea to something we all carry in our pockets, and what it shows us about the future of human-computer interaction.”
Commentary: Engages the audience through immediate participation and links everyday experiences to bigger themes. Works best for technology conferences, educational seminars, or talks about digital transformation.
Final Thoughts
These samples show different ways to open presentations effectively. Each approach serves specific purposes and connects with audiences in unique ways. Select the style that matches your personality and speaking situation best. Success comes from authentic delivery and genuine connection with your audience.
Make these samples your own to match your voice and style. Each carefully chosen word needs your personal touch to resonate with listeners. Speaking authentically while following a clear structure creates the most memorable presentations.
- Games, topic printables & more
- The 4 main speech types
- Example speeches
- Commemorative
- Declamation
- Demonstration
- Informative
- Introduction
- Student Council
- Speech topics
- Poems to read aloud
- How to write a speech
- Using props/visual aids
- Acute anxiety help
- Breathing exercises
- Letting go - free e-course
- Using self-hypnosis
- Delivery overview
- 4 modes of delivery
- How to make cue cards
- How to read a speech
- 9 vocal aspects
- Vocal variety
- Diction/articulation
- Pronunciation
- Speaking rate
- How to use pauses
- Eye contact
- Body language
- Voice image
- Voice health
- Public speaking activities and games
- Blogging Aloud
- About me/contact
- How to write an introduction speech
Introduction speech for a guest speaker
How to write a good introduction speech step by step
By: Susan Dugdale
If you've been asked to give the introduction speech for a guest speaker you're in the right place.
Everything you need to prepare it is here. Follow the steps and you'll have an introductory speech you'll be proud to deliver.
What you'll find on this page:
- an overview of the purpose of an introduction speech for a guest speaker
- the content you're expected to cover
- an organizational pattern or template to follow
- an example introduction speech
- 6 important tips to use to ensure your speech is a success
The function of an introduction speech
Let's start with the purpose of the speech. When you understand what the speech is supposed to achieve you'll find it much easier to write.
The job of an introduction speech is to:
- introduce your guest speaker,
- give them a warm welcome,
- and create ready-and-motivated-to-listen anticipation in the audience.
Essentially you are the warm-up act. Your task is to focus and unite the audience members, to get them ready for what is to come.
Return to Top
To prepare your introduction speech you'll need:
- the guest speaker's name and, if they have one, their title. For example; Judge, Sir, The Right Honorable... Do make sure you can say their name properly and easily! If you're in doubt get the correct pronunciation from your guest speaker and practice. Also ask if they have personal pronoun preferences. Eg: they/them, she/her, he/him...
- the guest speaker's biography or the credentials of the speaker Sometimes you'll be given what the guest speaker wants said about themselves. If that isn't provided select events, achievements and qualifications to support establishing him/her as an authority within the context of the occasion. And do check that your guest is happy with what you are preparing to say about them.
- attention getters or a surprise to delight the audience, something that is not commonly known, and something revealing the personality or humanity of the person.
How to organize your material
- Build excitement or interest by adding one piece of information after another.
- Make the speaker's name and their speech title, the climax and end of your speech.
To show you how it's done I've put together an...
Introduction speech example
Let's put the speech in context to help you make sense of it.
The setting for this fictitious introduction speech is a conference for an organization called " Women in Leadership" . The audience are primarily women drawn together through an interest in leadership roles.
At the end of the speech, the speaker will lead the clapping as Rose Stephenson, the keynote speaker being introduced, takes center stage.
Now here's the introduction speech text.
Now here's the introduction speech text
" She's been a stalwart member of "Women in Leadership" for the last ten years. Over that time she's served in every office: secretary, treasurer, chairperson, chief fundraiser, education officer... to name just a few, and in some roles several times over.
Her passionate dedication to promoting public speaking as an important component of empowerment is inspiring. We estimate that she has personally mentored at least 100 new speakers and has set an extraordinary "yes, you can" example for many more. We see her as capable, confident and fluent: never at a loss for words. But what you probably don't know is that this women once stuttered, stammered and blushed.
Yes, she was often temporarily paralyzed, struck dumb by the mere thought of standing in front of an audience to speak.
How she got from awkward tongue tied silence to becoming an eloquent front line spokesperson is the story she will share with us tonight.
Ladies, without further ado, it's with great pleasure, I give you... Rose Stephenson on "Speaking To Lead!"
Say the speech out loud! Use it as a template!
Try saying it out loud to get the flow of it.
If you like it, use it as a model for the introduction speech you need to write.
6 tips to make your introduction speech successful
1. consider tone and language use.
