Lecture on Speech Openers

Introduction

• Speech opening can be stressful and nerve-wracking.
• Importance of knowing what to say and avoiding awkward moments.

Worst Ways to Open a Speech

1. Technical Issues
   • Avoid starting with technical glitches (e.g., lights, microphones).
   • Perform tech checks early to avoid distractions.
2. Mentioning Nervousness
   • Never highlight your nervousness; it's distracting for the audience.
   • Makes the audience focus on signs of nervousness.
3. Half-hearted Welcomes
   • Avoid generic or insincere welcomes.
   • Exception: Can be turned into a joke, as shown by Ken Robinson.

Best Speech Openers

1. Use of Stories
   • Stories capture audience attention and imagination.
   • Example: David Brooks shares a personal story to engage.
   • Story templates to use:
     • "Once upon a time..."
     • "The best thing that ever happened to me was..."
2. Presenting a Big Idea
   • Share the main idea right at the start.
   • Example: Stacy Smith discusses a pressing social issue (movies).
   • Templates:
     • "The single most important thing I want to share today is..."
3. Quirky One-liner
   • Incorporate humor or curiosity to start on a high note.
   • Suggestions:
     • "Did you know..."
     • "Have you ever wondered..."
   • Example: Vanessa's TED talk started with a quirky introduction.

Additional Resources

• Learn how to end speeches with 20 top closing lines from history at sciencepeople.com/closers.

Course Announcement

• Powerful Presentations Course
  • Framework for sharing ideas powerfully and confidently.
  • Covers presentation skills like mic handling, storytelling, and humor.
  • Available at science'people.com/presentations.