An introductory speech can be entertaining even if it is short.
Serving as the opening speaker for a keynote address is a great honor, but it also brings a responsibility to adequately introduce both the speech giver and his topic in a short amount of time. You are responsible for making the key speaker feel comfortable, and also for framing the purpose of his address for the audience. While it can seem like a daunting task, delivering a concise and functional introductory speech is entirely possible with adequate preparation.
Instructions
1. Meet with the key speaker, or speak with her on the phone, before the event. Learn as much as you can about her personal history, expectations for the event and chosen topic. Take notes during your conversation that you can reference later. Attempt to build a friendly rapport with the speaker to help her feel comfortable before the event.
2. Write the rough draft of your speech on index cards. Your first point should be an introduction of yourself and your role to the audience. Then move on to speaking briefly about the key speaker's background and his unique qualifications that prepared him to deliver the address. Conclude your speech by explicitly introducing the key speaker's topic and the official name of his address.
3. Practice out loud. You should deliver your own address in front of a mirror and, if possible, tape record yourself speaking. This will help familiarize you with the tone and pacing of your introduction. Take note of any difficult or awkward phrases and edit them from your speech.
4. Rehearse in front of an audience of friends, family or coworkers. Read your newly edited speech just as you plan to at the event. Ask for constructive feedback on your delivery and the information you provide. Using the information your test audience provides, edit your speech for content one final time. If necessary, transfer your address to fresh index cards to avoid confusing your edited portions with your final draft.
5. Stay calm and poised the night of your introduction. Remind yourself that you are simply the jumping off point for the key speaker. Read your introduction just as you rehearsed in a steady and even tone while making plenty of eye contact with the audience.
Tags: your speech, your introduction, before event, feel comfortable, index cards, introductory speech, Read your