Is what you've prepared appropriate for the occasion, audience and your guest speaker? Have you avoided using a string of clichés?
2. Check the length of your speech
Pertinent and pithy: a short speech is what you want. One to two minutes should be enough.
Test it out loud with a timer and trim if necessary.
My example speech is 171 words long. That will take approximately 1 minute 30 seconds to say depending on the speaker's rate of speech.
For more on: the number of words per minute in a speech . (This page has estimations for the number of words per minute spoken at a slow, medium and fast rate for speeches from 1 - 10 minutes long.)
3. Resist exaggerating or "puffing up" the speaker's achievements
First impressions count. You don't want to talk about your guest in a way that may embarrass and cause the audience to question their right to be there.
4. Always check your facts
Beware the horror of getting your facts muddled and, if you wish to mention something that may be sensitive, ask permission before you announce it in front of an audience.
5. Remember you are not the main speaker, or the star of the show
You've done a good job when you cover just enough to make the coming speech eagerly anticipated.
Please do not stray into telling the audience what the guest speaker's speech will cover in detail. That's terribly unfair on the speaker!
6. Rehearse your speech
Practice out loud until you are confidently fluent and able to convey the pleasure or enthusiasm the audience needs to get them in the right frame of mind.
For more: how to rehearse a speech well
For more: how to use your voice expressively
Other related pages you may find useful:
- How to give a self-introduction speech (with an example of a brief speech to introduce yourself to fellow workshop participants)
- How to write a welcome speech (with an example of a short welcome speech to open an event)
speaking out loud
Subscribe for FREE weekly alerts about what's new For more see speaking out loud
Top 10 popular pages
- Welcome speech
- Demonstration speech topics
- Impromptu speech topic cards
- Thank you quotes
- Impromptu public speaking topics
- Farewell speeches
- Phrases for welcome speeches
- Student council speeches
- Free sample eulogies
From fear to fun in 28 ways
A complete one stop resource to scuttle fear in the best of all possible ways - with laughter.
Useful pages
- Search this site
- About me & Contact
- Free e-course
- Privacy policy
©Copyright 2006-24 www.write-out-loud.com
Designed and built by Clickstream Designs
7 ways for opening a speech! The ideal speech introduction to grab your audience’s attention
Maybe you know this: you may or must give a speech, but how do you start? Whether you’re giving a speech as an employer or to your colleagues, or you’re an external keynote speaker, the principles are always the same. Likewise, your preparation is not much different: whether it’s a keynote at a kick-off event , the festive speech at the company Christmas party , a motivational speech at a team event or even a laudatory speech at an awards ceremony – the search for the right begining should not be left to chance.
How do you get your audience’s attention so that they want to listen and can follow you easily? How do you sound interesting? In this article you will get the necessary tips for your ideal start for your next speech to inspire your audience. I have collected these speech introductions and examples in my work in the field of public speaking as a presenter and keynote speaker in front of over 5 million people.
Why is the beginning, i.e. the first few minutes of a presentation, so important? This is where the first impression is being made. Your audience intuitively decides within a few seconds whether they like the speaker and want to follow. After that, you still have up to three minutes to pick up your audience with the content of your speech.
Stop guessing how to WOW your audience!
We will send you our secret ingredients to WOW your audience for free! In the MAGIC MOMENTS FORMULA you can learn how to take any audience of any size and create a deep emotional experience for them in order to create a deeper emotional bond with you and your brand.
The first impression is crucial for further success
There’s a saying that goes, “ There’s no second chance for a first impression. ” It takes between 100 milliseconds and 7 seconds for your audience to get the same impression of you. If you as a speaker fail to make that first impression, no matter how impressive your speech, it will be very difficult to pick up your audience.
US comedian Jerry Seinfeld , one of the most famous American comedians of the 90s, said that his fame only gives him a starting bonus for the first three minutes – at the latest then he has to deliver. If you don’t enjoy the celebrity bonus in your speeches, that means you have to deliver right from the get go to win over your audience.
Requirements for the ideal introduction for your speech
Before you can wow people as a speaker and give any thought to content, you need to set the stage. If you want to give a good speech and move your audience from A to B, two things are essential: you need to know where you want to go and where your audience is coming from .
Know the outcome of your speech
If you don’t know in which direction you want to move your audience, then no amount of tips will get you there. So before you tinker with the ideal introduction, you need to be clear about what your outcome is .
What feeling do you want the audience to have when you leave the stage? What impression do you want to convey as a speaker? Even more public speaking tips you can find here.
