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12+ Opening Speech Examples for Presentations & Quick Tips

Last updated on October 17th, 2023

These days, most of the audience prefers an informal approach in presentations, but at the same time, it must sound professional. When people prepare for any type of presentation, they often face this dilemma: how to start a presentation? What should be the opening speech? How much time should we take for the introduction part?

The first three minutes of your presentations are crucial to get to your audience with an engaging message and make the overall presentation effective. With the proper opening speech for your presentation, you can hook your audience, win the audience’s attention and get them audience interested in what you have to say. Check out some speech introduction examples to get familiar with this topic. Undoubtedly, if the beginning of your presentation is solid and exciting, the chances of success of your presentation increase. Opening your persuasive speech entirely depends upon your style and choice because when you are giving a presentation, you are required to be yourself and avoid putting artistic elements. So, choose something with which you are entirely comfortable.

If you are looking on how to start a speech then this article can help you to get some ideas. Here is a list of opening speech examples that you can use to prepare your presentations with a persuasive speech that convinces the audience. Find useful phrases and strategies to make your presentation a success:

1. Opening Speech with Greetings

This is the very basic, common and important step in which you need to greet your audience by wish them good morning/afternoon or evening (as per the time of session in which you are giving presentation). How to start a speech? Check out some of the examples below including a simple but effective speech introduction greeting example.

Example of Opening Greetings

Hello, everyone. I’d like, first of all, to thank the organizers of this meeting for inviting me here today.

Another example of opening Greeting speech.

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. I am honored to have the opportunity to address such a distinguished audience.

2. Open the Speech by Giving Compliment & Show Gratitude towards your Audience

Secondly, just after wishing greeting to your audience give them compliment and choose some words which show that you are delighted to see them there.

Example: 

It’s great to see you all, Thank you for coming here today.

3. Give your introduction: Introduce Yourself

How you introduce yourself during a presentation is important. There are many ways to introduce yourself. Here we will see some examples on how to introduce yourself in a presentation. First of all, give your introduction start from telling your name. You can show some casual attitude by telling your short name or nick name, and then tell the audience more about your background and what you do.

For example, a good way to start introducing yourself could be:

My name is Louis Taylor, friends call me Lee sometimes.

Then introduce yourself professionally and give quite information about what you do and why are here today. For Example:

I am a software engineer by profession and working in ABC Corp. Today, I am here to provide you some exciting information about new technology, which is going to be very beneficial for you in future.

Another example of self-introduction speech:

For those of you who don’t know me already, my name is Louis Taylor, and I’m responsible for the software department at ABC Corp.

Using a self-introduction template and slide in your presentation, you can support your speech while presenting the information about you in the projection. You can also visit self introduction speech examples to find out some examples on how to introduce yourself and download self-introduction templates for PowerPoint & Google Slides.

4. Opening with the Topic of the Speech

Next is the part where you introduce the topic of your presentation or speech. Here are some examples of good opening speech for presentations examples on a specific topic.

What I’d like to present to you today is…

Or here is a simplified example of a good introduction for presentation in which we try to get the audience’s attention over the screen where you are presenting the content of your PowerPoint or Google Slides presentation.

As you can see on the screen, our topic today is…

5. Signpost

Put all your information in front of them and then put your proposal and its related information and key point by which you can implement and utilize that idea effectively. Now let collect these points to make a summary and concise illustration. Here is an example of presentation starting speech that you can use:

“Good afternoon every one, it’s great to see you all here, thank you for coming. My name is Louis Taylor, friends call me Lee sometimes. I am a software engineer by profession and working with ABC Ltd. Today we are here to know about new software so that we can take most of it. Firstly, we will look how it work, next we will discuss where can we use it, then we will learn what are its advantages and finally we will discuss what precautions are required to kept in mind while implementing it.”

6. Creating an Emotional Connection in Your Opening Speech

An effective opening speech is not just about presenting information or stating facts; it’s about forging an emotional connection with your audience. Building this connection can make your presentation more engaging, relatable, and memorable. Here are some strategies to achieve this:

Storytelling: One of the most powerful ways to establish an emotional connection is through storytelling. Sharing a personal anecdote or a relevant story can evoke emotions and draw your audience into your presentation. Make sure your story aligns with the overall theme of your presentation and adds value to your message.

Example of speech opening:

“Good morning, everyone. When I was a little boy, I used to watch my grandfather work tirelessly on his old typewriter. The clacking of the keys was a lullaby that lulled me into dreams of creating something impactful. Today, I am here to talk about the evolution of technology and its effect on communication, from typewriters of old to the smartphones of today.”

Relatability: Find common ground with your audience. This could be based on shared experiences, values, or aspirations. Doing so helps to humanize you, making it easier for your audience to relate to your message.

“Like many of you, I too struggle with maintaining a work-life balance in this fast-paced digital world. Today, I’ll share some strategies I’ve discovered that have significantly improved my quality of life.”

Utilizing Emotions: Use emotions like humor, surprise, curiosity, or inspiration to engage your audience. Different emotions can be used depending on the tone and purpose of your presentation.

“Did you know that the average person spends two weeks of their life waiting for traffic lights to change? That certainly puts our daily commute in a new light, doesn’t it?”

Remember, authenticity is crucial in building an emotional connection. Be yourself, share your experiences, and speak from the heart. This helps to gain your audience’s trust and keeps them engaged throughout your presentation.

7. Harnessing the Power of Visual Aids in Your Opening Speech

Visual aids are a potent tool in any presentation, particularly in your opening speech. They can grab your audience’s attention with a visually appealing cover slide, support your message, and make a lasting impression. Here are some ways you can utilize visual aids in your opening speech.

Images: An image is worth a thousand words, they say, and it’s true. An impactful or relevant image can pique the curiosity of your audience and set the tone for your presentation. Ensure the image aligns with your topic and contributes to your overall message.

“As you can see on the screen, this is an image of a barren desert. It may surprise you to learn that this was once a thriving forest. Today, I’ll be talking about climate change and its irreversible effects.”

Short Videos: A short video can be a great way to engage your audience. This could be a brief clip that illustrates your topic, a short animation, or even a quick introductory video about you or your organization.

Example of a presentation opening statement:

“Before we start, let’s watch this brief video about the incredible journey of a raindrop.”

Infographics and Charts: If you are sharing statistical data or complex information, infographic slides or charts can simplify and clarify your message. They are visually engaging and can help your audience understand and remember the information.

“Take a look at this chart. It shows the exponential increase in cybercrime over the last five years, a topic that we will delve into further today.”

Slides: A well-designed slide can provide a visual structure for your opening speech. It should be clean, easy to read, and should not distract from your speech. Avoid cluttering your slides with too much text or complex graphics.

“According to the infographic on the screen, we can see the three core areas we’ll be focusing on in today’s presentation.”

Remember, the goal of using visual slides is to enhance your message, not overshadow it. They should complement your speech and provide visual interest for your audience. Always test your visual aids beforehand to ensure they work properly during your presentation.

8. Engaging Your Audience with Rhetorical Questions

A rhetorical question is a powerful tool you can use in your opening speech to provoke thought and engage your audience. By posing a question that doesn’t require an answer, you can pique your audience’s interest, make them think, and steer their focus towards your presentation’s key points. Here’s how to use rhetorical questions effectively in your opening speech:

Spark Curiosity: Use a rhetorical question to spark curiosity about your topic. This question should be thought-provoking and relevant to your presentation.

“Have you ever stopped to wonder how much of your life is influenced by social media?”

Highlight Key Issues: A rhetorical question can help highlight the key issues or problems that your presentation aims to address. This will help your audience understand the importance of your topic.

“What would happen if our natural resources were to run out tomorrow?”

Encourage Reflection: Encourage your audience to reflect on their personal experiences or beliefs. This will make your presentation more relatable and engaging.

“How many of us truly understand the value of our mental health?”

Set the Tone: You can also use a rhetorical question to set the tone of your presentation, whether it’s serious, humorous, or contemplative.

“Is there anyone here who doesn’t love pizza?”

Remember, rhetorical questions are meant to stimulate thought, not to put anyone on the spot. Make sure your questions are relevant to your topic and are appropriate for your audience. With the right questions, you can grab your audience’s attention, keep them engaged, and guide their thinking throughout your presentation.

9. Leveraging Statistical Data in Your Opening Speech

Using statistical data in your opening speech is a powerful way to capture the audience’s attention and lend credibility to your message. Surprising or impactful statistics related to your presentation’s topic can instantly make your audience sit up and take notice. Here’s how you can incorporate statistical data effectively in your opening speech:

Relevant and Interesting Data: Choose statistics that are directly relevant to your topic and are likely to pique your audience’s interest. This data should enhance your message and provide valuable context for your presentation.

“Do you know that according to the World Health Organization, depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, affecting over 264 million people?”

Simplify Complex Data: If you’re presenting complex or dense data, make sure to simplify it for your audience. Use percentages, comparisons, or visual aids like infographics or charts to make the data easily understandable.

“Look at this chart. It represents the staggering 80% increase in cybercrime incidents over the past five years.”

Credible Sources: Always ensure your data comes from credible and reputable sources. This not only adds legitimacy to your presentation, but it also boosts your credibility as a speaker.

“According to a recent study published in the Journal of Environmental Science, air pollution contributes to 1 in 8 deaths worldwide.”

Shocking or Surprising Data: If you have statistics that are surprising or counter-intuitive, they can be an excellent way to grab your audience’s attention and spark curiosity about your presentation.

“Can you believe that, according to the United Nations, we waste approximately 1.3 billion tons of food every year, while one in nine people worldwide go hungry?”

Using statistical data in your opening speech can help to highlight the significance of your topic, draw your audience in, and lay a solid foundation for the rest of your presentation. Remember to present your data in a clear, accessible way, and always cite your sources to maintain credibility.

10. Creating a Powerful Hook with Anecdotes and Quotations

Anecdotes and quotations can be a powerful tool in your opening speech, serving as hooks that draw your audience into your presentation. They can provide a human element to your topic, connect with your audience on an emotional level, and add depth to your message. Here’s how you can effectively incorporate anecdotes and quotations in your opening speech:

Relevant Anecdotes: Sharing a relevant anecdote, whether personal or related to your topic, can make your presentation more relatable and engaging. Your anecdote should be brief, interesting, and serve to illustrate a point related to your topic.

“When I was a teenager, my family’s home was destroyed by a fire. That experience ignited in me a passion for safety measures and awareness, which brings us to today’s topic: fire safety in residential areas.”

Inspiring Quotations: A well-chosen quote can add depth and perspective to your topic. It can inspire, provoke thought, or set the tone for your presentation. Presenting it with a visually appealing quote slide increases the chances to make a lasting impression. Make sure the quote is relevant to your topic and from a credible source.

“Albert Einstein once said, ‘The world as we have created it is a process of our thinking. It cannot be changed without changing our thinking.’ This leads us into our discussion today on the importance of mindset in personal development.”

Humorous Anecdotes or Quotations: Depending on the formality of the setting and the topic of your presentation, a funny anecdote or quote can help to relax the audience, making them more receptive to your message.

“Mark Twain once said, ‘I didn’t have time to write a short letter, so I wrote a long one instead.’ As a fellow writer, I can relate to this sentiment, which brings us to our topic today: the art of concise writing.”

Remember, your anecdote or quote should serve to enhance your message, not distract from it. It should be interesting, relevant, and appropriately timed. With the right anecdote or quote, you can create a powerful hook that engages your audience from the outset.

11. Integrating Storytelling in your Opening Speech

Storytelling is a compelling method to make your opening speech memorable and engaging. A well-told story can create a strong emotional connection with your audience, making your presentation more impactful. Here’s how to effectively weave storytelling into your opening speech:

Choosing the Right Story: The story you tell should be relevant to your topic and capable of illustrating the point you’re trying to make. It could be a personal experience, a case study, or a historical event.

“Years ago, I worked on a project that, at the outset, seemed destined for success. But due to a lack of clear communication within the team, the project failed. Today, we will be discussing the importance of effective communication within teams.”

Creating Suspense: Build suspense in your story to hold your audience’s attention. You can do this by posing a problem or a conflict at the beginning of your story, which gets resolved by the end of your presentation.

“One day, as I was walking through a remote village in Africa, I came across a scene that profoundly changed my perspective. But before I reveal what it was, let’s discuss the issue of clean drinking water in underdeveloped countries.”

Showing, Not Telling: Make your story more vivid and engaging by showing, not telling. Use descriptive language and paint a picture with your words to make your audience feel like they’re part of the story.

“As the sun rose over the bustling city of Tokyo, I found myself in a small sushi shop tucked away in a quiet alley, experiencing what would become a pivotal moment in my culinary journey.”

Relatable Characters: If your story involves characters, make them relatable. Your audience should be able to see themselves in your characters, or at least understand their motivations and challenges.

“Meet Sarah, a single mother of two, working two jobs just to make ends meet. Her struggle is the reason we’re here today, to discuss the issue of minimum wage in our country.”

Storytelling is a powerful tool that can bring your presentation to life. A well-told story can captivate your audience, making your message more memorable and impactful. Be sure to select a story that aligns with your overall message and is appropriate for your audience.

12. Incorporating Interactive Elements in Your Opening Speech

Involving your audience from the get-go can make your presentation more engaging and memorable. By integrating interactive elements into your opening speech, you can foster a sense of participation and connection among your listeners. Here’s how you can do it:

Audience Polling: Modern presentation software often includes real-time polling features. You can ask your audience a question related to your topic and display the results instantly.

“To start, I’d like to ask you all a question. (Show poll on screen) How many of you think that Artificial Intelligence will significantly change our lives in the next ten years?”

Questions for Thought: Pose a thought-provoking question to your audience at the beginning of your speech. It can stimulate curiosity and get your listeners thinking about your topic.

“Before we delve into today’s topic, I want you to ponder this: what would you do if you had only 24 hours left to live? Keep that in mind as we discuss the importance of time management.”

Physical Engagement: Depending on the formality and size of your audience, you can incorporate physical engagement. This can range from a simple show of hands to engaging activities.

“By a show of hands, how many of you have ever felt overwhelmed by the amount of information available on the internet? That’s what we’ll be discussing today: information overload in the digital age.”

Interactive Quizzes: Quizzes can be a fun and interactive way to engage your audience and test their knowledge on your topic. It can also serve as a hook to introduce your topic. You can use a free Quiz PowerPoint template to ease the job of creating a quiz for your presentation.

“I have a quick quiz for you all (show quiz on screen). Let’s see who can guess the most common fear among adults. The answer will lead us into our topic of discussion today: overcoming fear.”

Remember, the goal of incorporating interactive elements is to engage your audience, so it should be relevant and add value to your presentation. Tailor your interactive elements to suit the needs and preferences of your audience, and you’ll have a winning opening speech.

What are the Objectives of Preparing a Good Introduction and Opening Speech?

As we mentioned earlier, the first minutes of your presentation are crucial to hook the audience and let them pay attention to the message you want to convey. This will depend on the type of presentation (if it is persuasive presentation, informative presentation or a presentation for entertaining the audience), but in general terms, when presenting we need to:

• Capture the audience’s attention
• Present information, opinions, ideas to the audience.
• Present important details about a specific topic.
• Sell an idea.
• Make the information memorable so it can persist over the time.
• Get your audience to take action, a Call to Action. E.g. purchase a product, enroll to something, fundraise, etc.

Real-Life Examples of Effective Opening Speeches

Barack Obama started his speech in the White House Correspondents’ Dinner saying: “You can’t say it, but you know it’s true.”

In same cases, humour can be a great companion for your speech. If you can use humour in a positive way, then getting a laugh in the first seconds of a presentation can get your audience hooked. It is a great way to open your speech.

Final Thoughts

Try to make habit of starting your presentation this way, it will sound great. You may come across several more opening speech examples for presentation but, once you implement this you yourself will realize that this is the best one. Alternatively you can learn more on quotes for presentations & speech topics  to use during your presentation in PowerPoint, learn how to close your presentation , or find other relevant speech introduction greeting examples.

49 comments on “ 12+ Opening Speech Examples for Presentations & Quick Tips ”

thank you very much

Hi Kavishki, we hope the article was useful for you. Will be great to learn more about how you have used the speech examples. If you need more speech ideas, I’d recommend you free Persuasive Speech topics .

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Hi Kavishki, good morning. Can please provide more information about the Panel Discussion needs and if it involves a PowerPoint presentation? We’d be happy to be of help!

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Thanks for the useful information. Can I ask how can I improve my self-confidence so as not to be embarrassed when presenting? Any idea? Thank you.

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Presentations are a common part of our personal and professional lives. Whether you're a student, an employee, or an entrepreneur, mastering the art of presentations is a valuable skill.

A well-crafted presentation speech can inspire, inform, and engage your audience, leaving a lasting impact. 

So how can you craft an engaging presentation speech?

In this guide, we will walk you through the process of creating and delivering a compelling presentation, step by step. From writing your speech to mastering public speaking techniques, we've got you covered. 

So, let's dive in! 

• 1. What is a Presentation Speech?
• 2. How to Write a Presentation Speech?
• 3. How to Start a Presentation Speech?
• 4. How to End a Presentation Speech? 
• 5. Presentation Speech Examples 
• 6. Tips for Making Your Presentations More Engaging
• 7. Presentation Speech Topics

What is a Presentation Speech?

A presentation speech is a type of speech that serves to convey information, share ideas, persuade, or inspire a specific audience. A presentation speech is carefully planned and typically delivered in a formal setting, such as a classroom, a boardroom, or a conference.

In other words, a presentation speech can be defined as: 

A public speech that attempts to inform or convey a particular message effectively to a specific audience. 

Main Components of a Presentation Speech

The key elements that set a presentation speech apart are its intentionality and structure. Here's a breakdown of these crucial aspects: 

• Purpose 

Every presentation speech has a clear purpose, which could be:

• To persuade
• To entertain
• To inspire and motivate 

Understanding your purpose is the foundation upon which you build your speech.

A presentation speech typically follows a structured format that includes an introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction lays out the context, the body conveys the main content, and the conclusion reinforces the key points. 

Effective presentation speeches are tailored to the needs and expectations of the audience. Knowing your audience helps you choose the right tone, style, and content.

• Visual Aids

Presentation speeches often make use of visual aids like slides, props, or multimedia elements to enhance the message and keep the audience engaged.

How to Write a Presentation Speech?

Creating an effective presentation speech requires careful planning and organization. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you write a presentation speech effectively:

Determine the Audience

The first step in crafting a presentation speech is to understand your audience. Consider their background, knowledge, interests, and expectations. Are they experts in the subject, or are they new to it? This information will shape the tone and depth of your speech.

