How to start your speech

It's All About the Intro.

Yes, I wrote an intro for myself. Simple, yet a good reminder!

Say your name. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of taking the stage, and many speakers (including me!) often forget to introduce themselves. Script this, if you have to. I did just that for a recent workshop on Productive Meetings (see photo). This was for rehearsal and a self-reminder only!

Say your bona fides. What makes you an expert? Why are you qualified to talk about this topic or deliver this training? Your audience wants to know why they should listen to you.

Say your purpose. Adult learners will not go along unless they know why you're speaking to them. (Being voluntold to attend is not good enough.) Feel free to be blatant: "The purpose of today's talk is ______." It's clear and reinforces your purpose. (Don't assume all attendees read the meeting invite.)