Know your audience members
If you want to catch a fish, you have to use a bait that tastes good to the fish, not to the fisherman . The same applies to presentations: who decides what is a top speech? That is, of course, in the eye of your audience. Therefore, it is all the more important to know who the people are, listening to your speech.
An American proverb says that your audience doesn’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. Your audience won’t pay attention to you until they see that your speech is relevant to them. As a speaker, do you bring examples and tips and answer questions in your main points that matter to the audience? Do your main ideas strike a cord?
Tip: Try to find out as much as possible to know in advance what moves your audience and why people are here today. If you have the opportunity, use the time for successful networking and listen to their needs.
The goal of an ideal introduction to your speech
Only after you know your outcome and your audience you can focus on how to start your presentation, because now you know as a speaker in which direction your ship should sail. If you want to give a speech, you need to get your audience interested in you and your main points. For this to happen, you need the attention of your audience.
Speaker Tip: First create attention , then develop interest in your message and your main points to make it worth listening for your audience.
Giving a speech: seven perfect speech introductions
Now let’s look at tips and examples of how you as a speaker can inspire your audience. These tips should give you a guideline from where you can successfully transition from your chosen introduction to the main part and final part of your speech.
1. He who asks, leads – starting with a question
An elegant way to begin a speech is with a question . The goal is to engage your listener directly in your opening and generate interest. In order for the question to be effective, it must be tailored to your target audience. The question may be provocative, surprising or even make you smile, but it must be relevant.
For example, if you’re speaking to a group of retirees, a question like “Which one of you went to a disco last weekend?” would be just as out of place as asking a group of Wall street brokers “Which one of you has been involved in stocks?”. Your audience needs to feel like you know who you’re dealing with.
“Who remembers what they did last Saturday night?” was an opening I chose many years ago when giving a speech. Of course, after that, there was a story about my Saturday night that fit right in with the theme of my speech. People were immediately involved and everyone was thinking. Because just about everybody did something last Saturday and so it was relevant… even if many didn’t even remember it.
With questions that fit the topics, you are sure to get the attention of the participants. However, always pay attention to what you trigger in your audience with a question and, if requested, also provide the appropriate answer.
Another speaking tip: When you ask a question, give your audience time to respond . Whether out loud, with a show of hands, or silently, people need time for what you say to have an impact. Of course, questions can also be used during your speech.
2. Start your speech with a quote
Using the words of another person in your speech is a proven way. The art of building a good speech is to pick up your audience where they are. A pointed quote that gets to the heart of your ideas or the occasion is the basic premise for choosing someone else’s statement as your lead-in. If people are familiar with the name of the person you are quoting, it gives you added credibility as a speaker.
Very similar to a quote is using a proverb to start your speech. Again, there is often a deeper wisdom behind it. Link this to the idea of your speech and you have a great introduction.
Again, I’ll give you an example from my own experience when I was asked to give a presentation on the topic of corporate mission statements many years ago. I decided to start with a quote, but the number of quotes on this topic are manageable. However, the corporate mission statement compares very well with the soul for people, and so on this occasion I found a quote on the subject of the soul and then drew the analogy with the corporate mission statement. “Outside the box” solutions are also the speaker’s friend.
3. Inspire your audience with storytelling
A particularly powerful way to start is to share a story or personal real life experience with your audience at the beginning of your presentation. With a personal story, you create compelling moments and build an emotional connection with your audience. However, this is also where the biggest danger lies: your story must absolutely correspond to the facts and at the same time should have a connection to the topic of the event. The audience has a good nose for it, if you serve them a “suitably made” story.
Of course, storytelling is not limited to stories you have experienced yourself. You can also draw on a current or even historical event. Important, as mentioned above, is the connection to the goal of your presentation. Also, make sure that you start right in the relevant event and do not begin with Adam and Eve. Especially extroverted people like to get into narration and then it can happen that you lose the drive to your actual presentation and your audience is no longer on the point.
One of my stage coaching clients, for example, took his audience into a situation right at the beginning of his speech when he was at the start of his first triathlon. He immediately built up a tension, because he put his audience directly into it instead of talking about preparation and planning for the triathlon. Because he also found the right tone, the speech went down great. Bonus tip for your speech: Stories absolutely need to be rehearsed and tailored to your audience and the occasion. This does not mean, as already mentioned, that you add things, but that you leave out unnecessary things. Don’t just tell from memory, but really practice.
4. Start with an open loop
Starting with an open loop is something like the supreme discipline. Here, you start with a story, but don’t finish telling it until the end of your speech . This type of introduction is certainly a bit unusual and, in my opinion, more suitable for experienced speakers, especially to keep the tension high.