Choose a Topic

Select a topic that aligns with both your expertise and the interests of your audience. Your topic should be engaging and relevant. It could be a current issue, a problem-solving solution, or a subject of general interest. Make sure your passion for the topic shines through.

Research and Gather Information

To build a strong speech, gather credible information from a variety of sources. Use books, articles, online resources, and expert interviews. Keep track of your sources and make note of key statistics, quotes, and examples that support your message.

Make an Outline

Creating a structured outline for your presentation speech is essential for keeping your message organized and ensuring that your audience can follow your points easily. 

Here's how to construct a well-organized presentation speech outline:

Review and Revise

After you've written your speech, review it for clarity, coherence, and conciseness. Here are the steps you should take for reviewing your speech:

• Ensure that each point supports your main message and is easy to understand. 
• Check for grammar and spelling errors.
• Practice your speech in front of a mirror or with a friend. Pay attention to your delivery, pacing, and timing. Make necessary revisions based on your practice sessions.

Remember that a well-written presentation speech not only conveys your knowledge but also connects with your audience on a personal level. Your goal is to inform, persuade, or inspire, and the steps outlined here will help you achieve just that.

How to Start a Presentation Speech?

Now that you’ve written your presentation and its content, the time has come to deliver your speech. So, how to open a presentation speech effectively? 

The beginning of your presentation speech is your chance to make a strong first impression and captivate your audience's attention. 

Here are key steps to help you start your presentation speech effectively:

Begin with a Hook

Grab your audience's attention with a compelling opening. This could be a surprising fact, a thought-provoking quote, a relevant anecdote, or even a rhetorical question. The goal is to pique their interest right from the start.

Here are some example phrases that you can use to catch your audience’s interest:

• "Did you know that..."
• "Imagine a world where..."
• "I'd like to start with a story..."
• "Have you ever wondered why..."
• "Let's begin with a surprising statistic..."
• "Picture this scenario..."
• "Today, I want to share a secret with you..."
• "What if I told you that..."
• "To get your attention, I'll start with a riddle..."
• "I have a question for you:"

Learn more about crafting better hook statements with our complete guide to writing engaging hooks with hook examples .

Introduce Yourself

After the hook, briefly introduce yourself. Share your name and a few words about your background or expertise that make you a credible source on the topic. 

These example phrases below demonstrate how you can get the audience to know you:

• "Hello, I'm [Your Name], and I've been working in [relevant field] for [number of years]."
• "I'm [Your Name], and I've had the privilege of [mention significant achievement or experience]."
• "Good [morning/afternoon/evening], my name is [Name], and I'm here as a [your role] at [your organization]."
• "For those of you who don't know me, I'm [Your Name], and I specialize in [relevant expertise]."
• "It's a pleasure to be here with you today; I'm [Your Name], and my journey in [relevant field] has been truly inspiring."

Make sure to keep your introduction short and direct. If you take 20 minutes to introduce yourself, you might lose the audience’s interest in your speech. So, keep it clear and short. 

Mention the Topic or Purpose

After hinting at the topic through the hook and introducing yourself, you should clearly state the purpose or topic of your presentation. 

Let your audience know what they can expect to learn or gain from your presentation. This sets the stage for your audience, giving them a sense of direction.

• "Today, I'm going to share with you the key strategies to..."
• "The purpose of this presentation is to shed light on..."
• "In the next [time duration], I will explore the critical aspects of..."
• "I aim to help you understand the importance of..."
• "By the end of this presentation, you'll have a clear grasp of..."
• "Our goal today is to uncover the secrets of..."
• "I want you to leave here with actionable insights into..."
• "My objective is to show you how to achieve [specific goal]."
• "We're going to dive deep into the world of [presentation topic], and you'll walk away with..."

How to End a Presentation Speech? 

The conclusion of your presentation speech is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impact on your audience. A strong conclusion should effectively summarize your key points, reinforce your message, and inspire action or reflection. 

Here's how to end a presentation speech on a high note:

Summarize Key Points

Begin by recapping the main takeaways of your speech. Summarize the key points in a concise and clear manner. This reinforces the core message and helps your audience remember what you've shared.

Here are some helpful phrases you can use:

• "To recap our journey today..."
• "In conclusion, let's revisit the key takeaways..."
• "In summary, we've explored..."
• "To sum it up..."
• "As a quick reminder..."
• "So, to put it all together..."
• "In a nutshell..."
• "To reiterate our main points..."
• "Let's briefly go over what we've learned..."
• "In brief..."

End with Impact

Craft a memorable closing statement that reinforces the significance of your topic. This statement can be a thought-provoking quote, a powerful anecdote, or a call to action It should be emotionally engaging and leave a strong impression.

If your presentation aims to inspire action or change, make a clear and persuasive call to action. Encourage your audience to take specific steps based on the information you've provided. Whether it's signing a petition, making a change in their personal lives, or joining a cause, specify what you want them to do next.

For instance, you can end with these impactful words:

• "As we conclude, consider this..."
• "To leave you with something to ponder..."
• "This statistic is a sobering reminder..."
• "Let's close with an inspiring story..."
• "As we finish, remember..."
• "I want you to carry this message with you..
• "Now, I encourage you to take the next step..."
• "Let's turn knowledge into action..."
• "I challenge each of you to..."
• "It's time to make a difference, starting with..."

Thank the Audience

Express gratitude to your audience for their time and attention. A simple "thank you" goes a long way in building rapport and goodwill. 

You can also take some ideas from these “thank you” phrases:

• "I want to express my sincere gratitude to each one of you for being here today."
• "Thank you all for your time and attention throughout this presentation."
• "I'm truly grateful for the opportunity to share this information with you."
• "Your presence here means a lot, and I appreciate your engagement."
• "I'd like to take a moment to thank you for joining me in this discussion."
• "A big thank you to our attentive audience for being a part of this conversation."
• "I appreciate your willingness to be here and participate in this presentation."
• "Your presence has made this presentation more meaningful."
• "Thank you for being such a wonderful and responsive audience."
• "Your interest in this topic is greatly appreciated."

Open the Floor for Questions (if applicable) 

If you plan to have a question-and-answer session, invite your audience to ask questions. Be prepared to provide thoughtful and informative responses. The conclusion of your presentation speech should leave your audience feeling informed, inspired, and motivated. 

Presentation Speech Examples 

Taking help from good and structured presentation speeches will allow you to write and deliver the address smoothly. Here are some examples of presentation speeches you can follow to write a well-structured presentation. 

Award Presentation Speech Example

Product Presentation Speech Example

Thesis Presentation Speech Example

Presentation Speech Script Sample

Presentation Speech Template

Tips for Making Your Presentations More Engaging

Delivering a presentation speech that captivates your audience and leaves a lasting impression requires more than just good content. It also involves effective communication and engaging delivery. 

Here are some essential tips for giving better presentations:

Master Your Body Language

Sometimes, your body language speaks more than your words – make it say 'confident and engaging.'

• Maintain good posture; stand or sit tall with confidence.
• Make eye contact with your audience to establish a connection.
• Use hand gestures purposefully to emphasize key points.
• Move around the stage or speaking area to engage with different audience members.
• Smile and convey enthusiasm; it's contagious.

Focus on Voice and Tone

Presentations depend on your ability to speak. Use your speech strategically to enhance your presentation.

• Speak clearly and at a moderate pace, ensuring everyone can understand you.
• Vary your tone and pitch to avoid a monotone delivery.
• Use pauses strategically to emphasize important points or allow your audience to digest information.
• Adjust your volume to ensure everyone in the room can hear you without straining.
• Practice vocal warm-up exercises to avoid vocal strain.

Prepare for Nervousness & Anxiety

Embrace the butterflies in your stomach as the energy that fuels a stellar presentation. Here’s how you can do that:

• Prepare thoroughly; knowledge and practice reduce anxiety.
• Deep breathing and relaxation techniques can help calm nerves before and during your presentation.
• Visualize a successful presentation and focus on your message rather than your anxiety.
• Embrace the natural adrenaline rush as a source of energy and enthusiasm.
• Start with a familiar or engaging point to build confidence.

Welcome Questions and Feedback

The question and answer session can be a great opportunity to engage with your audience. Make it successful with these tips:

• Encourage questions and feedback to engage your audience and clarify any doubts.
• Be polite and patient when responding to questions or criticism.
• Use feedback as an opportunity for conversation and engagement.
• Anticipate relevant and common questions and practice their answers beforehand.

Tailor to Your Audience

The best speeches are those that are loved by the audience. Tailor your speech according to their expectations.

• Customize your speech to the interests and needs of your specific audience.
• Use language and examples that resonate with your listeners.
• Address any potential concerns or objections your audience might have.
• Research your audience's background and preferences in advance.
• Make sure your content is relevant and relatable to your audience.

Engaging Visual Aids

Visual aids should enhance, not overpower, your speech. Here is how to use them effectively:

• Use slides or visual aids sparingly, and keep them simple and clear.
• Avoid overcrowding slides with text; use visuals to complement your spoken words.
• Ensure that visuals are easy to read and understand from a distance.
• Practice with your visual aids to smoothly incorporate them into your speech.
• Be prepared to present without visual aids in case of technical issues.

Presentation Speech Topics

Now that you know how to write and deliver an engaging presentation, you may be wondering about a topic to speak on. You need a strong and interesting topic to make your presentation speech impactful. 

Here are some compelling presentation speech ideas to help you out:

• The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Job Market
• Climate Change and Sustainable Practices
• The Power of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
• The Art of Time Management
• The Future of Renewable Energy
• The Psychology of Decision-Making
• Mental Health Awareness and Reducing Stigma:
• Innovations in Space Exploration
• The Art of Negotiation
• The Role of Music in Society

Looking for compelling and thought-provoking topics for your presentation speech? Check out 100+ informative speech topics to inspire your next presentation.

To Conclude,

In the world of presentations, your ability to inform and persuade relies on the way you craft and deliver your speech. Mastering the art of a presentation speech requires careful planning, engaging delivery, and an accurate understanding of your audience.

So remember to make your outline, use engaging visual aids, and practice effective body language. With practice, patience, and passion, you can become a confident and impactful presenter. 

Need further help in making your presentation speech? No worries! 

MyPerfectWords.com is a professional speech writing service that provides versatile academic help. Whether you have a speech or a research paper to write, come to us. We have a team of experts to help you with all your writing needs. 

Place an order now to buy custom essay online  at affordable rates.

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Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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How To Start a Presentation: 15 Ways to Set the Stage

By Krystle Wong , Jul 25, 2023

The opening moments of your presentation hold immense power – it’s your opportunity to make a lasting impression and captivate your audience. 

A strong presentation start acts as a beacon, cutting through the noise and instantly capturing the attention of your listeners. With so much content vying for their focus, a captivating opening ensures that your message stands out and resonates with your audience.

Whether you’re a startup business owner pitching a brilliant idea, a seasoned presenter delivering a persuasive talk or an expert sharing your experience, the start of your presentation can make all the difference. But don’t fret — I’ve got you covered with 15 electrifying ways to kickstart your presentation. 

The presentation introduction examples in this article cover everything from self-introduction to how to start a group presentation, building anticipation that leaves the audience eager to delve into the depths of your topic.

Click to jump ahead:

How to start a presentation introduction

15 ways to start a presentation and captivate your audience, common mistakes to avoid in the opening of a presentation, faqs on how to start a presentation, captivate the audience from the get-go.

Presentations can be scary, I know. But even if stage fright hits, you can always fall back on a simple strategy.

Just take a deep breath, introduce yourself and briefly explain the topic of your presentation.

To grab attention at the start, try this opening line: Hello everyone. I am so glad you could join me today. I’m very excited about today’s topic. I’m [Your Name] and I’ll be talking about [Presentation Topic]. Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by [Challenge related to your topic]. Many of us might have faced challenges with [Challenge related to your topic]. Today, we’ll explore some strategies that’ll help us [Solution that you’re presenting].

Regardless of your mode of presentation , crafting an engaging introduction sets the stage for a memorable presentation.

Let’s dive into some key tips for how to start a presentation speech to help you nail the art of starting with a bang:

Understand your audience

The key to an engaging introduction is to know your audience inside out and give your audience what they want. Tailor your opening to resonate with their specific interests, needs and expectations. Consider what will captivate them and how you can make your presentation relevant to their lives or work.

Use a compelling hook

Grab the audience’s attention from the get-go with a compelling hook. Whether it’s a thought-provoking question, a surprising fact or a gripping story, a powerful opening will immediately pique their curiosity and keep them invested in what you have to say.

State your purpose

Be crystal clear about your subject matter and the purpose of your presentation. In just a few sentences, communicate the main objectives and the value your audience will gain from listening to you. Let them know upfront what to expect and they’ll be more likely to stay engaged throughout.

Introduce yourself and your team

Give a self introduction about who you are such as your job title to establish credibility and rapport with the audience.

Some creative ways to introduce yourself in a presentation would be by sharing a brief and engaging personal story that connects to your topic or the theme of your presentation. This approach instantly makes you relatable and captures the audience’s attention.

Now, let’s talk about — how to introduce team members in a presentation. Before introducing each team member, briefly explain their role or contribution to the project or presentation. This gives the audience an understanding of their relevance and expertise.

Group presentations are also a breeze with the help of Venngage. Our in-editor collaboration tools allow you to edit presentations side by side in real-time. That way, you can seamlessly hare your design with the team for input and make sure everyone is on track. 

Maintain enthusiasm

Enthusiasm is contagious! Keep the energy levels up throughout your introduction, conveying a positive and upbeat tone. A vibrant and welcoming atmosphere sets the stage for an exciting presentation and keeps the audience eager to hear more.

Before you think about how to present a topic, think about how to design impactful slides that can leave a lasting impression on the audience. Here are 120+ presentation ideas , design tips, and examples to help you create an awesome slide deck for your next presentation.

Captivating your audience from the get-go is the key to a successful presentation. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or a novice taking the stage for the first time, the opening of your presentation sets the tone for the entire talk. 

So, let’s get ready to dive into the 15 most creative ways to start a presentation. I promise you these presentation introduction ideas will captivate your audience, leaving them hanging on your every word.

Grab-attention immediately

Ask a thought-provoking question.

Get the audience’s wheels turning by throwing them a thought-provoking question right out of the gate. Make them ponder, wonder and engage their critical thinking muscles from the very start.

Share a surprising statistic or fact

Brace yourself for some wide eyes and dropped jaws! Open your presentation with a jaw-dropping statistic or a mind-blowing fact that’s directly related to your topic. Nothing captures attention like a good ol’ dose of shock and awe.

State a bold statement or challenge

Ready to shake things up? Kick off with a bold and daring statement that sets the stage for your presentation’s epic journey. Boldness has a way of making ears perk up and eyes widen in anticipation!

Engage with a poll or interactive activity

Turn the audience from passive listeners to active participants by kicking off with a fun poll or interactive activity. Get them on their feet, or rather — their fingertips, right from the start!

Venngage’s user-friendly drag-and-drop editor allows you to easily transform your slides into an interactive presentation . Create clickable buttons or navigation elements within your presentation to guide your audience to different sections or external resources. 

Enhance engagement by incorporating videos or audio clips directly into your presentation. Venngage supports video and audio embedding, which can add depth to your content.

Begin with an opening phrase that captures attention

Use opening phrases that can help you create a strong connection with your audience and make them eager to hear more about what you have to say. Remember to be confident, enthusiastic and authentic in your delivery to maximize the impact of your presentation.

Here are some effective presentation starting words and phrases that can help you grab your audience’s attention and set the stage for a captivating presentation:

• “Imagine…”
• “Picture this…”
• “Did you know that…”
• “Have you ever wondered…”
• “In this presentation, we’ll explore…”
• “Let’s dive right in and discover…”
• “I’m excited to share with you…”
• “I have a confession to make…”
• “I want to start by telling you a story…”
• “Before we begin, let’s consider…”
• “Have you ever faced the challenge of…”
• “We all know that…”
• “This is a topic close to my heart because…”
• “Over the next [minutes/hours], we’ll cover…”
• “I invite you to journey with me through…”

Build connection and credibility

Begin with a personal connection .

Share a real-life experience or a special connection to the topic at hand. This simple act of opening up creates an instant bond with the audience, turning them into your biggest cheerleaders.

Having the team share their personal experiences is also a good group presentation introduction approach. Team members can share their own stories that are related to the topic to create an emotional connection with your audience. 

Tell a relevant story

Start your presentation with a riveting story that hooks your audience and relates to your main message. Stories have a magical way of captivating hearts and minds. Organize your slides in a clear and sequential manner and use visuals that complement your narrative and evoke emotions to engage the audience.

With Venngage, you have access to a vast library of high-quality and captivating stock photography, offering thousands of options to enrich your presentations. The best part? It’s entirely free! Elevate your visual storytelling with stunning images that complement your content, captivate your audience and add a professional touch to your presentation. 

Use a powerful quote

Sometimes, all you need is some wise words to work wonders. Begin with a powerful quote from a legendary figure that perfectly fits your presentation’s theme — a dose of inspiration sets the stage for an epic journey.

Build anticipation

Provide a brief outline.

Here’s a good introduction for presentation example if you’re giving a speech at a conference. For longer presentations or conferences with multiple speakers especially, providing an outline helps the audience stay focused on the key takeaways. That way, you can better manage your time and ensure that you cover all the key points without rushing or running out of time.

Pose a problem and offer a solution

A great idea on how to start a business presentation is to start by presenting a problem and offering a well-thought-out solution. By addressing their pain points and showcasing your solution, you’ll capture their interest and set the stage for a compelling and successful presentation.

Back up your solution with data, research, or case studies that demonstrate its effectiveness. This can also be a good reporting introduction example that adds credibility to your proposal.

Preparing a pitch deck can be a daunting task but fret not. This guide on the 30+ best pitch deck tips and examples has everything you need to bring on new business partners and win new client contracts. Alternatively, you can also get started by customizing one of our professional pitch deck templates for free. 

Incite curiosity in the audience

Utilize visuals or props.

Capture your audience’s gaze by whipping out captivating visuals or props that add an exciting touch to your subject. A well-placed prop or a stunning visual can make your presentation pop like a fireworks show!

That said, you maybe wondering — how can I make my presentation more attractive.  A well-designed presentation background instantly captures the audience’s attention and creates a positive first impression. Here are 15 presentation background examples to keep the audience awake to help you get inspired. 

Use humor or wit

Sprinkle some humor and wit to spice things up. Cracking a clever joke or throwing in a witty remark can break the ice and create a positively charged atmosphere. If you’re cracking your head on how to start a group presentation, humor is a great way to start a presentation speech. 

