Beginning Your Speech
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Transcript of Beginning Your Speech
Beginning Your SpeechBeginning Your Speech
The Better Speaker SeriesThe Better Speaker Series
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Criteria for a Successful OpeningCriteria for a Successful Opening
• Get the attention of the audience
• Introduce the topic
• Establish rapport
• Take less than five to 10 percent of the entirespeech time
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Opening TechniquesOpening Techniques
Tell your listeners whythe topic is importantto them.
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State the importanceof your topic
Opening TechniquesOpening Techniques
Make a startling statement
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“Smoking kills! More Americans die each year than were killed in battle during World War II and Vietnam together.”
Opening TechniquesOpening Techniques
Arouse suspense or curiosity
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Use a series of statements related to the topic that would pique your listeners’ interest.
Opening TechniquesOpening Techniques
Tell a story or anecdote
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“My brother and I went hunting last week in the woods behind my house…”
Opening TechniquesOpening Techniques
Ask a rhetorical question
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“Do you know what to do ifyour child begins to choke?”
Opening TechniquesOpening Techniques
Begin with a quotation
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A quotation can:
•Add authority to a speech•Amuse the audience•Dramatize a speech point
Opening TechniquesOpening Techniques
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Reference the occasion
It allows the speaker to recognizean unusual or important event and establish a common interest withthe audience.
Other TechniquesOther Techniques
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• Humor• Audience
participation• A
demonstration• A reference to
ahistorical event
Openings to AvoidOpenings to Avoid
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• Avoid acknowledging the amount of preparation• Avoid being dull and boring• Avoid delaying mention of
the topic
ConclusionConclusion
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A dynamic beginning
is essential for a
successful speech!