You start with the open loop in the same way as with storytelling and take your audience along until the point where the tension is at its highest. Instead of the resolution, you lead into the topic of your speech and then come to the main part, where the content is presented with further examples. Only at the end do you pick up the ball of your introductory story again and close the open loop.
As an example, I start one of my keynote speeches with such an open loop: I take the audience on my experience at the New York City Marathon. Since my preparation for it was far from ideal due to injuries, I wasn’t sure until the start how far I would run that day. My speech started with the thoughts going through my head at the start, with my uncertainty but also anticipation. The start of the marathon was then the Open Loop, which I only resolved at the end of the speech.
5. Enchant the audience with parables
A parable is a very short to short story which might not even have a plot of its own. While a parable can be told with action, as if something has actually taken place, it can also be about something hypothetical: “Imagine…” or “Suppose…”. In both cases, the point is that we want to make a connection to the content.
The purpose of parables is to pick up the audience as they enter your presentation and provide an emotional experience that immediately introduces them to the topic through your words.
6. Facts, figures and statistics as an introduction for the speech
The FFS introduction is particularly useful if you have facts, figures or statistics that are not familiar to your audience and are also unusual. In addition, it must of course fit your topic and possibly support your thesis. A personalized statistic works best to meet your audience’s needs.
When we were designing the outline for one of my Executive Legacy Coaching clients’ investor pitch, we made a conscious decision to start with a number that would probably come as a surprise to many listeners. To back up the pain point that his product solves, he asked the panel how much they thought that an unhappy employee costs a company per year. Starting with that number was so effective because the audience’s estimates were all substantially lower than the true number, creating an a-ha effect.
7. Looking back
Another way to start your speech is with a look back . This variant is particularly suitable if you are to give a speech on the occasion of an anniversary or birthday. In your preparation, you should pay special attention to who is sitting in your audience: what connection do they have to the person or the company or the occasion and, above all, have they experienced the period themselves.
Some time ago, I had the privilege of being on stage at a company’s 20th anniversary. In order to give the audience as emotional an experience as possible, I first had to find out who was in the audience. Have people lived through these last 20 years, and are they likely to remember the moment from 20 years ago? Since my audience was mostly over 35 years old I assumed that was the case. Thus I dove into the world of 20 years ago: how did the world look and what moved people at the time? Immediately the people were in the emotions of the memories and from that I could then draw a bow to the company anniversary: “much has changed, but one thing has remained the same…”.
Giving a speech: here’s what you should avoid when getting started
Jokes are for comedians.
There are talented joke tellers and there are those who always flub the punch line. If you feel uncomfortable in the role of the joker, don’t do it. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t spice up the introduction with a little humor. Humor arouses positive emotions and loosens the atmosphere. A humorous introduction, which also works without a joke, signals to the participants that the event will not be dry as dust and that it is worth staying for.
Bonus tip: Humor is different in different regions and works best when you approach your audience with respect and humility.
Stay away from provocative introductions
A provocative introduction is like riding on a razor blade: very dangerous. You have to have an incredible ace up your sleeve to win your audience back. As a rule, I would strongly advise you not to use provocative introductions. If your audience perceives you as an unsympathetic person, no matter how ingenious the content of your speech, it will not bring the desired success.
Start with an apology
Some insecure speaker starts his speech with an apology for his insecurity or God knows what else. Please don’t do that. For one thing, the audience usually doesn’t notice it anyway, and for another, it immediately takes something away from your first impression. You might get sympathy for it, but in the rarest cases you will get the attention for your speech.
One of the most important tips I once received was that your audience wants you to win . That’s right, you read that correctly. Your audience wants you to be good. No one sits in the audience hoping for a boring speaker to come on now. Your audience wants you to do your job well. If you feel anxiety on the way to the stage, keep reading.
The way to the stage and the first seconds
The key to a perfect introduction lies not only in the preparation for your speech, but also in the emotional preparation in the moments before public speaking. Especially if you are nervous or even feel speech anxiety , it is even more important that you, to present convincingly, are in an ideal state.
Take a deep breath just before your performance, send positive emotions to your audience and off you go. Many speakers also like to take index cards with their notes to be prepared in case of an emergency. The phrase for the introduction as well as for the conclusion I would always write in full. For the main points, keywords are enough here.
When you finally arrive on stage, at first be aware of your audience . Before you begin, start with eye contact and confident body language to radiate stage presence . Only then, when you feel the attention of your audience, you start to talk. This confidence will automatically boost your credibility.
Bonus tip: if you’re unsure about your voice, a little voice training will help.