Get your team members involved in the fun to create a collaborative and enjoyable experience for everyone. Laughter is the perfect way to break the ice and set a positive tone for your presentation!

Invoke emotion

Get those heartstrings tugging! Start with a heartfelt story or example that stirs up emotions and connects with your audience on a personal level. Emotion is the secret sauce to a memorable presentation.

Aside from getting creative with your introduction, a well-crafted and creative presentation can boost your confidence as a presenter. Browse our catalog of creative presentation templates and get started right away!

Use a dramatic pause

A great group presentation example is to start with a powerful moment of silence, like a magician about to reveal their greatest trick. After introducing your team, allow a brief moment of silence. Hold the pause for a few seconds, making it feel deliberate and purposeful. This builds anticipation and curiosity among the audience.

Pique their interest

Share a fun fact or anecdote.

Time for a little fun and games! Kick-off with a lighthearted or fascinating fact that’ll make the audience go, “Wow, really? Tell me more!” A sprinkle of amusement sets the stage for an entertaining ride.

While an introduction for a presentation sets the tone for your speech, a good slide complements your spoken words, helping the audience better understand and remember your message. Check out these 12 best presentation software for 2023 that can aid your next presentation. 

The opening moments of a presentation can make or break your entire talk. It’s your chance to grab your audience’s attention, set the tone, and lay the foundation for a successful presentation. However, there are some common pitfalls that speakers often fall into when starting their presentations. 

Starting with Apologies

It might be tempting to start with a preemptive apology, especially if you’re feeling nervous or unsure about your presentation. However, beginning with unnecessary apologies or self-deprecating remarks sets a negative tone right from the start. Instead of exuding confidence and credibility, you’re unintentionally undermining yourself and your message. 

Reading from Slides

One of the most common blunders in the opening of a PowerPoint presentation is reading directly from your slides or script. While it’s crucial to have a well-structured outline, reciting word-for-word can lead to disengagement and boredom among your audience. Maintain eye contact and connect with your listeners as you speak. Your slides should complement your words, not replace them.

Overwhelming with Information

In the excitement to impress, some presenters bombard their audience with too much information right at the beginning.

Instead of overloading the audience with a sea of data, statistics or technical details that can quickly lead to confusion and disinterest, visualize your data with the help of Venngage. Choose an infographic template that best suits the type of data you want to visualize. Venngage offers a variety of pre-designed templates for charts, graphs, infographics and more.

Ignoring the Audience

It’s easy to get caught up in the content and forget about the people in front of you. Don’t overlook the importance of acknowledging the audience and building a connection with them. Greet them warmly, make eye contact and maintain body language to show genuine interest in their presence. Engage the audience early on by asking a show of hands question or encourage audience participation. 

Lack of Clarity

Your audience should know exactly what to expect from your presentation. Starting with a vague or unclear opening leaves them guessing about the purpose and direction of your talk. Clearly communicate the topic and objectives of your presentation right from the beginning. This sets the stage for a focused and coherent message that resonates with your audience.

Simplicity makes it easier for the audience to understand and retain the information presented. Check out our gallery of simple presentation templates to keep your opening concise and relevant. 

Skipping the Hook

The opening of your presentation is the perfect opportunity to hook your audience’s attention and keep them engaged. However, some presenters overlook this crucial aspect and dive straight into the content without any intrigue. Craft an attention-grabbing hook that sparks curiosity, poses a thought-provoking question or shares an interesting fact. A compelling opening is like the key that unlocks your audience’s receptivity to the rest of your presentation.

Now that you’ve got the gist of how to introduce a presentation, further brush up your speech with these tips on how to make a persuasive presentation and how to improve your presentation skills to create an engaging presentation . 

How can I overcome nervousness at the beginning of a presentation?

To overcome nervousness at the beginning of a presentation, take deep breaths, practice beforehand, and focus on connecting with your audience rather than worrying about yourself.

How long should the opening of a presentation be?

The opening of a presentation should typically be brief, lasting around 1 to 3 minutes, to grab the audience’s attention and set the tone for the rest of the talk.

Should I memorize my presentation’s opening lines?

While it’s helpful to know your opening lines, it’s better to understand the key points and flow naturally to maintain authenticity and flexibility during the presentation.

Should I use slides during the opening of my presentation?

Using slides sparingly during the opening can enhance the message, but avoid overwhelming the audience with too much information early on.

How do I transition smoothly from the opening to the main content of my presentation?

Transition smoothly from the opening to the main content by providing a clear and concise outline of what’s to come, signaling the shift and maintaining a logical flow between topics.

Just as a captivating opening draws your audience in, creating a well-crafted presentation closing has the power to leave a lasting impression. Wrap up in style with these 10 ways to end a presentation .

Presenting virtually? Check out these tips on how to ace your next online presentation . 

Captivating your audience from the very beginning is crucial for a successful presentation. The first few moments of your talk can set the tone and determine whether your audience remains engaged throughout or loses interest. 

Start with a compelling opening that grabs their attention. You can use a thought-provoking question, a surprising statistic or a powerful quote to pique their curiosity. Alternatively, storytelling can be a potent tool to draw them into your narrative. It’s essential to establish a personal connection early on, whether by sharing a relatable experience or expressing empathy towards their needs and interests.

Lastly, be mindful of your body language and vocal delivery. A confident and engaging speaker can captivate an audience, so make eye contact, use appropriate gestures and vary your tone to convey passion and sincerity.

In conclusion, captivating your audience from the very beginning requires thoughtful preparation, engaging content and a confident delivery. With Venngage’s customizable templates, you can adapt your presentation to suit the preferences and interests of your specific audience, ensuring maximum engagement. Go on and get started today!

SpeakUp resources

Starting a presentation in english: methods and examples.

• By Jake Pool

If you’re going to make it in the professional world, most likely you’ll have to give a presentation in English at some point. No reason to get nervous!

Most of the work involved lies in the introduction. You may or may not need an English presentation PPT file, your topic, audience, or time limit may vary, but a strong opening is a must no matter what! Everything that follows can build from the opening outline you present to your audience.

Let’s look at some guidelines for starting a presentation in English. If you can master this part, you’ll never have to worry about the rest!

Opening in a Presentation in English

While it’s important to have your entire presentation organized and outlined, planning and organization are especially important in the introduction. This is what will guide you through a clear and concise beginning. Let’s look at how to start a presentation with well-organized thoughts .

Introduction Outline

• Introduce yourself and welcome everyone.
• State the purpose of your presentation
• Give a short overview of the presentation

As we say, it’s as easy as 1-2-3. (No need for a more detailed English presentation script!) Let’s examine the first step.

1. Introduce Yourself & Welcome Everyone

The self-introduction is your opportunity to make a good first impression. Be sure to open with a warm welcome and use language that is familiar and natural. Based on your audience, there are a few different expressions you can use to start your presentation.

If you’re presenting to coworkers who may already know you:

• Hello, [name] here. I would like to thank you all for your time. As you may know, I [describe what you do/your job title] I look forward to discussing [topic] today.
• Good morning/afternoon/evening everyone. Thank you for being here. For those who don’t know me, my name is [name], and for those who know me, hello again.

If you’re presenting to people you’ve never met:

• Hello everyone, it’s nice to meet you all. My name is [name] and I am the [job/title].
• Hello. Welcome to [event]. My name is [name] and I am the [job/title]. I’m glad you’re all here.

There are certainly more ways to make an introduction. However, it’s generally best to follow this format:

• Start with a polite welcome and state your name.
• Follow with your job title and/or the reason you’re qualified to speak on the topic being discussed.

2. State the Purpose of Your Presentation

Now that your audience knows who you are and your qualifications, you can state the purpose of your presentation. This is where you clarify to your audience what you’ll be talking about.

So, ask yourself, “ What do I want my audience to get from this presentation? ”

• Do you want your audience to be informed?
• Do you need something from your audience?
• Do you want them to purchase a product?
• Do you want them to do something for the community or your company?

With your goal in mind, you can create the next couple of lines of your presentation. Below are some examples of how to start.

• Let me share with you…
• I’d like to introduce you to [product or service]
• Today I want to discuss…
• I want to breakdown for you [topic]
• Let’s discuss…
• Today I will present the results of my research on [topic]
• By the end of this presentation, you’ll understand [topic]
• My goal is to explain…
• As you know, we’ll be talking about…

When talking about the purpose of your presentation, stick to your goals. You purpose statement should be only one to three sentences. That way, you can give your audience a clear sense of purpose that sets them up for the rest of the presentation.

3. A Short Overview of the Presentation

The final step in starting your presentation is to give a short outline of what you’ll be presenting. People like a map of what to expect from a presentation.

It helps them organize their thoughts and gives a sense of order. Also, it lets the audience know why they’re listening to you. This is what you’ll use to grab their attention, and help them stay focused throughout the presentation.

Here are some examples of how you can outline your presentation:

• Today, I’m going to cover… Then we’ll talk about… Lastly, I’ll close on…
• We’re going to be covering some key information you need to know, including…
• My aim with this presentation is to get you to… To do that we’ll be talking about…
• I’ve divided my presentation into [number] sections… [List the sections]
• Over the next [length of your presentation] I’m going to discuss…

That’s it! It’s as simple as 1-2-3. If you have a fear of public speaking or are not confident about presenting to a group of people, follow these three steps. It’s a simple structure that can get you off to a good start. With that in mind, there are other ways to bring your introduction to the next level too! Read on for bonus tips on how to really engage your audience, beyond the basics.

For a Strong Presentation in English, Engage your Audience

Presentations aren’t everyone’s strongest ability, and that’s OK. If you’re newer to presenting in English, the steps above are the basics to getting started. Once you’re more comfortable with presenting, though, you can go a step further with some extra tricks that can really wow your audience.

Mastering the skill of engaging an audience will take experience. Fortunately, there are many famous speakers out there you can model for capturing attention. Also, there are some common techniques that English-speakers use to gain an audience’s attention.

*How and when you use these techniques in your introduction is at your discretion, as long as you cover the 3 steps of the introduction outline that we discussed earlier.*

Do or say something shocking.

The purpose of shocking your audience is to immediately engage them. You can make a loud noise and somehow relate the noise to your presentation. Or, you can say, “ Did you know that… ” and follow with a shocking story or statistic. Either way, the objective is to create surprise to draw their attention.

Tell a story

Telling a story related to your presentation is a great way to get the audience listening to you.

You can start by saying, “ On my way to [location] the other day… ” or “ On my way here, I was reminded of… ” and then follow with a story. A good story can make your presentation memorable.

Ask your audience to take part

Sometimes a good introduction that captures attention will involve asking for help from the audience. You can ask the audience to play a quick game or solve a puzzle that’s related to your presentation. Also, you could engage the audience with a group exercise. This is a great way to get people involved in your presentation.

There are many more ways to engage the audience, so get creative and see what you can think up! Here are some resources that will help you get started.

Also, if you want to get better at public speaking (and help your English speaking too!), a great organization to know about is the Toastmasters . The organization is dedicated to helping you be a better speaker, and there are many local groups in America. They offer free lessons and events to help you master your English speaking, and also offer additional help to paying members.

The Takeaway

A presentation in English? No problem, as long as your introduction sets you up for success . Admittedly, this can be easier said than done. Native speakers and non-native speakers alike sometimes struggle with getting a good start on their English presentation. But the advice above can help you get the confidence you need to lay a good foundation for your next speech !

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What It Takes to Give a Great Presentation

• Carmine Gallo

Five tips to set yourself apart.

Never underestimate the power of great communication. It can help you land the job of your dreams, attract investors to back your idea, or elevate your stature within your organization. But while there are plenty of good speakers in the world, you can set yourself apart out by being the person who can deliver something great over and over. Here are a few tips for business professionals who want to move from being good speakers to great ones: be concise (the fewer words, the better); never use bullet points (photos and images paired together are more memorable); don’t underestimate the power of your voice (raise and lower it for emphasis); give your audience something extra (unexpected moments will grab their attention); rehearse (the best speakers are the best because they practice — a lot).

I was sitting across the table from a Silicon Valley CEO who had pioneered a technology that touches many of our lives — the flash memory that stores data on smartphones, digital cameras, and computers. He was a frequent guest on CNBC and had been delivering business presentations for at least 20 years before we met. And yet, the CEO wanted to sharpen his public speaking skills.

• Carmine Gallo is a Harvard University instructor, keynote speaker, and author of 10 books translated into 40 languages. Gallo is the author of The Bezos Blueprint: Communication Secrets of the World’s Greatest Salesman  (St. Martin’s Press).

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7 Creative Ways to Start Any Presentation (With Examples!)

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Published Date : December 4, 2020

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Creating an effective presentation is challenging and needs a lot of effort to become engaging with your audience. Many questions are indeed rounding up your head.

Like how to start a PowerPoint presentation and a class set-up presentation, it helps people, such as entrepreneurs, organize and disseminate their ideas flawlessly.

It clarifies intentions, concepts, and other feasible topics specifically. They may differ from execution, events, and for whom the presentation. 

With that, the bottom line and the question is how to do it. How do you start a Board Meeting &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;3:1-3:200&quot;&gt;A formal gathering of a company&#039;s board of directors, where they discuss strategic matters, review financial performance, make key decisions, and oversee the organization&#039;s governance.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;5:1-5:21&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Key Participants:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-11:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-7:102&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Board members:&lt;/strong&gt; Elected or appointed individuals responsible for guiding the company&#039;s direction.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;8:1-8:94&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Executives:&lt;/strong&gt; Company leaders like the CEO, CFO, and COO, who provide updates and reports.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;9:1-9:88&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Secretary:&lt;/strong&gt; Oversees logistics, records minutes, and ensures compliance with rules.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;10:1-11:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Legal counsel:&lt;/strong&gt; Offers guidance on legal matters and ensures adherence to regulations.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;12:1-12:12&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Purpose:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;14:1-19:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;14:1-14:78&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Strategic planning:&lt;/strong&gt; Setting the company&#039;s long-term direction and goals.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;15:1-15:81&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Financial oversight:&lt;/strong&gt; Reviewing financial reports, budgets, and investments.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;16:1-16:86&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Risk management:&lt;/strong&gt; Identifying and mitigating potential risks to the organization.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;17:1-17:76&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Executive evaluation:&lt;/strong&gt; Assessing the performance of company leadership.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;18:1-19:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Decision-making:&lt;/strong&gt; Approving key initiatives, investments, and policies.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;20:1-20:11&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Format:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-25:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-22:43&quot;&gt;Varies based on company size and culture.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;23:1-23:91&quot;&gt;Typically includes presentations, discussions, voting on proposals, and Q&amp;A sessions.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-25:0&quot;&gt;It may be formal with strict agendas or more informal with brainstorming sessions.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;26:1-26:26&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Public Speaking Roles:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;28:1-30:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;28:1-28:125&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;CEO and other executives:&lt;/strong&gt; Act as a &lt;strong&gt;public speaker&lt;/strong&gt;, presenting reports, answering questions, and defending proposals.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;29:1-30:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Board members:&lt;/strong&gt; May participate in discussions, ask questions, and occasionally propose or speak in favor of motions.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;31:1-31:39&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Addressing Public Speaking Anxiety:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;33:1-36:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;33:1-33:87&quot;&gt;Many executives and board members face &lt;strong&gt;public speaking anxiety&lt;/strong&gt; in these meetings.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;34:1-34:93&quot;&gt;Preparation, practicing presentations, and visualization techniques can help manage nerves.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;35:1-36:0&quot;&gt;Some companies hire &lt;strong&gt;public speaking coaches&lt;/strong&gt; to offer personalized guidance and improve communication skills.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;37:1-37:248&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Remember:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;37:1-37:248&quot;&gt;Effective board meetings require clear communication, active participation, and informed decision-making. By understanding the format, roles, and potential challenges, participants can contribute to a productive and impactful session.&lt;/p&gt; " href="https://orai.com/glossary/board-meeting/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">board meeting presentation, or how do you start a presentation introduction in class?

Many students are also struggling with how to start a case study presentation, and young entrepreneurs or start-ups are struggling with how to start a business presentation.

To ease the tension and upgrade your Confidence &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;3:1-3:305&quot;&gt;In the context of &lt;strong&gt;public speaking&lt;/strong&gt;, &lt;strong&gt;confidence&lt;/strong&gt; refers to the belief in one&#039;s ability to communicate effectively and deliver one&#039;s message with clarity and impact. It encompasses various elements, including self-belief, composure, and the ability to manage one&#039;s &lt;strong&gt;fear of public speaking&lt;/strong&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;5:1-5:16&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Key Aspects:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-12:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-7:108&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Self-belief:&lt;/strong&gt; A strong conviction in your knowledge, skills, and ability to connect with your audience.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;8:1-8:95&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Composure:&lt;/strong&gt; Maintaining calmness and poise under pressure, even in challenging situations.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;9:1-9:100&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Assertiveness:&lt;/strong&gt; Expressing your ideas clearly and concisely, avoiding hesitation or self-doubt.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;10:1-10:104&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Positive self-talk:&lt;/strong&gt; Countering negative thoughts with affirmations and focusing on your strengths.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;11:1-12:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Strong body language:&lt;/strong&gt; Using gestures, posture, and eye contact that project confidence and professionalism.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;13:1-13:27&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Benefits of Confidence:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;15:1-19:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;15:1-15:99&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Reduced anxiety:&lt;/strong&gt; Feeling confident helps manage &lt;strong&gt;fear of public speaking&lt;/strong&gt; and stage fright.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;16:1-16:133&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Engaging delivery:&lt;/strong&gt; Confident speakers project their voices, hold eye contact, and connect with their audience more effectively.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;17:1-17:137&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Increased persuasiveness:&lt;/strong&gt; A confident presentation inspires belief and motivates your audience to listen and remember your message.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;18:1-19:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Greater impact:&lt;/strong&gt; Confidently delivered speeches leave a lasting impression and achieve desired outcomes.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;20:1-20:15&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Challenges:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-26:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-22:112&quot;&gt;Overcoming &lt;strong&gt;fear of public speaking&lt;/strong&gt;: Many people experience some level of anxiety when speaking publicly.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;23:1-23:101&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Imposter syndrome:&lt;/strong&gt; Doubting your abilities and qualifications, even when objectively qualified.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-24:92&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Negative self-talk:&lt;/strong&gt; Internalized criticism and limiting beliefs can hamper confidence.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;25:1-26:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Past negative experiences:&lt;/strong&gt; Unsuccessful presentations or negative feedback can erode confidence.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;27:1-27:24&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Building Confidence:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;29:1-36:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;29:1-29:102&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Practice and preparation:&lt;/strong&gt; Thoroughly rehearse your speech to feel comfortable with the material.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;30:1-30:101&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Visualization:&lt;/strong&gt; Imagine yourself delivering a successful presentation with confidence and poise.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;31:1-31:100&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Positive self-talk:&lt;/strong&gt; Actively replace negative thoughts with affirmations about your abilities.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;32:1-32:106&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Seek feedback:&lt;/strong&gt; Ask trusted individuals for constructive criticism and use it to improve your skills.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;33:1-33:157&quot;&gt;Consider a &lt;strong&gt;speaking coach&lt;/strong&gt;: Working with a coach can provide personalized guidance and support to address specific challenges and confidence barriers.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;34:1-34:114&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Start small:&lt;/strong&gt; Gradually increase the size and complexity of your speaking engagements as you gain experience.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;35:1-36:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Focus on progress:&lt;/strong&gt; Celebrate small successes and acknowledge your improvement over time.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;37:1-37:282&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Remember:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;37:1-37:282&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Confidence&lt;/strong&gt; in public speaking is a journey, not a destination. By actively practicing, embracing feedback, and focusing on your strengths, you can overcome &lt;strong&gt;fear of public speaking&lt;/strong&gt; and develop the &lt;strong&gt;confidence&lt;/strong&gt; to deliver impactful and memorable presentations.&lt;/p&gt; " href="https://orai.com/glossary/confidence/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">confidence , furthermore those people above, I will share some tips, steps, and how to start a presentation example.

