How to Start and End a Speech

Common Ineffective Starts

• Introducing yourself with redundant information.
  • Ex: "My name is Connor Neal. I'm from Tango and this talk is about the latest trend in monitoring strategies."
  • Audience already knows this; it disconnects them.
• Technical adjustments or time inquiries.
  • Ex: "Are the lights and mics working? How much time do I have?"
  • Appears unprepared, breaks engagement.

Effective Ways to Start a Speech

1. Question that Matters to the Audience
   • Pose a problem the audience faces as a question.
2. Factoid that Shocks
   • Use surprising facts to grab attention.
   • Ex:
     • "There are more people alive today than have ever died."
     • "Every two minutes, the energy reaching Earth from the Sun is equivalent to the annual usage of all humanity."
3. Tell a Story
   • Start like a child’s story: "Once upon a time..."
   • Engage the audience by creating anticipation.
   • Grown-up version: Share a personal anecdote or an experience.

The Importance of Stories

• Stories engage and connect the audience.
• Story Elements:
  • People, not objects.
  • Personal connections and experiences.
  • Sacrifices and changes witnessed.
• Example:
  • Instead of talking about software, discuss the people behind the software, their journeys, and sacrifices.
• Audience needs to trust and care about you to be engaged.

Key Takeaways

• Avoid starting with redundant information or unprepared technical adjustments.
• Use questions, shocking facts, or stories to start your speech effectively.
• Make speeches personal to connect with the audience.
• People engage with stories about people, not objects.
• Build trust and personal connection for audience engagement.