The ideal start for your virtual speech
Of course, the principles for your ideal start also apply at virtual events. So if you hold a webinar or a virtual presentation or are on stage at a hybrid event , nothing will change in the structure of your preparation. The main point in the virtual space is that you have to speak in front of the camera and this should be practiced. The specific elements of structuring your presentation stay the same.
Ask Ronny to coach you for your next performance
Click on the button and send a non-binding request to Ronny to be your coach for your next keynote, speech or presentation.
Feeling ready for your next speech?
In this article you have learned how to start your speech in an ideal way. Do you already have an idea which structure you like best? Remember that you always start with your outcome and your audience before you create a thread for your presentation.
The tone makes the music. Former American writer Maya Angelou summed it up this way: “Your audience won’t remember exactly what you said, but they’ll always remember how it made them feel.” Whatever the occasion, take your audience on an emotional journey.
If you feel that you still need help for your next speech or keynote , feel free to contact me or just write me an e-mail ! Together many things are easier.
Which introduction appeals to you the most? Which start to a speech have you learned about here and would like to try out for your next performance? Please leave a comment below and share this article with someone who you think will profit from it. All the best for your next speeches.
There is no second chance for a first impression . The first impression is created in the first few seconds of perception and is crucial to whether your audience perceives you as likeable or unlikeable. If you mess up the first impression, the next few minutes will be a steep uphill climb to get the audience back on your side.
First, take three deep breaths and consciously put a smile on your face. Stand up straight, shoulders back, head up and visualize your audience and your goal. The important thing here is to move as quickly as possible from an internal focus (thinking about you) to an external focus (thinking about your audience). Imagine how your audience will benefit from your speech. For even more tips, I recommend you read my blog post Persuasive presentations: 3 Steps to Your Ideal State in Front of an Audience.
Ideally, you were introduced by a presenter who has also given some interesting background information about you to the audience. However, it always makes sense to leave nothing to chance here and, on the one hand, to discuss your introduction with the presenter upfront and, on the other hand, to include the most important points in your speech. I would always start with an introduction into the topic to get the audience interested and then introduce myself. The best way to find the right introduction is to read this article.
How useful was this post?
Click on a star to rate it!
Average rating 4.3 / 5. Vote count: 46
No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.
Similar Posts
How to improve your stage presence right now! 7 simple exercises that immediately make you shine on stage in 2024!
Stop guessing how to WOW your audience!The first impression is crucial for further successRequirements for the ideal introduction for your speechKnow the outcome of your speechKnow your audience membersThe goal of an ideal introduction to…
How to FIND YOUR PASSION!
How to find the perfect host for your event in five steps
7 points on how to make your award show exciting! This will make your next prize giving ceremony a hit!
The 28 ultimate public speaking tips to make your next speech a guaranteed success!
Top 21 team event ideas and activities for 2024
Leave a reply cancel reply.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
- About Ronny
- Our Clients
- Our Core Values
- STAGE HERO Coaching
- Homestudio Resources
© 2024 RLE Business GmbH. All rights reserved | Imprint | Privacy Policy
Session expired
Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.
INQUIRE NOW
Request Ronny as a keynote speaker for your next event without obligation!
CHECK AVAILABILTY
Send us a non-binding inquiry for Ronny to coach you for your next keynote, speech or presentation!
Send us a non-binding request for Ronny as host for your next event!
STOP GUESSING HOW TO WOW YOUR AUDIENCE
Join our e-mail list for free to get the MAGIC MOMENTS FORMULA for free!
STOP GUESSING WHICH TECH TO USE IN YOUR HOME STUDIO
Join our e-mail list for free and we will send you the newest HOME STUDIO ASSISTANT checklist directly to your inbox. Each item has been carefully selected.
STOP GUESSING WHO THE RIGHT KENOYTE SPEAKER FOR YOUR EVENT IS
Join our e-mail list for free and get your 18-page KEYNOTE SCOUT-checklist on how to find the ideal keynote speaker for your event
STOP GUESSING ABOUT YOUR IDEAL EVENT HOST
Join our e-mail list for free and get your free EVENT HOST SCOUT - checklist to find the ideal event host“.
YES! I'M IN!
Join our e-mail list for free to get inspiring tips for speakers, presenters and event organizers!
Want to create or adapt books like this? Learn more about how Pressbooks supports open publishing practices.