Why Presentation is Important in Persuading

Presentations break communication barriers. Across this, it brings mutual understanding to the audience.

In winning your stances and goals, having and knowing how to start a presentation is a must. It helps you more to give an idea of what your topic could be through moving pictures and graphics in reality. 

The role of presentation in persuading can be categorized into many factors. First, it helps your audience to feel more comfortable with your spiels.

Second, you have the chance to tell your options,  choices, summary, and the result of your case study, etc., within your presentation. Especially can be stoop on how to start a business presentation.

Lastly, knowing how to deliver and how to start a presentation in persuading your listener includes support for your audience’s decision. Through it, the concept of persuasion becomes more reliable with tangible materials. 

It is evident in thesis defenses and academic proposals. To start a case study presentation, you must present facts, stats, related studies, and other materials.

And to achieve that in a well-presented way, you need to think and come up with a composition associated with your topic to make it reliable and credible. 

Different Ways to Start a Presentation

Difficulties on how to start a case study presentation and the things you need to behold within your PowerPoint presentation would be easy after sharing with you this advice. 

As for direction and advice, take a look at this list to start a presentation generally. 

1. Start With a Strong Claim

The beginning is always the hard part of a presentation. But like a bottle of water, after it gets opened, the water inside can flow smoothly to your gulp.

Meaning after spitting out your first words, everything should follow accordingly to your presentation. That’s why it is the most crucial when you are learning how to start a presentation. 

Try to use the iconic lines of a famous philosopher —striking advice of a hotshot entrepreneur for your business proposal presentation.

Through this, you can have a good impression on your listener. Shook them and contradict their ideas; indeed, you can have an intense or beneficial presentation. 

2. Know Your Prospect

Besides technicalities and visuals, knowing first the current state, perspective, wants, and needs of your prospect or audience is vital.

Before the presentation, you can send them a pre-assessment or survey consisting of what they want to see and learn and things to keep them interested, or you need to get their attention and interest.

3. Assist the Flow With Visuals

Showing your audience a good spiel in presenting your developing ideas and concepts through pictures that can’t be put quickly in language can break communication drawbacks.

Apart from describing your idea in a presentation, you are also giving quick ways to dice abstract ideas.

4. Moving Pictures

Pictures and videos are great instruments for nurturing your ideas and your audience counterparts.

The power of moving pictures is evident as the film business and the movie industry is booming and depicting fictional stories into reality. 

5. Break People’s Expectation

To break the set expectations of your audience for you,  always stick to your premise. Whether on business, academics, proposals, and other topical presentations.

Call an action to smash misconceptions about your particular presentation. 

6. Spill Surprising Stories

Bring stories and the characters in life. Create conflict and suspense to highlight your goal’s presentation.

It also helps you to organize your presentation’s information to be catchy and relatable. Touching stories can affect audience decision-making. 

7. Know When to Pause 

Don’t present vague ideas, premises, and concepts. Stop bombarding your audience.

After a round of applause or before speaking, take a three-second pause. Observe your audience’s facial expressions. 

With that, you can focus on your tone. It is also an indication that you want to give your audience a short rest.  

Orai helps you perfect your Speech &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;3:1-3:271&quot;&gt;A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;5:1-5:27&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Components of a Speech:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-10:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-7:73&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Content:&lt;/strong&gt; The information, message, or story conveyed through words.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;8:1-8:106&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Delivery:&lt;/strong&gt; The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;9:1-10:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Structure:&lt;/strong&gt; The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;11:1-11:21&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Speech in Action:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;13:1-17:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;13:1-13:88&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Informing:&lt;/strong&gt; Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;14:1-14:119&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Persuading:&lt;/strong&gt; Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;15:1-15:93&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Motivating:&lt;/strong&gt; Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;16:1-17:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Entertaining:&lt;/strong&gt; Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;18:1-18:32&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Public Speaking and Anxiety:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;20:1-20:227&quot;&gt;Many people experience &lt;strong&gt;public speaking anxiety&lt;/strong&gt;, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it&#039;s common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-22:32&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Different Types of Speeches:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-28:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-24:81&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Informative speech:&lt;/strong&gt; Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;25:1-25:102&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Persuasive speech:&lt;/strong&gt; Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;26:1-26:99&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Motivational speech:&lt;/strong&gt; Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;27:1-28:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Entertaining speech:&lt;/strong&gt; Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;29:1-29:33&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Crafting a Compelling Speech:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;31:1-35:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;31:1-31:106&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Know your audience:&lt;/strong&gt; Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;32:1-32:107&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Have a clear message:&lt;/strong&gt; Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;33:1-33:111&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Engage your audience:&lt;/strong&gt; Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;34:1-35:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Practice, practice, practice:&lt;/strong&gt; Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;36:1-36:13&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Remember:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;38:1-38:281&quot;&gt;Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.&lt;/p&gt; " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech with feedback on your tone, tempo, Confidence &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;3:1-3:305&quot;&gt;In the context of &lt;strong&gt;public speaking&lt;/strong&gt;, &lt;strong&gt;confidence&lt;/strong&gt; refers to the belief in one&#039;s ability to communicate effectively and deliver one&#039;s message with clarity and impact. It encompasses various elements, including self-belief, composure, and the ability to manage one&#039;s &lt;strong&gt;fear of public speaking&lt;/strong&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;5:1-5:16&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Key Aspects:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-12:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-7:108&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Self-belief:&lt;/strong&gt; A strong conviction in your knowledge, skills, and ability to connect with your audience.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;8:1-8:95&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Composure:&lt;/strong&gt; Maintaining calmness and poise under pressure, even in challenging situations.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;9:1-9:100&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Assertiveness:&lt;/strong&gt; Expressing your ideas clearly and concisely, avoiding hesitation or self-doubt.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;10:1-10:104&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Positive self-talk:&lt;/strong&gt; Countering negative thoughts with affirmations and focusing on your strengths.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;11:1-12:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Strong body language:&lt;/strong&gt; Using gestures, posture, and eye contact that project confidence and professionalism.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;13:1-13:27&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Benefits of Confidence:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;15:1-19:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;15:1-15:99&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Reduced anxiety:&lt;/strong&gt; Feeling confident helps manage &lt;strong&gt;fear of public speaking&lt;/strong&gt; and stage fright.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;16:1-16:133&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Engaging delivery:&lt;/strong&gt; Confident speakers project their voices, hold eye contact, and connect with their audience more effectively.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;17:1-17:137&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Increased persuasiveness:&lt;/strong&gt; A confident presentation inspires belief and motivates your audience to listen and remember your message.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;18:1-19:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Greater impact:&lt;/strong&gt; Confidently delivered speeches leave a lasting impression and achieve desired outcomes.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;20:1-20:15&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Challenges:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-26:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-22:112&quot;&gt;Overcoming &lt;strong&gt;fear of public speaking&lt;/strong&gt;: Many people experience some level of anxiety when speaking publicly.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;23:1-23:101&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Imposter syndrome:&lt;/strong&gt; Doubting your abilities and qualifications, even when objectively qualified.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-24:92&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Negative self-talk:&lt;/strong&gt; Internalized criticism and limiting beliefs can hamper confidence.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;25:1-26:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Past negative experiences:&lt;/strong&gt; Unsuccessful presentations or negative feedback can erode confidence.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;27:1-27:24&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Building Confidence:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;29:1-36:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;29:1-29:102&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Practice and preparation:&lt;/strong&gt; Thoroughly rehearse your speech to feel comfortable with the material.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;30:1-30:101&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Visualization:&lt;/strong&gt; Imagine yourself delivering a successful presentation with confidence and poise.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;31:1-31:100&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Positive self-talk:&lt;/strong&gt; Actively replace negative thoughts with affirmations about your abilities.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;32:1-32:106&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Seek feedback:&lt;/strong&gt; Ask trusted individuals for constructive criticism and use it to improve your skills.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;33:1-33:157&quot;&gt;Consider a &lt;strong&gt;speaking coach&lt;/strong&gt;: Working with a coach can provide personalized guidance and support to address specific challenges and confidence barriers.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;34:1-34:114&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Start small:&lt;/strong&gt; Gradually increase the size and complexity of your speaking engagements as you gain experience.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;35:1-36:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Focus on progress:&lt;/strong&gt; Celebrate small successes and acknowledge your improvement over time.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;37:1-37:282&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Remember:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;37:1-37:282&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Confidence&lt;/strong&gt; in public speaking is a journey, not a destination. By actively practicing, embracing feedback, and focusing on your strengths, you can overcome &lt;strong&gt;fear of public speaking&lt;/strong&gt; and develop the &lt;strong&gt;confidence&lt;/strong&gt; to deliver impactful and memorable presentations.&lt;/p&gt; " href="https://orai.com/glossary/confidence/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">confidence , and Conciseness &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;3:1-3:326&quot;&gt;In the realm of &lt;strong&gt;public speaking&lt;/strong&gt;, &lt;strong&gt;conciseness&lt;/strong&gt; refers to the ability to express your message clearly and effectively using the fewest possible words. It&#039;s about conveying your ideas precisely, avoiding unnecessary details and rambling while maintaining your message&#039;s essence and impact.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;5:1-5:33&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Benefits for Public Speakers:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-11:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-7:137&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Engaged audience:&lt;/strong&gt; A concise speech keeps your audience focused and prevents them from losing interest due to excessive information.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;8:1-8:117&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Increased clarity:&lt;/strong&gt; By removing unnecessary clutter, your core message becomes clearer and easier to understand.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;9:1-9:137&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Enhanced credibility:&lt;/strong&gt; Concise communication projects professionalism and efficiency, making you appear more confident and prepared.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;10:1-11:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Reduced anxiety:&lt;/strong&gt; Knowing you have a clear and concise message can help manage &lt;strong&gt;public speaking anxiety&lt;/strong&gt; by minimizing the pressure to fill time.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;12:1-12:35&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Challenges for Public Speakers:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;14:1-17:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;14:1-14:126&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Striking a balance:&lt;/strong&gt; Knowing where to draw the line between conciseness and omitting important information can be tricky.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;15:1-15:115&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Avoiding oversimplification:&lt;/strong&gt; Complex topics may require elaboration to ensure clarity and understanding.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;16:1-17:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Overcoming natural tendencies:&lt;/strong&gt; Some speakers naturally use more words than others, requiring a conscious effort to be concise.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;18:1-18:41&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Strategies for Achieving Conciseness:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;20:1-25:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;20:1-20:92&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Identify your core message:&lt;/strong&gt; What is your audience&#039;s main point to remember?&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;21:1-21:128&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Prioritize and eliminate:&lt;/strong&gt; Analyze your content and remove any information not directly supporting your core message.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-22:133&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Use strong verbs and active voice:&lt;/strong&gt; This makes your sentences more impactful and avoids passive constructions that can be wordy.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;23:1-23:109&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Simplify your language:&lt;/strong&gt; Avoid jargon and technical terms unless they are essential and clearly defined.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-25:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Practice and refine:&lt;/strong&gt; Rehearse your speech aloud and identify areas where you can tighten your wording or eliminate redundancies.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;26:1-26:20&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Additional Tips:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;28:1-31:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;28:1-28:93&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Use storytelling:&lt;/strong&gt; Engaging narratives can convey complex ideas concisely and memorably.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;29:1-29:110&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Focus on the visuals:&lt;/strong&gt; Powerful visuals can support your message without extensive explanation.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;30:1-31:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Embrace silence:&lt;/strong&gt; Pausing deliberately can emphasize key points and give your audience time to absorb your message.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;32:1-32:404&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Remember:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;32:1-32:404&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conciseness&lt;/strong&gt; is a powerful tool for &lt;strong&gt;public speakers&lt;/strong&gt;. By eliminating unnecessary words and focusing on your core message, you can create a more engaging, impactful, and memorable presentation for your audience. This can also help manage &lt;strong&gt;public speaking anxiety&lt;/strong&gt; by reducing the pressure to fill time and enabling you to focus on delivering your message with clarity and confidence.&lt;/p&gt; " href="https://orai.com/glossary/conciseness/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">conciseness .

Things to Avoid on Presentation

Introducing your name along with your topic is not acceptable and is not a killer intro. To nail a presentation, be careful and prevent unnecessary elements. 

Here is the list of recommended things you should avoid on how to start a presentation.

1. Cliché Sentences

Do you believe that the flow and relevancy of your presentation depend on your introduction?

If you do believe, avoid cruddy beginnings, initials, and phrases. Instead of stating, “What will your presentation be about,” give them an idea of why they need it and why it is worth sharing.

2. Plain Visuals

Stop using standard PowerPoint templates, discarded pictures, and non-HD videos. For engaging your audience, mastering your spiels is not enough to convince your listeners.

The balanced presentation consists of a good Speech &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;3:1-3:271&quot;&gt;A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;5:1-5:27&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Components of a Speech:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-10:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-7:73&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Content:&lt;/strong&gt; The information, message, or story conveyed through words.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;8:1-8:106&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Delivery:&lt;/strong&gt; The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;9:1-10:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Structure:&lt;/strong&gt; The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;11:1-11:21&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Speech in Action:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;13:1-17:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;13:1-13:88&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Informing:&lt;/strong&gt; Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;14:1-14:119&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Persuading:&lt;/strong&gt; Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;15:1-15:93&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Motivating:&lt;/strong&gt; Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;16:1-17:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Entertaining:&lt;/strong&gt; Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;18:1-18:32&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Public Speaking and Anxiety:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;20:1-20:227&quot;&gt;Many people experience &lt;strong&gt;public speaking anxiety&lt;/strong&gt;, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it&#039;s common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-22:32&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Different Types of Speeches:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-28:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-24:81&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Informative speech:&lt;/strong&gt; Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;25:1-25:102&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Persuasive speech:&lt;/strong&gt; Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;26:1-26:99&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Motivational speech:&lt;/strong&gt; Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;27:1-28:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Entertaining speech:&lt;/strong&gt; Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;29:1-29:33&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Crafting a Compelling Speech:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;31:1-35:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;31:1-31:106&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Know your audience:&lt;/strong&gt; Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;32:1-32:107&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Have a clear message:&lt;/strong&gt; Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;33:1-33:111&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Engage your audience:&lt;/strong&gt; Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;34:1-35:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Practice, practice, practice:&lt;/strong&gt; Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;36:1-36:13&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Remember:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;38:1-38:281&quot;&gt;Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.&lt;/p&gt; " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech , spiels, and an enticing display. Instead of using plain visuals, use simple but complex graphics.

3. Lame Transitions

It is not all about effects or glitching transition effects but about how you transmit your spiels. Always open your arguments with a bang and end them using striking remarks. 

4. Unstable Stats and Facts

Don’t use outdated data, studies, and facts. Don’t go to less up-to-date data websites. 

Treat the facts and stats as vitamins for your presentation, as it helps your exhibition look reliable and robust.

5. Colorless Templates

Pick templates that fit your topic and theme—download innovative templates and slides. Analyze your presentation structure. 

Make sure to go for a font that suits perfectly to the presentation. Go for roadmaps, unique mats, and decks. 

Check out this video for more tips on how to avoid presentation pitfalls:

Steps to Enhance Your Visual Presentation

To sort things specifically on how to start a presentation. Here are the steps and tips on how to start a PowerPoint presentation.

Step 1: Get a Color Palette

“Colors speak louder than texts.”

Aside from shapes, figures, and moving objects, picking the right color palette for your presentation can beautify the board’s ambiance if that’s the case.

Logos and company icons have their color combination to mark and emphasize their brand to all consumers. It may also apply to presentations. 

If you want to be considered or remembered, start by choosing the right color palette. 

Step 2: Create a Theme

The theme supports the flow of your topic; it is the backbone of your presentation. Not considering this element can’t make your topic vague and not intact. 

Step 3: Add Hyperlinks

Going back to how to start a presentation,  comparing specific ideas is a waste of time. Using hyperlinks, you can offer your audience a “video game” theme.

Step 4: Play Short Video or  Create GIFS

Before or after spiels about a particular slide, play a short video as an icebreaker. It helps you to feed your audience with a large amount of information in a shorter period.

Step 5: Practice the Presentation with Spiels in Every Portion

Practice helps you to attain presentation skills. You can interact with your audience, disseminate the messages clearly, and analyze your listeners’ mindset. 

You can also improve the flow of run-throughs. These will support you to polish and enhance persuasive skills.

Practice your perfect Speech &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;3:1-3:271&quot;&gt;A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;5:1-5:27&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Components of a Speech:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-10:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-7:73&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Content:&lt;/strong&gt; The information, message, or story conveyed through words.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;8:1-8:106&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Delivery:&lt;/strong&gt; The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;9:1-10:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Structure:&lt;/strong&gt; The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;11:1-11:21&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Speech in Action:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;13:1-17:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;13:1-13:88&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Informing:&lt;/strong&gt; Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;14:1-14:119&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Persuading:&lt;/strong&gt; Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;15:1-15:93&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Motivating:&lt;/strong&gt; Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;16:1-17:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Entertaining:&lt;/strong&gt; Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;18:1-18:32&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Public Speaking and Anxiety:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;20:1-20:227&quot;&gt;Many people experience &lt;strong&gt;public speaking anxiety&lt;/strong&gt;, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it&#039;s common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-22:32&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Different Types of Speeches:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-28:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-24:81&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Informative speech:&lt;/strong&gt; Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;25:1-25:102&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Persuasive speech:&lt;/strong&gt; Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;26:1-26:99&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Motivational speech:&lt;/strong&gt; Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;27:1-28:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Entertaining speech:&lt;/strong&gt; Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;29:1-29:33&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Crafting a Compelling Speech:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;31:1-35:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;31:1-31:106&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Know your audience:&lt;/strong&gt; Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;32:1-32:107&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Have a clear message:&lt;/strong&gt; Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;33:1-33:111&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Engage your audience:&lt;/strong&gt; Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;34:1-35:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Practice, practice, practice:&lt;/strong&gt; Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;36:1-36:13&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Remember:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;38:1-38:281&quot;&gt;Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.&lt;/p&gt; " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech with Orai

Presentation Checklist 

Besides sharing the tips and steps on how to start a presentation, let me give you a sample presentation checklist to support and organize your presentation. 

