Beginning Your SpeechThe Better Speaker Series270

Criteria for a Successful OpeningGet the attention of the audienceIntroduce the topicEstablish rapportTake less than five to 10 percent of the entire speech time1

Opening TechniquesState the importance of your topicTell your listeners why the topic is important to them.2

Opening TechniquesMake a startling statementSmoking kills! More Americans die each year than were killed in battle during World War II and Vietnam together.3

Opening TechniquesArouse suspense or curiosityUse a series of statements related to the topic that would pique your listeners interest.4

Opening TechniquesTell a story or anecdoteMy brother and I went hunting last week in the woods behind my house5

Opening TechniquesAsk a rhetorical questionDo you know what to do if your child begins to choke?6

Opening TechniquesBegin with a quotation A quotation can:Add authority to a speechAmuse the audienceDramatize a speech point7

Opening TechniquesReference the occasionIt allows the speaker to recognize an unusual or important event and establish a common interest with the audience. 8

Other TechniquesHumorAudience participationA demonstrationA reference to a historical event9

Openings to AvoidAvoid acknowledging the amount of preparationAvoid being dull and boringAvoid delaying mention of the topic10

ConclusionA dynamic beginning is essential for a successful speech!11

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