31 Examples of Introductions
Below you will find examples of informative and persuasive introductions. Notice that each contains the five elements necessary for a good introduction: an attention getter, the establishment of rapport with the audience, the speaker’s credibility, a clear topic reveal, and clearly articulated main points. An important point to mention about the introduction is that the parts should flow or “bridge” into each other. You do not want to have a disconnect between the attention getter, the credibility enhancer, the rap- port, and the reveal. You also can switch the rapport and credibility sections if it makes more sense, but definitely start with the attention-getter and end with the preview.
(Note: We have written these introductions out as paragraphs, but your instructor may require you to present them in a different format in your outline.)
Informative Speech Introductions
Topic: allergies.
My parents knew that something was really wrong when my mom received a call from my home economics teacher saying that she needed to get to the school immediately and pick me up. This was all because of an allergy, something that everyone in this room is either vaguely or extremely familiar with. Allergies affect a large number of people, and three very common allergies include pet and animal allergies, seasonal allergies, and food allergies. All three of these allergies take control over certain areas of my life, as all three types affect me, starting when I was just a kid and continuing today [attention-getter]. Because of this, I have done extensive research on the subject, [credibility] and would like to share some of what I’ve learned with all of you today. Whether you just finished your freshman year of college, you are a new parent, or you have kids that are grown and out of the house, allergies will most likely affect everyone in this room at some point [rapport]. So it will benefit you all to know more about them, specifically the three most common sources of allergies and the most recent approaches to treating them [purpose and preview].
Topic: Seasonal Affective Disorder (See if you can identify the parts on Example 2.)
When winter is approaching and the days are getting darker and shorter, do you feel a dramatic reduction in energy or do you sleep longer than usual during the fall or winter months? If you answered “yes” to either of these questions, you may be one of the millions of people who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. For most people these problems do not cause great suffering in their life, but for an estimated six percent of the United States population these problems can result in major suffering. As a student in the registered nursing program here at State College, I became interested in SAD after learning more about it and want to share this information with all of you in case you recognize some of these symptoms in yourself or someone you love. In order to fully understand SAD, it is important to look at the medical definition of SAD, the symptoms of this disorder, and the measures that are commonly used to ease symptoms.
Persuasive Speech Introduction
Topic: term life insurance.
You have cried silent tears and uttered desperate prayers, but as you watch the medical team unhook the tubes, turn off the heart monitor and shoot furtive, helpless glances your way, you face the unmistakable reality that cancer has won over your loved one and you are left with unimaginable grief, despair and yes, financial burden. Most of us would not choose to cause our loved ones financial pain on top of the emotional pain of our deaths, but by failing to plan for their financial needs, that is exactly what we do. I have learned a lot about life insurance in my research for this presentation, from taking a thirteen-week course about financial matters, and from the experience of purchasing a term life insurance policy just last year. I know most of you probably have not thought much about life insurance, but someday each and every one of us in this room will pass away and somebody is going to have to pay for our funerals. Term life insurance is affordable, protects those you love from the financial devastation of your uninsured death, and reinforces your commitment to their financial and emotional well-being while you are living. Let’s examine the definition of term life insurance and then its benefits.
Exploring Public Speaking Copyright © by Edited by Nicolet College is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.
Share This Book
Make A Speech Introduction That Grabs Audience Attention
The speech introduction is the first part of a speech and the first opportunity to grab the audience’s attention. The speaker should state the topic, make it relatable to the audience, establish credibility and preview the main points. You should write or finalize your introduction at the end so that it reflects what you actually said.
Listen up, audience!
No matter whether you are giving an informative speech to enlighten an audience about a certain topic or a persuasive speech aims to convince the crowd to adopt a particular viewpoint. But whichever type of speech you’re writing or delivering, one thing is true: You must create an attention-grabbing speech introduction.
Table of Contents
What Is The Best Way To Start A Speech?
Whether in speech writing or public speaking, the role of a good intro cannot be understated. It is your best chance to captivate your audience’s attention and entice them to be with you until the rest of your speech.
It’s also your opportunity to introduce the topic and thesis statement and set up the points you’ll discuss later. So, keep in mind that you emphasize the relevance of your subject matter to the audience and contextualize it properly.
These are some of the best ways to make a compelling introduction speech.
- State a quote or use a historical event reference. Analyze your target audience and look for a powerful quote from a relevant figure or a historical event that will resonate with listeners and relate it to your topic. A notable quotation can immediately establish a strong connection. On the other hand, an important event will help you illustrate your point or paint a scenario better.
- Share a personal story. Sometimes, you don’t have to search far and wide to demonstrate a point. You can tap into your personal experience and share something about yourself. Generally, audience members enjoy hearing stories as they pique their interest and get a glimpse of who the speaker is. Your anecdotes will also make you more human and accessible.