This checklist may vary in every presentation. You can create and set your reminders. 

Vital Points of a Presentation 

To use your time wisely , try this outline on creating a presentation, such as how to start a Board Meeting &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;3:1-3:200&quot;&gt;A formal gathering of a company&#039;s board of directors, where they discuss strategic matters, review financial performance, make key decisions, and oversee the organization&#039;s governance.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;5:1-5:21&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Key Participants:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-11:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-7:102&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Board members:&lt;/strong&gt; Elected or appointed individuals responsible for guiding the company&#039;s direction.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;8:1-8:94&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Executives:&lt;/strong&gt; Company leaders like the CEO, CFO, and COO, who provide updates and reports.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;9:1-9:88&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Secretary:&lt;/strong&gt; Oversees logistics, records minutes, and ensures compliance with rules.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;10:1-11:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Legal counsel:&lt;/strong&gt; Offers guidance on legal matters and ensures adherence to regulations.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;12:1-12:12&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Purpose:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;14:1-19:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;14:1-14:78&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Strategic planning:&lt;/strong&gt; Setting the company&#039;s long-term direction and goals.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;15:1-15:81&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Financial oversight:&lt;/strong&gt; Reviewing financial reports, budgets, and investments.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;16:1-16:86&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Risk management:&lt;/strong&gt; Identifying and mitigating potential risks to the organization.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;17:1-17:76&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Executive evaluation:&lt;/strong&gt; Assessing the performance of company leadership.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;18:1-19:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Decision-making:&lt;/strong&gt; Approving key initiatives, investments, and policies.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;20:1-20:11&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Format:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-25:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-22:43&quot;&gt;Varies based on company size and culture.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;23:1-23:91&quot;&gt;Typically includes presentations, discussions, voting on proposals, and Q&amp;A sessions.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-25:0&quot;&gt;It may be formal with strict agendas or more informal with brainstorming sessions.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;26:1-26:26&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Public Speaking Roles:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;28:1-30:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;28:1-28:125&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;CEO and other executives:&lt;/strong&gt; Act as a &lt;strong&gt;public speaker&lt;/strong&gt;, presenting reports, answering questions, and defending proposals.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;29:1-30:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Board members:&lt;/strong&gt; May participate in discussions, ask questions, and occasionally propose or speak in favor of motions.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;31:1-31:39&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Addressing Public Speaking Anxiety:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;33:1-36:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;33:1-33:87&quot;&gt;Many executives and board members face &lt;strong&gt;public speaking anxiety&lt;/strong&gt; in these meetings.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;34:1-34:93&quot;&gt;Preparation, practicing presentations, and visualization techniques can help manage nerves.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;35:1-36:0&quot;&gt;Some companies hire &lt;strong&gt;public speaking coaches&lt;/strong&gt; to offer personalized guidance and improve communication skills.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;37:1-37:248&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Remember:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;37:1-37:248&quot;&gt;Effective board meetings require clear communication, active participation, and informed decision-making. By understanding the format, roles, and potential challenges, participants can contribute to a productive and impactful session.&lt;/p&gt; " href="https://orai.com/glossary/board-meeting/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">board meeting presentation and more. 

This table only serves as a sample outline. It may also vary depending on your topic and forte. 

How to Start Business Presentation and Other Samples

For all entrepreneurs, this portion is for you. To gratify your needs and to enlighten you on how to start a business presentation. Here are the basics.

• Create a Plan

Always start with a concrete plan to strengthen the body of your presentation. With that, your listeners can’t easily stab your presentation.

• Pick The Right Deck

If you are discussing in a formal setting, pick a deck with gray colors, choose dominant colors, and then combine.

• Tell Stories and Laugh

To balance the whole presentation, put some icebreakers and funny idioms about your topic. Make sure it is sensible.

• Add Verbal Cues and Signpost

It helps your audience to get intact through the presentation. Try to use signal transitions, such as words or phrases that would give interconnections.

• Collect Images and Charts

Of course, images and charts are vital. Make sure to use HD photos and reliable maps from data websites.

• Initiate Audience Interaction

After the presentation, evaluate it by asking your listeners if they have any questions. 

Questions like these must be considered and answered in your presentation.

• How would you design your material?
• How factual is it?
• What is the target deadline? Show your timeline.      

Watch this live Speech &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;3:1-3:271&quot;&gt;A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;5:1-5:27&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Components of a Speech:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-10:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-7:73&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Content:&lt;/strong&gt; The information, message, or story conveyed through words.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;8:1-8:106&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Delivery:&lt;/strong&gt; The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;9:1-10:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Structure:&lt;/strong&gt; The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;11:1-11:21&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Speech in Action:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;13:1-17:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;13:1-13:88&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Informing:&lt;/strong&gt; Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;14:1-14:119&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Persuading:&lt;/strong&gt; Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;15:1-15:93&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Motivating:&lt;/strong&gt; Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;16:1-17:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Entertaining:&lt;/strong&gt; Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;18:1-18:32&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Public Speaking and Anxiety:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;20:1-20:227&quot;&gt;Many people experience &lt;strong&gt;public speaking anxiety&lt;/strong&gt;, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it&#039;s common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-22:32&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Different Types of Speeches:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-28:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-24:81&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Informative speech:&lt;/strong&gt; Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;25:1-25:102&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Persuasive speech:&lt;/strong&gt; Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;26:1-26:99&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Motivational speech:&lt;/strong&gt; Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;27:1-28:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Entertaining speech:&lt;/strong&gt; Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;29:1-29:33&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Crafting a Compelling Speech:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;31:1-35:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;31:1-31:106&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Know your audience:&lt;/strong&gt; Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;32:1-32:107&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Have a clear message:&lt;/strong&gt; Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;33:1-33:111&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Engage your audience:&lt;/strong&gt; Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;34:1-35:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Practice, practice, practice:&lt;/strong&gt; Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;36:1-36:13&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Remember:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;38:1-38:281&quot;&gt;Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.&lt;/p&gt; " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech or business seminar to get different hooks and other strategies to impress your listeners with your business presentation:

3 Essential Parts on How to Start a Board Meeting Presentation

As your supervisor and other executives watch you presenting, stand tall and present like a boss through these points.

• Create the Structure of Your Presentation

It organizes the presentation and connects the main points to sub-points. With that, you can have minimal effort but impactful results.

• Build Big Introduction

Try to begin asking the “why’s,” furthermore, enlighten them of “hows.” How to conduct, how to execute, and how to surpass their limits.

Stop introducing your presentation with your name. Always start to implore your audience with no cliché intro.  

• Develop Your Data and Tell Crucial Parts

You can be ideological, symbolic, and rhetorical, and these things are not yet easy to comprehend without visuals. That’s why it is essential to develop and expand your data to make it understandable. 

Suppose you want to have a good impression when presenting a business proposal to your bosses and other hotshots. Watch this video on striking tips and techniques for a presentation:

Vital Aspects of How to Start a Case Study Presentation

Case study presentations are more technical, unlike the other displays. It should be specific, tangible, credible, and substantial.

Also, here are the vital points to follow. 

• Show the Possible Results. Collect the possible outcomes or predicted results. With that, you can jump to “how” you will carry the topic into different methods and production. 
• Prepare Back-Up Studies. Always have a backup; there are some unexpected circumstances, emergencies, and other possible matters that may ruin your original presentation. It is wise to prepare around three to six backup studies you can easily refer to. 
• Connect to Your Prospect’s Situation. Research on their state, status, and other related ideas. It will help your case study to get a thumbs up. 
• Focus on Deals. Keep in mind that you have a target deal. Always connect your study to the current agreement and profitable offers.

How to Start a Presentation Introduction in Class

Facing new students is challenging, right? If you want to get a good impression from your class in different situations, take a look at these tips.

• Present Yourself With Manners

Tell them briefly who you are and why you are there in front of them while showing the right conduct and manners. 

• Cite Your Objectives and Its Relevance

The material or your material must be the center of any presentation. Discuss its factuality and how tangible it is. Along with these, tell stories that may catch their interest and attention throughout the presentation.

• Leave Interesting Statement

End it with a bang! Make them think and stare at you. You can also give them riddles and some metaphorical set of words as an ending remark . 

Indeed, you will gain their participation, plus you are helping your listeners to think critically. 

Become a pro presenter. Download Orai and start practicing

How to Make an Unforgettable Start-Up Presentation 

To give more emphasis on how to start a business presentation and to help young entrepreneurs. I’ll share with you this detailed outline. I hope you tuck this with you. 

1. Set Goals For Your Business Presentation

Always set the stage with objectives. Since you are presenting to get clients and investment, it would help if you cleared how long it takes your business proposal.

2. Start With Provoking Questions or Stories

Never underestimate the power of storytelling. Initiate your presentation with real-life stories. 

Stating provoking questions can grab attention, positive or negative, is a good result. It helps you to get your listener’s ears and eyes. 

3. Show Alarming Statistics, Graphics as a Clue 

This recommendation is similar to a word game, the “4-pics, One Word,” demonstrating the idea or topic with photos will be more immersing. 

Visuals are one of the key points to expand a presentation. They are depicting patterns, diagrams, and trends. Lend quick analysis and predictions. 

By using graphics, you can easily sustain the interest of your listeners and attract more viewers. 

4. Know Your Material

Master your presentation and fill loops. And on your topic. Study the weak points and establish more of the strengths of the presentation. 

With that, you can derive the information smoothly. Take note of this. It is also vital on how to start a Board Meeting &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;3:1-3:200&quot;&gt;A formal gathering of a company&#039;s board of directors, where they discuss strategic matters, review financial performance, make key decisions, and oversee the organization&#039;s governance.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;5:1-5:21&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Key Participants:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-11:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-7:102&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Board members:&lt;/strong&gt; Elected or appointed individuals responsible for guiding the company&#039;s direction.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;8:1-8:94&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Executives:&lt;/strong&gt; Company leaders like the CEO, CFO, and COO, who provide updates and reports.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;9:1-9:88&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Secretary:&lt;/strong&gt; Oversees logistics, records minutes, and ensures compliance with rules.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;10:1-11:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Legal counsel:&lt;/strong&gt; Offers guidance on legal matters and ensures adherence to regulations.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;12:1-12:12&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Purpose:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;14:1-19:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;14:1-14:78&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Strategic planning:&lt;/strong&gt; Setting the company&#039;s long-term direction and goals.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;15:1-15:81&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Financial oversight:&lt;/strong&gt; Reviewing financial reports, budgets, and investments.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;16:1-16:86&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Risk management:&lt;/strong&gt; Identifying and mitigating potential risks to the organization.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;17:1-17:76&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Executive evaluation:&lt;/strong&gt; Assessing the performance of company leadership.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;18:1-19:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Decision-making:&lt;/strong&gt; Approving key initiatives, investments, and policies.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;20:1-20:11&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Format:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-25:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-22:43&quot;&gt;Varies based on company size and culture.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;23:1-23:91&quot;&gt;Typically includes presentations, discussions, voting on proposals, and Q&amp;A sessions.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-25:0&quot;&gt;It may be formal with strict agendas or more informal with brainstorming sessions.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;26:1-26:26&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Public Speaking Roles:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;28:1-30:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;28:1-28:125&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;CEO and other executives:&lt;/strong&gt; Act as a &lt;strong&gt;public speaker&lt;/strong&gt;, presenting reports, answering questions, and defending proposals.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;29:1-30:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Board members:&lt;/strong&gt; May participate in discussions, ask questions, and occasionally propose or speak in favor of motions.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;31:1-31:39&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Addressing Public Speaking Anxiety:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;33:1-36:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;33:1-33:87&quot;&gt;Many executives and board members face &lt;strong&gt;public speaking anxiety&lt;/strong&gt; in these meetings.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;34:1-34:93&quot;&gt;Preparation, practicing presentations, and visualization techniques can help manage nerves.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;35:1-36:0&quot;&gt;Some companies hire &lt;strong&gt;public speaking coaches&lt;/strong&gt; to offer personalized guidance and improve communication skills.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;37:1-37:248&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Remember:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;37:1-37:248&quot;&gt;Effective board meetings require clear communication, active participation, and informed decision-making. By understanding the format, roles, and potential challenges, participants can contribute to a productive and impactful session.&lt;/p&gt; " href="https://orai.com/glossary/board-meeting/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">board meeting presentation. 

5. Add Business-Related Stories and Humor

Put the top 10 successful corporations, traders, companies, and other information that may help you present your goal. Flash the motto of some famous entrepreneurs. Analyze or contradict it to gain more attention. 

Try to spiel some business jokes as an icebreaker. Any possible facts about business that you can use — catch it!

6. Hold Your Audience With Visuals

Play videos like a Public Service Announcement (PSA), but make sure it is connected to your topic. 

Learn how to start a business presentation that has movement and action for society. With that, your listeners may think your presentation is worth investing in. 

7. Relax and Have an Early Set-Up

Stay calm and don’t even think about drawbacks or shortcomings, especially the night before the presentation.

Make sure to pamper your body. Create also a plan B for unexpected circumstances.

8. Calculate Your Time and Sort it Into Parts

In your run-through, always set a timer. It gives you a heads up if you may look rushing or too slow in explaining each slide.

Being not responsible for other people’s time is a turn-off, especially in business, where time is essential in the industry. 

To present other samples wisely. Let me share some videos to rock and how to start a presentation:

What are some examples of great presentation structures and delivery techniques?

Successful presentations like “How Google Works” and “Start with Why” prove the power of Clarity &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;3:1-3:269&quot;&gt;In &lt;strong&gt;public speaking&lt;/strong&gt;, &lt;strong&gt;clarity&lt;/strong&gt; refers to the quality of your message being readily understood and interpreted by your audience. It encompasses both the content and delivery of your speech, ensuring your message resonates and leaves a lasting impact.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;5:1-5:16&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Key Aspects:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-13:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-7:133&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conciseness:&lt;/strong&gt; Avoid unnecessary details, digressions, or excessive complexity. Focus on delivering the core message efficiently.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;8:1-8:149&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Simple language:&lt;/strong&gt; Choose words and phrases your audience understands readily, avoiding jargon or technical terms unless you define them clearly.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;9:1-9:145&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Logical structure:&lt;/strong&gt; Organize your thoughts and ideas logically, using transitions and signposts to guide your audience through your message.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;10:1-10:136&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Effective visuals:&lt;/strong&gt; If using visuals, ensure they are clear, contribute to your message, and don&#039;t distract from your spoken words.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;11:1-11:144&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Confident delivery:&lt;/strong&gt; Speak clearly and articulately, avoiding mumbling or rushing your words. Maintain good eye contact with your audience.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;12:1-13:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Active voice:&lt;/strong&gt; Emphasize active voice for better flow and avoid passive constructions that can be less engaging.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;14:1-14:24&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Benefits of Clarity:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;16:1-20:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;16:1-16:123&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Enhanced audience engagement:&lt;/strong&gt; A clear message keeps your audience interested and helps them grasp your points easily.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;17:1-17:123&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Increased credibility:&lt;/strong&gt; Clear communication projects professionalism and expertise, building trust with your audience.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;18:1-18:111&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Improved persuasiveness:&lt;/strong&gt; A well-understood message is more likely to resonate and win over your audience.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;19:1-20:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Reduced confusion:&lt;/strong&gt; Eliminating ambiguity minimizes misinterpretations and ensures your message arrives as intended.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;21:1-21:15&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Challenges:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;23:1-27:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;23:1-23:129&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Condensing complex information:&lt;/strong&gt; Simplifying complex topics without sacrificing crucial details requires skill and practice.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-24:128&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Understanding your audience:&lt;/strong&gt; Tailoring your language and structure to resonate with a diverse audience can be challenging.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;25:1-25:85&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Managing nerves:&lt;/strong&gt; Nerves can impact your delivery, making it unclear or rushed.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;26:1-27:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Avoiding jargon:&lt;/strong&gt; Breaking technical habits and simplifying language requires constant awareness.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;28:1-28:22&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Improving Clarity:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;30:1-35:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;30:1-30:117&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Practice and rehearse:&lt;/strong&gt; The more you rehearse your speech, the more natural and clear your delivery will become.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;31:1-31:107&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Seek feedback:&lt;/strong&gt; Share your draft speech with others and ask for feedback on clarity and comprehension.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;32:1-32:161&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Consider a public speaking coach:&lt;/strong&gt; A coach can provide personalized guidance on structuring your message, simplifying language, and improving your delivery.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;33:1-33:128&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Join a public speaking group:&lt;/strong&gt; Practicing in a supportive environment can help you gain confidence and refine your clarity.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;34:1-35:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Listen to effective speakers:&lt;/strong&gt; Analyze how clear and impactful others achieve communication.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;36:1-36:250&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Remember:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;36:1-36:250&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Clarity&lt;/strong&gt; is a cornerstone of impactful &lt;strong&gt;public speaking&lt;/strong&gt;. By honing your message, focusing on delivery, and actively seeking feedback, you can ensure your audience receives your message clearly and leaves a lasting impression.&lt;/p&gt; " href="https://orai.com/glossary/clarity/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">clarity and simplicity. Both Schmidt and Sinek captivate audiences with straightforward messages enhanced by visuals (slides or whiteboard) that support, not overpower, their narratives. The lesson: ditch complexity, focus on your core message, and deliver it with a conviction for maximum impact.

How can group presentations be structured effectively?

Effective group presentations require thorough rehearsal, clean transitions, and speaker handovers. Recap your section, introduce the next speaker, and gesture towards them to link sections and keep the audience engaged.

How can physical movement enhance the delivery of my presentation?

Ditch the podium! Move around the stage to grab attention, connect with listeners, and emphasize key points. Strategic shifts in location signal transitions, while your energy and passion come alive through purposeful movement. Make your presentation dynamic and memorable – get moving!

How can I structure a presentation using the remaining method approach?

To master the “remaining method,” Briefly introduce the controversy, dive deep with your side (logos & pathos!), acknowledge and dissect opposing solutions, and then unveil your “remaining solution” as the superior answer. Wrap up with a strong summary and a call to action. Guide your audience, earn trust, and win them over!

What are the key elements involved in storytelling for presentations?

Ditch the dry facts! Captivate your audience with stories. Use classic structures like the hero’s journey or jump into the action with “in media res.” Craft your narrative with a clear plot, relatable characters, and a consistent tone. Tie it all back to your key points for maximum impact. Storytelling makes presentations memorable, engaging, and impactful – go forth and win hearts (and minds)!

How can I structure my presentation using the problem-solution method?

Hook them, hit them, fix them! Problem-solution presentations start with a clear pain point, delve deep with causes and impacts (think logic and emotions!), and then unveil your solution as the hero and its amazing benefits. Finish with a call to action – tell them what to do next! Simple, powerful, persuasive.

What are some common presentation structures beyond the typical format described in the passage?

Forget the slides; show and tell! Demo presentations explain the “what” and “why” of your product, then dazzle with a live showcase. Highlight problem-solving and potential uses to keep them hooked. Leave them curious and wanting more with a glimpse of what your product can truly do. It’s all about interactive understanding and engagement!

What is the purpose of the Q&A session at the end of a presentation?

Q&A isn’t just an add-on! It’s a chance to clear confusion, recap key points, and answer burning questions. Wrapping up the discussion, offering deeper dives, and inviting audience participation – it’s the perfect way to seal the deal and connect with your listeners.

What should be included in the main body of a presentation?

Ditch the tangents and deliver on your promises! The main body is where you unpack your points. Organize it clearly, hit each topic with evidence and examples, summarize as you go, and link your ideas. Keep it focused, relevant, and audience-friendly – take notes, stay on track, and make your impact!

How should the introduction of a presentation be structured?

Hook, roadmap, and expectations – that’s your intro! Briefly introduce the topic, explain why it matters and what you’ll cover, and tell the audience how long they’re in for and if they can participate. Set the stage, guide them through, and make them feel comfortable – then dive in!

Why is structuring a presentation important?

Get organized, and get remembered! Structure keeps your audience engaged and learning while boosting your Confidence &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;3:1-3:305&quot;&gt;In the context of &lt;strong&gt;public speaking&lt;/strong&gt;, &lt;strong&gt;confidence&lt;/strong&gt; refers to the belief in one&#039;s ability to communicate effectively and deliver one&#039;s message with clarity and impact. It encompasses various elements, including self-belief, composure, and the ability to manage one&#039;s &lt;strong&gt;fear of public speaking&lt;/strong&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;5:1-5:16&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Key Aspects:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-12:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-7:108&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Self-belief:&lt;/strong&gt; A strong conviction in your knowledge, skills, and ability to connect with your audience.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;8:1-8:95&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Composure:&lt;/strong&gt; Maintaining calmness and poise under pressure, even in challenging situations.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;9:1-9:100&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Assertiveness:&lt;/strong&gt; Expressing your ideas clearly and concisely, avoiding hesitation or self-doubt.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;10:1-10:104&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Positive self-talk:&lt;/strong&gt; Countering negative thoughts with affirmations and focusing on your strengths.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;11:1-12:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Strong body language:&lt;/strong&gt; Using gestures, posture, and eye contact that project confidence and professionalism.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;13:1-13:27&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Benefits of Confidence:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;15:1-19:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;15:1-15:99&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Reduced anxiety:&lt;/strong&gt; Feeling confident helps manage &lt;strong&gt;fear of public speaking&lt;/strong&gt; and stage fright.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;16:1-16:133&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Engaging delivery:&lt;/strong&gt; Confident speakers project their voices, hold eye contact, and connect with their audience more effectively.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;17:1-17:137&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Increased persuasiveness:&lt;/strong&gt; A confident presentation inspires belief and motivates your audience to listen and remember your message.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;18:1-19:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Greater impact:&lt;/strong&gt; Confidently delivered speeches leave a lasting impression and achieve desired outcomes.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;20:1-20:15&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Challenges:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-26:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;22:1-22:112&quot;&gt;Overcoming &lt;strong&gt;fear of public speaking&lt;/strong&gt;: Many people experience some level of anxiety when speaking publicly.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;23:1-23:101&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Imposter syndrome:&lt;/strong&gt; Doubting your abilities and qualifications, even when objectively qualified.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-24:92&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Negative self-talk:&lt;/strong&gt; Internalized criticism and limiting beliefs can hamper confidence.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;25:1-26:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Past negative experiences:&lt;/strong&gt; Unsuccessful presentations or negative feedback can erode confidence.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;27:1-27:24&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Building Confidence:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;29:1-36:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;29:1-29:102&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Practice and preparation:&lt;/strong&gt; Thoroughly rehearse your speech to feel comfortable with the material.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;30:1-30:101&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Visualization:&lt;/strong&gt; Imagine yourself delivering a successful presentation with confidence and poise.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;31:1-31:100&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Positive self-talk:&lt;/strong&gt; Actively replace negative thoughts with affirmations about your abilities.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;32:1-32:106&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Seek feedback:&lt;/strong&gt; Ask trusted individuals for constructive criticism and use it to improve your skills.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;33:1-33:157&quot;&gt;Consider a &lt;strong&gt;speaking coach&lt;/strong&gt;: Working with a coach can provide personalized guidance and support to address specific challenges and confidence barriers.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;34:1-34:114&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Start small:&lt;/strong&gt; Gradually increase the size and complexity of your speaking engagements as you gain experience.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;35:1-36:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Focus on progress:&lt;/strong&gt; Celebrate small successes and acknowledge your improvement over time.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;37:1-37:282&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Remember:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;37:1-37:282&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Confidence&lt;/strong&gt; in public speaking is a journey, not a destination. By actively practicing, embracing feedback, and focusing on your strengths, you can overcome &lt;strong&gt;fear of public speaking&lt;/strong&gt; and develop the &lt;strong&gt;confidence&lt;/strong&gt; to deliver impactful and memorable presentations.&lt;/p&gt; " href="https://orai.com/glossary/confidence/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">confidence and delivery. It’s a win-win for both the speaker and the listener!

Conclusion: 

To be an effective speaker or presenter, you must master how to start a presentation. Learn the basics and dynamics. 

Earn persuasive skills and grasp how to start a PowerPoint presentation with the steps and tips above to disseminate the information in a free-lingual way effectively. 

I hope you find this helpful; you are free to use these tips for any goals. 

You can try Orai , an AI-powered Speech Coach &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;3:1-3:411&quot;&gt;A &lt;strong&gt;speech coach&lt;/strong&gt; is a trained professional who provides personalized guidance and support to individuals seeking to improve their &lt;strong&gt;public speaking&lt;/strong&gt; skills. Whether you aim to &lt;strong&gt;master public speaking&lt;/strong&gt; for professional presentations, overcome stage fright, or simply hone your everyday communication, a &lt;strong&gt;speech coach&lt;/strong&gt; can tailor their expertise to meet your needs and goals.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;5:1-5:32&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;What Does a Speech Coach Do?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-13:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;7:1-7:124&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conduct assessments:&lt;/strong&gt; Analyze your strengths, weaknesses, and communication style through evaluations and observations.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;8:1-8:149&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Develop personalized plans:&lt;/strong&gt; Create a customized roadmap with exercises, techniques, and feedback to address your specific areas of improvement.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;9:1-9:167&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Offer expert instruction:&lt;/strong&gt; We will guide you through various aspects of public speaking, including vocal control, body language, content delivery, and overcoming anxiety.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;10:1-10:168&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Provide practice opportunities:&lt;/strong&gt; Facilitate mock presentations, simulations, and role-playing scenarios to refine your skills in a safe and supportive environment.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;11:1-11:114&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Offer constructive feedback:&lt;/strong&gt; Identify areas for improvement and suggest strategies for achieving your goals.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;12:1-13:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Boost confidence and motivation:&lt;/strong&gt; Encourage and support you throughout your journey, empowering you to become a confident and impactful communicator.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;14:1-14:40&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Who Can Benefit from a Speech Coach?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;16:1-20:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;16:1-16:174&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Professionals:&lt;/strong&gt; Refining public speaking skills can benefit executives, entrepreneurs, salespeople, leaders, and anyone who presents in professional settings.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;17:1-17:160&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Students:&lt;/strong&gt; Teachers, public speakers, debaters, and students wanting to excel in presentations or classroom settings can gain valuable skills with a coach.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;18:1-18:176&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Individuals who fear public speaking:&lt;/strong&gt; Coaching can help those who experience anxiety or nervousness when speaking in public develop strategies and gain confidence.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;19:1-20:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Anyone seeking to improve communication:&lt;/strong&gt; A coach can provide guidance to individuals seeking to enhance their communication skills for personal or professional development.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;21:1-21:28&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Types of Speech Coaches:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;23:1-26:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;23:1-23:110&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Private coaches:&lt;/strong&gt; Work one-on-one with individuals to provide highly personalized attention and feedback.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;24:1-24:130&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Group coaches:&lt;/strong&gt; Offer workshops or classes in group settings, often at a lower cost but with less individualized attention.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;25:1-26:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Specialization coaches:&lt;/strong&gt; Some coaches specialize in executive communication, storytelling, or presentation design.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;27:1-27:35&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Finding the Right Speech Coach:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;ul data-sourcepos=&quot;29:1-33:0&quot;&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;29:1-29:91&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Identify your goals:&lt;/strong&gt; What areas do you want to improve? What are your specific needs?&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;30:1-30:109&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Research credentials and experience:&lt;/strong&gt; Look for qualified coaches with relevant experience and expertise.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;31:1-31:122&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Consider availability and budget:&lt;/strong&gt; Set a budget and explore options that fit your schedule and financial constraints.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li data-sourcepos=&quot;32:1-33:0&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Schedule consultations:&lt;/strong&gt; Talk to potential coaches to assess their personality, approach, and compatibility with your needs.&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;h2 data-sourcepos=&quot;34:1-34:418&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Remember:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h2&gt; &lt;p data-sourcepos=&quot;34:1-34:418&quot;&gt;Investing in a &lt;strong&gt;speech coach&lt;/strong&gt; can be a transformative experience, enhancing your communication skills, boosting your confidence, and empowering you to achieve your communication goals. Whether you&#039;re a seasoned professional or just starting your journey, consider exploring the potential of working with a &lt;strong&gt;speech coach&lt;/strong&gt; to unlock your full potential as a communicator and &lt;strong&gt;master public speaking&lt;/strong&gt;.&lt;/p&gt; " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech-coach/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech coach that perfectly suits your budget! They provide instant feedback on you to help with your public speaking needs. Start your free trial with Orai today! 

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Presentation Speech

A speech template typically varies in context. This would depend on the purpose of the speech and how a speaker wishes to deliver it. It consists of key points that must be elaborated during the discussion. For any speaker, the goal is to covey a message in a clear and compelling manner.

However, public speaking is definitely not for everybody. There are several factors that must be considered when delivering a speech in word . With this in mind, it’s important for a speaker to present a speech that is sure to captivate an audience.

Retirement Presentation

Size: 164 KB

Award Presentation Speech

Size: 19 KB

Graduation Presentation

What Is a Presentation Speech?

A presentation speech typically consists of a presenter, an audience, and a message. It is a means of communication that is used to get a point across. This is usually given during group discussions, such as company meetings and the like.

How to Prepare a Speech Presentation

A speech presentation requires enough preparation for it to be effective. This would mean that the speaker must prepare an informative speech along with its supporting visual aids. But first, you must think about the purpose of the speech and the type of audience the speech will be delivered to.

With this, you will be able to gather enough materials that will be used for your speech presentation. This would include intensive research through journals, articles, interviews, and testimonies. By doing this, you may create a concise statement that states your purpose.

Constructing an outline will also create a good foundation for your speech outline . This will help you focus on key points that need to be emphasized in your speech.

Finally, you need to finalize it. Check for any mistakes in wording and transitions and make the necessary changes.

Sample Presentation Speech

Financial Results Presentation

Tips for Effective Presentations

• Connect with your audience. Interact with your listeners and make them feel as if they are a part of the conversation. A passionate speaker is sure to attract an audience.
• Concentrate on your central message. Focus on the message you want to relay to your audience by providing key points.
• Use visuals. Providing supporting visuals will allow your audience to further understand your message. You can use images, charts, graphs, and the like.
• Maintain eye contact. Eye contact is essential for face-to-face communication. This is sure to attract attentive listeners.
• Start out strongly. For any speech, such as a valedictorian speech , you’ll want to give a good first impression. A few minutes into your speech, you should be able to build a strong connection with your audience.
• Tell stories. Creating mental scenarios for your audience will help them pay attention. This speech in pdf will allow them to understand the point of your presentation and the morals that must be remembered.
• Move around. If possible, do not limit yourself to one position. Walk around and use hand gestures to emphasize your points. Allow your listeners to feel your passion for the subject.
• Come prepared. Have your materials ready and be sure to practice beforehand. You don’t want to be left stuttering during your presentation. This will only make your audience doubt your credibility.

Presentation Speech Generator

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How To Write A Presentation 101 | Step-by-Step Guides with Best Examples | 2024 Reveals

Jane Ng • 05 Apr 2024 • 8 min read

Is it difficult to start of presentation? You’re standing before a room full of eager listeners, ready to share your knowledge and captivate their attention. But where do you begin? How do you structure your ideas and convey them effectively?

Take a deep breath, and fear not! In this article, we’ll provide a road map on how to write a presentation covering everything from crafting a script to creating an engaging introduction.

So, let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

What is a presentation , what should be in a powerful presentation.

• How To Write A Presentation Script
• How to Write A Presentation Introduction 

Key Takeaways

Tips for better presentation.

• How to start a presentation
• How to introduce yourself

Start in seconds.

Get free templates for your next interactive presentation. Sign up for free and take what you want from the template library!

Presentations are all about connecting with your audience. 

Presenting is a fantastic way to share information, ideas, or arguments with your audience. Think of it as a structured approach to effectively convey your message. And you’ve got options such as slideshows, speeches, demos, videos, and even multimedia presentations!

The purpose of a presentation can vary depending on the situation and what the presenter wants to achieve. 

• In the business world, presentations are commonly used to pitch proposals, share reports, or make sales pitches. 
• In educational settings, presentations are a go-to for teaching or delivering engaging lectures. 
• For conferences, seminars, and public events—presentations are perfect for dishing out information, inspiring folks, or even persuading the audience.

That sounds brilliant. But, how to write a presentation?

How To Write A Presentation? What should be in a powerful presentation? A great presentation encompasses several key elements to captivate your audience and effectively convey your message. Here’s what you should consider including in a winning presentation:

• Clear and Engaging Introduction: Start your presentation with a bang! Hook your audience’s attention right from the beginning by using a captivating story, a surprising fact, a thought-provoking question, or a powerful quote. Clearly state the purpose of your presentation and establish a connection with your listeners.
• Well-Structured Content: Organize your content logically and coherently. Divide your presentation into sections or main points and provide smooth transitions between them. Each section should flow seamlessly into the next, creating a cohesive narrative. Use clear headings and subheadings to guide your audience through the presentation.
• Compelling Visuals: Incorporate visual aids, such as images, graphs, or videos, to enhance your presentation. Make sure your visuals are visually appealing, relevant, and easy to understand. Use a clean and uncluttered design with legible fonts and appropriate color schemes. 
• Engaging Delivery: Pay attention to your delivery style and body language. You should maintain eye contact with your audience, use gestures to emphasize key points, and vary your tone of voice to keep the presentation dynamic. 
• Clear and Memorable Conclusion: Leave your audience with a lasting impression by providing a strong closing statement, a call to action, or a thought-provoking question. Make sure your conclusion ties back to your introduction and reinforces the core message of your presentation.

How To Write A Presentation Script (With Examples)

To successfully convey your message to your audience, you must carefully craft and organize your presentation script. Here are steps on how to write a presentation script: 

1/ Understand Your Purpose and Audience

• Clarify the purpose of your presentation. Are you informing, persuading, or entertaining?
• Identify your target audience and their knowledge level, interests, and expectations.
• Define what presentation format you want to use

2/ Outline the Structure of Your Presentation

Strong opening.

Start with an engaging opening that grabs the audience’s attention and introduces your topic. Some types of openings you can use are: 

• Start with a Thought-Provoking Question: “Have you ever…?”
• Begin with a Surprising Fact or Statistic: “Did you know that….?”
• Use a Powerful Quote: “As Maya Angelou once said,….”
• Tell a Compelling Story : “Picture this: You’re standing at….”
• Start with a Bold Statement: “In the fast-paced digital age….”

Main Points

Clearly state your main points or key ideas that you will discuss throughout the presentation.

• Clearly State the Purpose and Main Points: Example: “In this presentation, we will delve into three key areas. First,… Next,… Finally,…. we’ll discuss….”
• Provide Background and Context: Example: “Before we dive into the details, let’s understand the basics of…..”
• Present Supporting Information and Examples: Example: “To illustrate…., let’s look at an example. In,…..”
• Address Counterarguments or Potential Concerns: Example: “While…, we must also consider… .”
• Recap Key Points and Transition to the Next Section: Example: “To summarize, we’ve… Now, let’s shift our focus to…”

Remember to organize your content logically and coherently, ensuring smooth transitions between sections.

You can conclude with a strong closing statement summarizing your main points and leaving a lasting impression. Example: “As we conclude our presentation, it’s clear that… By…., we can….”

3/ Craft Clear and Concise Sentences

Once you’ve outlined your presentation, you need to edit your sentences. Use clear and straightforward language to ensure your message is easily understood.

Alternatively, you can break down complex ideas into simpler concepts and provide clear explanations or examples to aid comprehension.

4/ Use Visual Aids and Supporting Materials

Use supporting materials such as statistics, research findings, or real-life examples to back up your points and make them more compelling. 

• Example: “As you can see from this graph,… This demonstrates….”

5/ Include Engagement Techniques

Incorporate interactive elements to engage your audience, such as Q&A sessions , conducting live polls, or encouraging participation. You can also spin more funs into group, by randomly dividing people into different groups to get more diverse feedbacks!

6/ Rehearse and Revise

• Practice delivering your presentation script to familiarize yourself with the content and improve your delivery.
• Revise and edit your script as needed, removing any unnecessary information or repetitions.

7/ Seek Feedback

You can share your script or deliver a practice presentation to a trusted friend, colleague, or mentor to gather feedback on your script and make adjustments accordingly.