- Start with an “Imagine” or “What if?” scenario. Want to make your audience engaged? Let their imagination run. In many speeches over the years, some of the most successful ones used this technique. Speakers transport the audience to the future or a scenario wherein their proposed idea or belief reigns. For example, “What if we live in a world where everyone can access healthcare?”
- Count on a video or any other visual aids. If you’re a public speaker keen to use technology, you may also want to commence your speech with visual aids. For instance, you can show a pre-prepared video to draw the crowd’s attention right before you speak. If you’re talking about hunger and food security, you can show footage of how such issues take a toll in many third-world countries.
- Tell surprising statistics. One of the most effective ways to shock — and, ultimately, grab your audience’s attention is by telling real, hard facts. If you’re looking for a good attention-getter, you can rely on surprising statistics about your topic. For instance, if your topic is bullying, you can mention that in the US, around 3 million students are victims of bullying.
- Ask the audience a question. Another way to hook your audience is by asking them a question. It can be a direct one (e.g., “Who among here are…” then ask for a show of hands). It can also be a rhetorical question (e.g., “What is the meaning of life?”). The key is interacting with the crowd to get their attention and effectively introducing your subject matter.
What Should You Include In the Introduction?
When you look at intro samples and templates on the web, you’ll find that effective speech introductions contain key elements. And one of the most important is your attention-grabber, which will compel your audience to listen to your speech and narrative.
You must also introduce your speech topic and indicate why it matters to your audience. You should also share something about yourself, especially your credibility, to discuss a particular subject matter.
Once you’ve laid out these foundations, state your central idea or thesis statement. Tell the audience members the point of view you want them to adopt, and give them a preview of the main points you’re discussing if you’re giving a persuasive speech. If you’re writing or delivering an informative one, you can provide them with a brief speech outline or the key points you’ll touch upon throughout the body of the speech.
What Are The Best Lines To Introduce A Speech?
One of the most common public speaking tips you’ll encounter is to have a good introduction. To help you capture the audience’s attention, here are some ideas you can use in your speech.
- A famous quote (For example, “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower” by Steve Jobs)
- A song lyric (“Imagine there’s no countries/ It isn’t hard to do/ Nothing to kill or die for/ And no religion, too,” from “Imagine by John Lennon)
- A line from a poem (“You may write me down in history With your bitter, twisted lies, You may trod me in the very dirt But still, like dust, I’ll rise,” from “Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou)
- A line from a movie (“Greed, for a lack of a better word, is good,” from “Wall Street”)
- Reference to a historical event (“Two hundred years ago, one of the most important proclamations was made. Through the Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Abraham Lincoln, the enslaved Black people were given freedom.”
- Reference to a notable figure (“Stan Lee, the man behind iconic Marvel characters, was hired as an editorial assistant at a comics company after graduating high school.”).
- A bold statement (“Prostitution must be legalized.”)
- A serious statement (“Climate change is a pressing issue.”)
- A humorous line (“Don’t underestimate me. That’s the job of my mom.”)
- A shocking statistic (“If you’re consuming too much fast food and baked goods, did you know that you are 51% more likely to be depressed?”)
- A direct question (“Who among here plays violent video games?”)
- A rhetorical question (“Is there a more powerful feeling than love?”)
- A personal story (“Back when I was a fresh college graduate, I busied myself applying to the top multi-national companies.”)
- An anecdote (“Long ago, there was a man — an old but healthy man — who dared climb Mount Everest. He was 80, and he succeeded.”)
- A what-if scenario (“What if there were no poor people?”)
How Do You Introduce Yourself In A Speech?
Whether you’re a first-time speaker or a veteran, how you approach introducing yourself in a speech is important in establishing your credibility. To avoid getting called boring, you might want to shy away from the usual “Hi, everyone. I’m (your name). I (your credentials), and today I will be talking about (points of the speech).”
Usually, someone else may have given your name and background. This gives you the liberty to begin your speech more interestingly.
You can start by stating any of the introduction lines listed above, then transition to why listening to you will matter to them. For example, if you’re talking about mental health and depression, you can follow up a surprising statistic with something like, “I know because I was a part of that statistic. Now, I’ve studied to become a therapist myself.”
To further create an air of authority, you must be mindful of your body language (taking a deep breath before speaking can help you shake off your nervousness and tension). Additionally, you must make eye contact and speak words clearly.
How Do You Introduce A Speaker?
Now, if you’re tasked to introduce the one who will deliver the speech, it’s your responsibility to set the right atmosphere and build excitement.