More on Script Presentation

How to Write A Presentation Introduction with Examples

How to write presentations that are engaging and visually appealing? Looking for introduction ideas for the presentation? As mentioned earlier, once you have completed your script, it’s crucial to focus on editing and refining the most critical element—the opening of your presentation – the section that determines whether you can captivate and retain your audience’s attention right from the start. 

Here is a guide on how to craft an opening that grabs your audience’s attention from the very first minute: 

1/ Start with a Hook

To begin, you can choose from five different openings mentioned in the script based on your desired purpose and content. Alternatively, you can opt for the approach that resonates with you the most, and instills your confidence. Remember, the key is to choose a starting point that aligns with your objectives and allows you to deliver your message effectively.

2/ Establish Relevance and Context

Then you should establish the topic of your presentation and explain why it is important or relevant to your audience. Connect the topic to their interests, challenges, or aspirations to create a sense of relevance.

3/ State the Purpose

Clearly articulate the purpose or goal of your presentation. Let the audience know what they can expect to gain or achieve by listening to your presentation.

4/ Preview Your Main Points

Give a brief overview of the main points or sections you will cover in your presentation. It helps the audience understand the structure and flow of your presentation and creates anticipation.

5/ Establish Credibility

Share your expertise or credentials related to the topic to build trust with the audience, such as a brief personal story, relevant experience, or mentioning your professional background.

6/ Engage Emotionally

Connect emotional levels with your audience by appealing to their aspirations, fears, desires, or values. They help create a deeper connection and engagement from the very beginning.

Make sure your introduction is concise and to the point. Avoid unnecessary details or lengthy explanations. Aim for clarity and brevity to maintain the audience’s attention.

For example, Topic: Work-life balance

“Good morning, everyone! Can you imagine waking up each day feeling energized and ready to conquer both your personal and professional pursuits? Well, that’s exactly what we’ll explore today – the wonderful world of work-life balance. In a fast-paced society where work seems to consume every waking hour, it’s vital to find that spot where our careers and personal lives harmoniously coexist. Throughout this presentation, we’ll dive into practical strategies that help us achieve that coveted balance, boost productivity, and nurture our overall well-being. 

But before we dive in, let me share a bit about my journey. As a working professional and a passionate advocate for work-life balance, I have spent years researching and implementing strategies that have transformed my own life. I am excited to share my knowledge and experiences with all of you today, with the hope of inspiring positive change and creating a more fulfilling work-life balance for everyone in this room. So, let’s get started!”

🎉 Check out: How to Start a Presentation?

Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or new to the stage, understanding how to write a presentation that conveys your message effectively is a valuable skill. By following the steps in this guide, you can become a captivating presenter and make your mark in every presentation you deliver.

Additionally, AhaSlides can significantly enhance your presentation’s impact. With AhaSlides, you can use live polls , quizzes , and word cloud to turn your presentation into an engaging and interactive experience. Let’s take a moment to explore our vast template library !

Frequently Asked Questions

How to write a presentation step by step .

You can refer to our step-by-step guide on How To Write A Presentation Script: Understand Your Purpose and Audience Outline the Structure of Your Presentation Craft Clear and Concise Sentences Use Visual Aids and Supporting Material Include Engagement Techniques Rehearse and Revise Seek Feedback

How do you start a presentation? 

You can start with an engaging opening that grabs the audience’s attention and introduces your topic. Consider using one of the following approaches: Start with a Thought-Provoking Question: “Have you ever…?” Begin with a Surprising Fact or Statistic: “Did you know that….?” Use a Powerful Quote: “As Maya Angelou once said,….” Tell a Compelling Story : “Picture this: You’re standing at….” Start with a Bold Statement: “In the fast-paced digital age….”

What are the five parts of a presentation?

When it comes to presentation writing, a typical presentation consists of the following five parts: Introduction: Capturing the audience’s attention, introducing yourself, stating the purpose, and providing an overview. Main Body: Presenting main points, evidence, examples, and arguments. Visual Aids: Using visuals to enhance understanding and engage the audience. Conclusion: Summarizing main points, restating key message, and leaving a memorable takeaway or call to action. Q&A or Discussion: Optional part for addressing questions and encouraging audience participation.

A writer who wants to create practical and valuable content for the audience

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How to write a speech that your audience remembers

Whether in a work meeting or at an investor panel, you might give a speech at some point. And no matter how excited you are about the opportunity, the experience can be nerve-wracking . 

But feeling butterflies doesn’t mean you can’t give a great speech. With the proper preparation and a clear outline, apprehensive public speakers and natural wordsmiths alike can write and present a compelling message. Here’s how to write a good speech you’ll be proud to deliver.

What is good speech writing?

Good speech writing is the art of crafting words and ideas into a compelling, coherent, and memorable message that resonates with the audience. Here are some key elements of great speech writing:

• It begins with clearly understanding the speech's purpose and the audience it seeks to engage. 
• A well-written speech clearly conveys its central message, ensuring that the audience understands and retains the key points. 
• It is structured thoughtfully, with a captivating opening, a well-organized body, and a conclusion that reinforces the main message. 
• Good speech writing embraces the power of engaging content, weaving in stories, examples, and relatable anecdotes to connect with the audience on both intellectual and emotional levels. 

Ultimately, it is the combination of these elements, along with the authenticity and delivery of the speaker , that transforms words on a page into a powerful and impactful spoken narrative.

What makes a good speech?

A great speech includes several key qualities, but three fundamental elements make a speech truly effective:

Clarity and purpose

Remembering the audience, cohesive structure.

While other important factors make a speech a home run, these three elements are essential for writing an effective speech.

The main elements of a good speech

The main elements of a speech typically include:

• Introduction: The introduction sets the stage for your speech and grabs the audience's attention. It should include a hook or attention-grabbing opening, introduce the topic, and provide an overview of what will be covered.
• Opening/captivating statement: This is a strong statement that immediately engages the audience and creates curiosity about the speech topics.
• Thesis statement/central idea: The thesis statement or central idea is a concise statement that summarizes the main point or argument of your speech. It serves as a roadmap for the audience to understand what your speech is about.
• Body: The body of the speech is where you elaborate on your main points or arguments. Each point is typically supported by evidence, examples, statistics, or anecdotes. The body should be organized logically and coherently, with smooth transitions between the main points.
• Supporting evidence: This includes facts, data, research findings, expert opinions, or personal stories that support and strengthen your main points. Well-chosen and credible evidence enhances the persuasive power of your speech.
• Transitions: Transitions are phrases or statements that connect different parts of your speech, guiding the audience from one idea to the next. Effective transitions signal the shifts in topics or ideas and help maintain a smooth flow throughout the speech.
• Counterarguments and rebuttals (if applicable): If your speech involves addressing opposing viewpoints or counterarguments, you should acknowledge and address them. Presenting counterarguments makes your speech more persuasive and demonstrates critical thinking.
• Conclusion: The conclusion is the final part of your speech and should bring your message to a satisfying close. Summarize your main points, restate your thesis statement, and leave the audience with a memorable closing thought or call to action.
• Closing statement: This is the final statement that leaves a lasting impression and reinforces the main message of your speech. It can be a call to action, a thought-provoking question, a powerful quote, or a memorable anecdote.
• Delivery and presentation: How you deliver your speech is also an essential element to consider. Pay attention to your tone, body language, eye contact , voice modulation, and timing. Practice and rehearse your speech, and try using the 7-38-55 rule to ensure confident and effective delivery.

While the order and emphasis of these elements may vary depending on the type of speech and audience, these elements provide a framework for organizing and delivering a successful speech.

How to structure a good speech

You know what message you want to transmit, who you’re delivering it to, and even how you want to say it. But you need to know how to start, develop, and close a speech before writing it. 

Think of a speech like an essay. It should have an introduction, conclusion, and body sections in between. This places ideas in a logical order that the audience can better understand and follow them. Learning how to make a speech with an outline gives your storytelling the scaffolding it needs to get its point across.

Here’s a general speech structure to guide your writing process:

• Explanation 1
• Explanation 2
• Explanation 3

How to write a compelling speech opener

Some research shows that engaged audiences pay attention for only 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Other estimates are even lower, citing that people stop listening intently in fewer than 10 minutes . If you make a good first impression at the beginning of your speech, you have a better chance of interesting your audience through the middle when attention spans fade. 

Implementing the INTRO model can help grab and keep your audience’s attention as soon as you start speaking. This acronym stands for interest, need, timing, roadmap, and objectives, and it represents the key points you should hit in an opening. 

Here’s what to include for each of these points: 

• Interest : Introduce yourself or your topic concisely and speak with confidence . Write a compelling opening statement using relevant data or an anecdote that the audience can relate to.
• Needs : The audience is listening to you because they have something to learn. If you’re pitching a new app idea to a panel of investors, those potential partners want to discover more about your product and what they can earn from it. Read the room and gently remind them of the purpose of your speech. 
• Timing : When appropriate, let your audience know how long you’ll speak. This lets listeners set expectations and keep tabs on their own attention span. If a weary audience member knows you’ll talk for 40 minutes, they can better manage their energy as that time goes on. 
• Routemap : Give a brief overview of the three main points you’ll cover in your speech. If an audience member’s attention starts to drop off and they miss a few sentences, they can more easily get their bearings if they know the general outline of the presentation.
• Objectives : Tell the audience what you hope to achieve, encouraging them to listen to the end for the payout. 

Writing the middle of a speech

The body of your speech is the most information-dense section. Facts, visual aids, PowerPoints — all this information meets an audience with a waning attention span. Sticking to the speech structure gives your message focus and keeps you from going off track, making everything you say as useful as possible.

Limit the middle of your speech to three points, and support them with no more than three explanations. Following this model organizes your thoughts and prevents you from offering more information than the audience can retain. 

Using this section of the speech to make your presentation interactive can add interest and engage your audience. Try including a video or demonstration to break the monotony. A quick poll or survey also keeps the audience on their toes. 

Wrapping the speech up

To you, restating your points at the end can feel repetitive and dull. You’ve practiced countless times and heard it all before. But repetition aids memory and learning , helping your audience retain what you’ve told them. Use your speech’s conclusion to summarize the main points with a few short sentences.

Try to end on a memorable note, like posing a motivational quote or a thoughtful question the audience can contemplate once they leave. In proposal or pitch-style speeches, consider landing on a call to action (CTA) that invites your audience to take the next step.

How to write a good speech

If public speaking gives you the jitters, you’re not alone. Roughly 80% of the population feels nervous before giving a speech, and another 10% percent experiences intense anxiety and sometimes even panic. 

The fear of failure can cause procrastination and can cause you to put off your speechwriting process until the last minute. Finding the right words takes time and preparation, and if you’re already feeling nervous, starting from a blank page might seem even harder.

But putting in the effort despite your stress is worth it. Presenting a speech you worked hard on fosters authenticity and connects you to the subject matter, which can help your audience understand your points better. Human connection is all about honesty and vulnerability, and if you want to connect to the people you’re speaking to, they should see that in you.

1. Identify your objectives and target audience

Before diving into the writing process, find healthy coping strategies to help you stop worrying . Then you can define your speech’s purpose, think about your target audience, and start identifying your objectives. Here are some questions to ask yourself and ground your thinking : 

• What purpose do I want my speech to achieve? 
• What would it mean to me if I achieved the speech’s purpose?
• What audience am I writing for? 
• What do I know about my audience? 
• What values do I want to transmit? 
• If the audience remembers one take-home message, what should it be? 
• What do I want my audience to feel, think, or do after I finish speaking? 
• What parts of my message could be confusing and require further explanation?

2. Know your audience

Understanding your audience is crucial for tailoring your speech effectively. Consider the demographics of your audience, their interests, and their expectations. For instance, if you're addressing a group of healthcare professionals, you'll want to use medical terminology and data that resonate with them. Conversely, if your audience is a group of young students, you'd adjust your content to be more relatable to their experiences and interests. 

3. Choose a clear message

Your message should be the central idea that you want your audience to take away from your speech. Let's say you're giving a speech on climate change. Your clear message might be something like, "Individual actions can make a significant impact on mitigating climate change." Throughout your speech, all your points and examples should support this central message, reinforcing it for your audience.

4. Structure your speech

Organizing your speech properly keeps your audience engaged and helps them follow your ideas. The introduction should grab your audience's attention and introduce the topic. For example, if you're discussing space exploration, you could start with a fascinating fact about a recent space mission. In the body, you'd present your main points logically, such as the history of space exploration, its scientific significance, and future prospects. Finally, in the conclusion, you'd summarize your key points and reiterate the importance of space exploration in advancing human knowledge.

5. Use engaging content for clarity

Engaging content includes stories, anecdotes, statistics, and examples that illustrate your main points. For instance, if you're giving a speech about the importance of reading, you might share a personal story about how a particular book changed your perspective. You could also include statistics on the benefits of reading, such as improved cognitive abilities and empathy.

6. Maintain clarity and simplicity

It's essential to communicate your ideas clearly. Avoid using overly technical jargon or complex language that might confuse your audience. For example, if you're discussing a medical breakthrough with a non-medical audience, explain complex terms in simple, understandable language.

7. Practice and rehearse

Practice is key to delivering a great speech. Rehearse multiple times to refine your delivery, timing, and tone. Consider using a mirror or recording yourself to observe your body language and gestures. For instance, if you're giving a motivational speech, practice your gestures and expressions to convey enthusiasm and confidence.

8. Consider nonverbal communication

Your body language, tone of voice, and gestures should align with your message . If you're delivering a speech on leadership, maintain strong eye contact to convey authority and connection with your audience. A steady pace and varied tone can also enhance your speech's impact.

9. Engage your audience

Engaging your audience keeps them interested and attentive. Encourage interaction by asking thought-provoking questions or sharing relatable anecdotes. If you're giving a speech on teamwork, ask the audience to recall a time when teamwork led to a successful outcome, fostering engagement and connection.

10. Prepare for Q&A

Anticipate potential questions or objections your audience might have and prepare concise, well-informed responses. If you're delivering a speech on a controversial topic, such as healthcare reform, be ready to address common concerns, like the impact on healthcare costs or access to services, during the Q&A session.

By following these steps and incorporating examples that align with your specific speech topic and purpose, you can craft and deliver a compelling and impactful speech that resonates with your audience.

Tools for writing a great speech

There are several helpful tools available for speechwriting, both technological and communication-related. Here are a few examples:

• Word processing software: Tools like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or other word processors provide a user-friendly environment for writing and editing speeches. They offer features like spell-checking, grammar correction, formatting options, and easy revision tracking.
• Presentation software: Software such as Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides is useful when creating visual aids to accompany your speech. These tools allow you to create engaging slideshows with text, images, charts, and videos to enhance your presentation.
• Speechwriting Templates: Online platforms or software offer pre-designed templates specifically for speechwriting. These templates provide guidance on structuring your speech and may include prompts for different sections like introductions, main points, and conclusions.
• Rhetorical devices and figures of speech: Rhetorical tools such as metaphors, similes, alliteration, and parallelism can add impact and persuasion to your speech. Resources like books, websites, or academic papers detailing various rhetorical devices can help you incorporate them effectively.
• Speechwriting apps: Mobile apps designed specifically for speechwriting can be helpful in organizing your thoughts, creating outlines, and composing a speech. These apps often provide features like voice recording, note-taking, and virtual prompts to keep you on track.
• Grammar and style checkers: Online tools or plugins like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor help improve the clarity and readability of your speech by checking for grammar, spelling, and style errors. They provide suggestions for sentence structure, word choice, and overall tone.
• Thesaurus and dictionary: Online or offline resources such as thesauruses and dictionaries help expand your vocabulary and find alternative words or phrases to express your ideas more effectively. They can also clarify meanings or provide context for unfamiliar terms.
• Online speechwriting communities: Joining online forums or communities focused on speechwriting can be beneficial for getting feedback, sharing ideas, and learning from experienced speechwriters. It's an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and improve your public speaking skills through collaboration.

Remember, while these tools can assist in the speechwriting process, it's essential to use them thoughtfully and adapt them to your specific needs and style. The most important aspect of speechwriting remains the creativity, authenticity, and connection with your audience that you bring to your speech.

5 tips for writing a speech

Behind every great speech is an excellent idea and a speaker who refined it. But a successful speech is about more than the initial words on the page, and there are a few more things you can do to help it land.

Here are five more tips for writing and practicing your speech:

1. Structure first, write second

If you start the writing process before organizing your thoughts, you may have to re-order, cut, and scrap the sentences you worked hard on. Save yourself some time by using a speech structure, like the one above, to order your talking points first. This can also help you identify unclear points or moments that disrupt your flow.

2. Do your homework

Data strengthens your argument with a scientific edge. Research your topic with an eye for attention-grabbing statistics, or look for findings you can use to support each point. If you’re pitching a product or service, pull information from company metrics that demonstrate past or potential successes. 

Audience members will likely have questions, so learn all talking points inside and out. If you tell investors that your product will provide 12% returns, for example, come prepared with projections that support that statement.

3. Sound like yourself

Memorable speakers have distinct voices. Think of Martin Luther King Jr’s urgent, inspiring timbre or Oprah’s empathetic, personal tone . Establish your voice — one that aligns with your personality and values — and stick with it. If you’re a motivational speaker, keep your tone upbeat to inspire your audience . If you’re the CEO of a startup, try sounding assured but approachable. 

4. Practice

As you practice a speech, you become more confident , gain a better handle on the material, and learn the outline so well that unexpected questions are less likely to trip you up. Practice in front of a colleague or friend for honest feedback about what you could change, and speak in front of the mirror to tweak your nonverbal communication and body language .

5. Remember to breathe

When you’re stressed, you breathe more rapidly . It can be challenging to talk normally when you can’t regulate your breath. Before your presentation, try some mindful breathing exercises so that when the day comes, you already have strategies that will calm you down and remain present . This can also help you control your voice and avoid speaking too quickly.