One of the first things to do is know how to pronounce the speaker’s name and ensure that what you’ll say about the speaker’s credibility is factual. Since you’re only introducing the speaker, keep things simple and concise. If you want to enrich your introduction, you can ask the speaker what they want to be highlighted (Do they have a new book? Which prestigious groups are they affiliated with?).
Like what the speaker would do, you must also make eye contact to engage the audience. Practice and have a run-through before you take the stage to guarantee a smooth delivery.
What Is An Example Of A Speech Introduction?
Speakers and speech writers know how challenging it is to grab an audience’s attention. Here’s a good example of an introductory speech that uses statistics. This is from English restaurateur Jamie Oliver who delivered a TED Talk about food:
“Sadly, in the next 18 minutes when I do our chat, four Americans that are alive will be dead from the food that they eat.
My name’s Jamie Oliver. I’m 34 years old. I’m from Essex in England, and for the last seven years, I’ve worked fairly tirelessly to save lives in my own way. I’m not a doctor; I’m a chef, I don’t have expensive equipment or medicine. I use information, education.”
What Is The Introduction For A Speech On Bully
Looking for inspiration for a good introduction where your topic is bullying? Check out this sample intro from actress and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Millie Bobby Brown during World Children’s Day in 2019:
“In world capitals — in buildings like this — adults talk about children’s rights. But today, young people don’t want to be talked about. They want to do the talking.
Millions of people responded to UNICEF surveys and petitions about what the Convention on the Rights of the Child meant to them. In the words of one young person: ‘Be an active voice. Don’t let things go unnoticed. So today, I want to talk about an issue that is very personal to me. Something that so often goes unnoticed — but causes real suffering. Bullying.”
What Are Some Other Examples Of Speech Introductions?
Below are some more speech introduction examples you can take inspiration from.
- “Three things I learned while my plane crashed” by Ric Elias : “Imagine a big explosion as you climb through 3,000 ft. Imagine a plane full of smoke. Imagine an engine going clack, clack, clack, clack, clack, clack, clack. It sounds scary. Well, I had a unique seat that day. I was sitting in 1D.”
- “How to find and do work you love” by Scott Dinsmore : “8 years ago, I got the worst career advice of my life.”
“How great leaders inspire action” by Simon Sinek : “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?”
Recent Posts
Active Listening Absorbs The Whole Message, Not Just The Words
Active listening goes beyond hearing the words someone is saying to you and understanding the message they are conveying. Many only hear a small percentage of what is being said as they are...
Counteracting Fear Of Public Speaking With Coaching And Therapy
Nearly 75% of people experience the social phobia of fear of public speaking. The result may be nervousness before speaking or a full-blown panic attack. Practicing public speaking may lessen the...
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
An introduction speech, or introductory address, is a brief presentation at the beginning of an event or public speaking engagement. Its primary purpose is to establish a connection with the audience and to introduce yourself or the main speaker.
An introduction speech, also known as an introductory speech or an icebreaker speech, is a short address given to introduce oneself or someone else to an audience.
Write your speech introduction using one of these 12 captivating attention getters and easily hook your audience's attention.
A speech introduction is the opening segment of a speech or presentation that aims to draw the audience’s attention and create an immediate connection with the topic. It serves as the gateway to your main ideas, allowing you to present your message effectively.
Presentation Introduction Speech Samples. These sample speeches showcase various approaches to opening presentations effectively, each crafted to suit different occasions and speaking scenarios. 1. The Personal Story Opener. “Three years ago, on a regular Tuesday morning, my phone rang. The call lasted exactly 47 seconds, but it changed ...
The job of an introduction speech is to: introduce your guest speaker, give them a warm welcome, and create ready-and-motivated-to-listen anticipation in the audience. Essentially you are the warm-up act. Your task is to focus and unite the audience members, to get them ready for what is to come. Return to Top.
Requirements for the ideal introduction for your speech. Know the outcome of your speech; Know your audience members; The goal of an ideal introduction to your speech; Giving a speech: seven perfect speech introductions. 1. He who asks, leads – starting with a question; 2. Start your speech with a quote; 3. Inspire your audience with ...
Below you will find examples of informative and persuasive introductions. Notice that each contains the five elements necessary for a good introduction: an attention getter, the establishment of rapport with the audience, the speaker’s credibility, a clear topic reveal, and clearly articulated main points. An important point to mention about ...
A speech introduction grabs the audience’s attention so that they are ready to receive the main message. Here are some introduction speech examples to help you.
The speech introduction is the first part of a speech and the first opportunity to grab the audience’s attention. The speaker should state the topic, make it relatable to the audience, establish credibility and preview the main points.