How to ghostwrite a great speech for someone else

Ghostwriting a speech requires a unique set of skills, as you're essentially writing a piece that will be delivered by someone else. Here are some tips on how to effectively ghostwrite a speech:

• Understand the speaker's voice and style : Begin by thoroughly understanding the speaker's personality, speaking style, and preferences. This includes their tone, humor, and any personal anecdotes they may want to include.
• Interview the speaker : Have a detailed conversation with the speaker to gather information about their speech's purpose, target audience, key messages, and any specific points they want to emphasize. Ask for personal stories or examples they may want to include.
• Research thoroughly : Research the topic to ensure you have a strong foundation of knowledge. This helps you craft a well-informed and credible speech.
• Create an outline : Develop a clear outline that includes the introduction, main points, supporting evidence, and a conclusion. Share this outline with the speaker for their input and approval.
• Write in the speaker's voice : While crafting the speech, maintain the speaker's voice and style. Use language and phrasing that feel natural to them. If they have a particular way of expressing ideas, incorporate that into the speech.
• Craft a captivating opening : Begin the speech with a compelling opening that grabs the audience's attention. This could be a relevant quote, an interesting fact, a personal anecdote, or a thought-provoking question.
• Organize content logically : Ensure the speech flows logically, with each point building on the previous one. Use transitions to guide the audience from one idea to the next smoothly.
• Incorporate engaging stories and examples : Include anecdotes, stories, and real-life examples that illustrate key points and make the speech relatable and memorable.
• Edit and revise : Edit the speech carefully for clarity, grammar, and coherence. Ensure the speech is the right length and aligns with the speaker's time constraints.
• Seek feedback : Share drafts of the speech with the speaker for their feedback and revisions. They may have specific changes or additions they'd like to make.
• Practice delivery : If possible, work with the speaker on their delivery. Practice the speech together, allowing the speaker to become familiar with the content and your writing style.
• Maintain confidentiality : As a ghostwriter, it's essential to respect the confidentiality and anonymity of the work. Do not disclose that you wrote the speech unless you have the speaker's permission to do so.
• Be flexible : Be open to making changes and revisions as per the speaker's preferences. Your goal is to make them look good and effectively convey their message.
• Meet deadlines : Stick to agreed-upon deadlines for drafts and revisions. Punctuality and reliability are essential in ghostwriting.
• Provide support : Support the speaker during their preparation and rehearsal process. This can include helping with cue cards, speech notes, or any other materials they need.

Remember that successful ghostwriting is about capturing the essence of the speaker while delivering a well-structured and engaging speech. Collaboration, communication, and adaptability are key to achieving this.

Give your best speech yet

Learn how to make a speech that’ll hold an audience’s attention by structuring your thoughts and practicing frequently. Put the effort into writing and preparing your content, and aim to improve your breathing, eye contact , and body language as you practice. The more you work on your speech, the more confident you’ll become.

The energy you invest in writing an effective speech will help your audience remember and connect to every concept. Remember: some life-changing philosophies have come from good speeches, so give your words a chance to resonate with others. You might even change their thinking.

Elevate your communication skills

Unlock the power of clear and persuasive communication. Our coaches can guide you to build strong relationships and succeed in both personal and professional life.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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How to Start a Speech: 7 Tips and Examples for a Captivating Opening

By Status.net Editorial Team on December 12, 2023 — 10 minutes to read

1. Choosing the Right Opening Line

Finding the perfect opening line for your speech is important in grabbing your audience’s attention. A strong opening line sets the stage for the points you want to make and helps you establish a connection with your listeners.

1. Start with a question

Engage your audience from the very beginning by asking them a thought-provoking question related to your topic. This approach encourages them to think, and it can create a sense of anticipation about what’s coming next.

• “Have you ever wondered how much time we spend on our phones every day?”

2. Share a personal story

A relatable personal story can create an emotional connection with your audience. Make sure your story is short, relevant to your speech, and ends with a clear point.

• “When I was a child, my grandmother used to tell me that every kind deed we do plants a seed of goodness in the world. It was this philosophy that inspired me to start volunteering.”

3. Use a quote or a statistic

Incorporate a powerful quote or an intriguing statistic at the outset of your speech to engage your audience and provide context for your topic.

• “As the great Maya Angelou once said, ‘People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.'”

4. Make them laugh

Injecting a little humor into your opening line puts everyone at ease and makes your speech more memorable. Just make sure your joke is relevant and doesn’t offend your audience.

• “They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away, but if the doctor is cute, forget the fruit!”

5. Paint a mental picture

Draw your audience in by describing a vivid scene or painting an illustration in their minds. This creates an immersive experience that makes it easier for your audience to follow your speech.

• “Picture this: you’re walking down the beach, and you look out on the horizon. The sun is setting, and the sky is a breathtaking canvas of reds, oranges, and pinks.”

2. Using a Personal Story

Sharing a personal story can be a highly effective way to engage your audience from the very beginning of your speech. When you open your talk with a powerful, relatable story, it helps create an emotional connection with your listeners, making them more invested in what you have to say.

Think about an experience from your life that is relevant to the topic of your speech. Your story doesn’t have to be grand or dramatic, but it should be clear and vivid. Include enough detail to paint a picture in your audience’s minds, but keep it concise and on point.

The key to successfully using a personal story is to make it relatable. Choose a situation that your audience can empathize with or easily understand. For example, if you’re giving a speech about overcoming adversity, you could talk about a time where you faced a seemingly insurmountable challenge and overcame it.

Make sure to connect your story to the main point or theme of your speech. After sharing your experience, explain how it relates to the topic at hand, and let your audience see the relevance to their own lives. This will make your speech more impactful and show your listeners why your personal story holds meaning.

3. Making a Shocking Statement

Starting your speech with a shocking statement can instantly grab your audience’s attention. This technique works especially well when your speech topic relates to a hot-button issue or a controversial subject. Just make sure that the statement is relevant and true, as false claims may damage your credibility.

For example, “Believe it or not, 90% of startups fail during their first five years in the market.” This statement might surprise your listeners and make them more receptive to your ideas on how to avoid pitfalls and foster a successful business.

So next time you’re crafting a speech, consider opening with a powerful shocking statement. It could be just the thing to get your audience sitting up and paying full attention. (Try to keep your shocking statement relevant to your speech topic and factual to enhance your credibility.)

4. Using Humor

Humor can be an excellent way to break the ice and grab your audience’s attention. Opening your speech with a funny story or a joke can make a memorable first impression. Just be sure to keep it relevant to your topic and audience.

A good joke can set a light-hearted tone, lead into the importance of effective time management, and get your audience engaged from the start.

When using humor in your speech, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Be relatable: Choose a story or joke that your audience can easily relate to. It will be more engaging and connect your listeners to your message.
• Keep it appropriate: Make sure the humor fits the occasion and audience. Stay away from controversial topics and avoid offending any particular group.
• Practice your delivery: Timing and delivery are essential when telling a joke. Practice saying it out loud and adjust your pacing and tone of voice to ensure your audience gets the joke.
• Go with the flow: If your joke flops or doesn’t get the reaction you were hoping for, don’t panic or apologize. Simply move on to the next part of your speech smoothly, and don’t let it shake your confidence.
• Don’t overdo it: While humor can be useful in capturing your audience’s attention, remember that you’re not a stand-up comedian. Use it sparingly and focus on getting your message across clearly and effectively.

5. Incorporating a Quote

When you want to start your speech with a powerful quote, ensure that the quote is relevant to your topic. Choose a quote from a credible source, such as a famous historical figure, a well-known author, or a respected expert in your field. This will not only grab your audience’s attention but also establish your speech’s credibility.

For example, if you’re giving a speech about resilience, you might use this quote by Nelson Mandela: “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”

Once you’ve found the perfect quote, integrate it smoothly into your speech’s introduction. You can briefly introduce the source of the quote, providing context for why their words are significant. For example:

Nelson Mandela, an inspirational leader known for his perseverance, once said: “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”

When you’re incorporating a quote in your speech, practice your delivery to ensure it has the intended impact. Focus on your tone, pace, and pronunciation. By doing so, you can convey the quote’s meaning effectively and connect with your audience emotionally.

Connect the quote to your main points by briefly explaining how it relates to the subject matter of your speech. By creating a natural transition from the quote to your topic, you can maintain your audience’s interest and set the stage for a compelling speech.

In our resilience example, this could look like:

“This quote by Mandela beautifully illustrates the power of resilience. Today, I want to share with you some stories of remarkable individuals who, like Mandela, overcame obstacles and rose every time they fell. Through their experiences, we might learn how to cultivate our own resilience and make the most of life’s challenges.”

6. Starting with a Question

Opening your speech with a question can be a great way to engage your audience from the start. This strategy encourages your listeners to think and become active participants in your presentation. Your opening question should be related to your core message, sparking their curiosity, and setting the stage for the following content. Here are a few examples:

• For a motivational speech : “Have you ever wondered what you would do if you couldn’t fail?”
• For a business presentation : “What’s the biggest challenge your team faces daily, and how can we overcome it?”
• For an educational talk : “How does the way we use technology today impact the future of our society?”

When choosing the right starting question, consider your audience. You want to ask something that is relevant to their experiences and interests. The question should be interesting enough to draw their attention and resonate with their emotions. For instance, if you’re presenting to a group of entrepreneurs, gear your question towards entrepreneurship, and so on.

To boost your question’s impact, consider using rhetorical questions. These don’t require a verbal response, but get your audience thinking about their experiences or opinions. Here’s an example:

• For an environmental speech : “What kind of world do we want to leave for our children?”

After posing your question, take a moment to let it sink in, and gauge the audience’s reaction. You can also use a brief pause to give the listeners time to think about their answers before moving on with your speech.

7. Acknowledging the Occasion

When starting a speech, you can acknowledge the occasion that brought everyone together. This helps create a connection with your audience and sets the stage for the rest of your speech. Make sure to mention the event name, its purpose, and any relevant individuals or groups you would like to thank for organizing it. For example:

“Hello everyone, and welcome to the 10th annual Charity Gala Dinner. I’m truly grateful to the fundraising committee for inviting me to speak tonight.”

After addressing the event itself, include a brief personal touch to show your connection with the topic or the audience. This helps the audience relate to you and gain interest in what you have to say. Here’s an example:

“As a long-time supporter of this cause, I am honored to share my thoughts on how we can continue making a difference in our community.”

Next, give a brief overview of your speech so the audience knows what to expect. This sets the context and helps them follow your points. You could say something like:

“Tonight, I’ll be sharing my experiences volunteering at the local food bank and discussing the impact of your generous donations.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective opening lines for speeches.

A powerful opening line will grab your audience’s attention and set the stage for the rest of your speech. Some effective opening lines include:

• Start with a bold statement: “The world needs your creativity now more than ever.”
• Share a surprising fact: “Did you know that the average person spends (…) years of their life at work?”
• Pose a thought-provoking question: “What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?”
• Tell a short, engaging story: “When I was 10 years old, I discovered my passion for baking in my grandmother’s kitchen.”

Can you provide examples of engaging introductions for speeches?

• Use humor: “As a kid, I believed that 7 pm bedtime was a form of torture. Now, as an adult, I find myself dreaming of 7 pm bedtime.”
• Share a personal experience: “On a trip to Italy, I found myself lost in the winding streets of a small village. It was there, amidst my confusion, that I stumbled upon the best gelato I’d ever tasted.”
• Use an analogy: “Starting a new business is like taking a journey into the unknown. There will be challenges to overcome, and you’ll need resilience, determination, and a strong compass.”

Which speech styles can make a powerful impact on the audience?

Different speech styles will resonate with different audiences. Some styles to consider include:

• Inspirational: Motivate your audience to take action or overcome challenges.
• Storytelling: Share personal experiences or anecdotes to illustrate your points and keep listeners engaged.
• Educational: Provide useful information and insights to help your audience learn or grow.
• Persuasive: Present a compelling argument to convince your audience to adopt a particular perspective or take specific action.

How do successful speakers establish a connection with their listeners?

Establishing a connection with your listeners is key to delivering an impactful speech. Some ways to connect with your audience include:

• Show empathy: Demonstrating understanding and concern for your audience’s feelings and experiences will generate a sense of trust and connection.
• Be relatable: Share personal stories or examples that allow your audience to see themselves in your experiences, thus making your speech more relatable.
• Keep it genuine: Avoid overrehearsing or coming across as scripted. Instead, strive for authenticity and flexibility in your delivery.
• Encourage participation: Engaging your audience through questions, activities, or conversation can help build rapport and make them feel more involved.

What are some techniques for maintaining a friendly and professional tone in speeches?

To maintain a friendly and professional tone in your speeches, consider these tips:

• Balance humor and seriousness: Use humor to lighten the mood and engage your audience, but make sure to also cover the serious points in your speech.
• Speak naturally: Use your everyday vocabulary and avoid jargon or overly formal language when possible.
• Show respect: Acknowledge differing opinions and experiences, and treat your audience with courtesy and fairness.
• Provide useful information: Offer valuable insights and solutions to your audience’s concerns, ensuring they leave your speech feeling more informed and empowered.
• Emotional Intelligence (EQ) in Leadership [Examples, Tips]
• Effective Nonverbal Communication in the Workplace (Examples)
• Empathy: Definition, Types, and Tips for Effective Practice
• How to Improve Key Communication Skills
• Examples of Empathy (and 38 Empathy Statements)
• What is Self Compassion? (Exercises, Methods, Examples)

How to Give a Persuasive Presentation [+ Examples]

Published: December 29, 2020

A presentation aimed at persuading an audience to take a specific action can be the most difficult type to deliver, even if you’re not shy of public speaking.

Creating a presentation that effectively achieves your objective requires time, lots of practice, and most importantly, a focused message.

With the right approach, you can create a presentation that leaves a skeptical audience enthusiastic to get on board with your project.

In this post, we'll cover the basics of building a persuasive presentation. Let's dive in.

What is a persuasive presentation?

In its most basic form, a persuasive presentation features a speaker who tries to influence an audience to accept certain positions and engage in actions in support of them. A good persuasive presentation uses a mixture of facts, logic, and empathy to help an audience see an issue from a perspective they previously discounted or hadn’t considered.

How to Plan a Persuasive Presentation

Want to make a persuasive presentation that connects with your audience? Follow these steps to win friends and influence people within your audience.

1. Decide on a single ask.

The key to convincing your audience is to first identify the singular point you want to make. A good persuasive presentation will focus on one specific and easy-to-understand proposition. Even if that point is part of a broader initiative, it ideally needs to be presented as something your audience can say "yes" or "no" to easily.

A message that isn’t well-defined or which covers too much can cause the audience to lose interest or reject it outright. A more focused topic can also help your delivery sound more confident, which (for better or worse) is an important factor in convincing people.

2. Focus on fewer (but more relevant ) facts.

Remember: You are (in the vast majority of cases) not the target audience for your presentation. To make your presentation a success, you’ll need to know who your audience is so you can shape your message to resonate with them.

When crafting your messaging, put yourself in your audience's headspace and attempt to deeply understand their position, needs, and concerns. Focus on arguments and facts that speak specifically to your audience's unique position.

As we wrote in our post on How to Present a Compelling Argument When You're Not Naturally Persuasive , "just because a fact technically lends support to your claim doesn't mean it will sway your audience. The best evidence needs to not only support your claim but also have a connection to your audience."

What are the target audience's pain points that you can use to make a connection between their needs and your goals? Focus on those aspects, and cut any excess information. Fewer relevant facts are always more impactful than an abundance of unfocused pieces of evidence.

3. Build a narrative around your evidence.

If you want to persuade someone of something, it’s not enough to win their brain -- you need their heart in it, too. Try to make an emotional connection with your audience throughout your presentation to better sell them on the facts you’re presenting. Your audience is human, after all, so some emotional tug will go a long way to shaking up how they view the issue you’re talking about. A little bit of emotion could be just what your audience needs to make your facts “click.”

The easiest way to incorporate an emotional pull into your presentation is through the use of narrative elements. As we wrote in our guide to crafting pitch decks , "When our brains are given a story instead of a list of information, things change -- big time. Stories engage more parts of our brains, including our sensory cortex, which is responsible for processing visual, auditory, and tactile stimuli. If you want to keep people engaged during a presentation, tell them a story."

4. Confidence matters.

Practice makes perfect (it's a cliche because it's true, sorry!), and this is especially true for presentation delivery. Rehearse your presentation several times before you give it to your audience so you can develop a natural flow and move from each section without stopping.

Remember, you're not giving a speech here, so you don't want your delivery to come across like you're reading fully off of cue cards. Use tools like notes and cue cards as ways to keep you on track, not as scripts.

Finally, if you can, try to practice your presentation in front of another human. Getting a trusted co-worker to give you feedback in advance can help strengthen your delivery and identify areas you might need to change or bulk up.

5. Prepare for common objections.

The last thing you want to say when someone in your audience expresses a concern or an outright objection during your presentation's question section is “umm, let me get back to you on that.”

Carefully research the subject of your presentation to make the best case possible for it -- but also prepare in advance for common objections or questions you know your stakeholders are going to ask. The stronger your command of the facts -- and the more prepared you are to proactively address concerns -- the more convincing your presentation will be. When you appear confident fielding any rebuttals during a question and answer session after your presentation, it can go a long way towards making your case seem more convincing.

Persuasive Presentation Outline

Like any writing project, you’ll want to create an outline for your presentation, which can act as both a prompt and a framework. With an outline, you’ll have an easier time organizing your thoughts and creating the actual content you will present. While you can adjust the outline to your needs, your presentation will most likely follow this basic framework.

I. Introduction

Every persuasive presentation needs an introduction that gets the listener’s attention, identifies a problem, and relates it to them.

• The Hook: Just like a catchy song, your presentation needs a good hook to draw the listener in. Think of an unusual fact, anecdote, or framing that can grab the listener’s attention. Choose something that also establishes your credibility on the issue.
• The Tie: Tie your hook back to your audience to garner buy-in from your audience, as this issue impacts them personally.
• The Thesis: This is where you state the position to which you are trying to persuade your audience and forms the focal point for your presentation.

II. The Body

The body forms the bulk of your presentation and can be roughly divided into two parts. In the first half, you will build your case, and in the second you will address potential rebuttals.

• Your Case: This is where you will present supporting points for your argument and the evidence you’ve gathered through research. This will likely have several different subsections in which you present the relevant evidence for each supporting point.
• Rebuttals: Consider potential rebuttals to your case and address them individually with supporting evidence for your counterarguments.
• Benefits: Outline the benefits of the audience adopting your position. Use smooth, conversational transitions to get to these.
• Drawbacks: Outline what drawbacks of the audience rejecting your position. Be sure to remain conversational and avoid alarmism.

III. Conclusion

In your conclusion, you will wrap up your argument, summarize your key points, and relate them back to the decisions your audience makes.

• Transition: Write a transition that emphasizes the key point you are trying to make.
• Summary: Summarize your arguments, their benefits, and the key pieces of evidence supporting your position.
• Tie-back: Tie back your summary to the actions of your audience and how their decisions will impact the subject of your presentation.
• Final word: Try to end on a last emotional thought that can inspire your audience to adopt your position and act in support of it.

IV. Citations

Include a section at the end of your presentation with citations for your sources. This will make independent fact-checking easier for your audience and will make your overall presentation more persuasive.

Persuasive Presentation Examples

Check out some of these examples of persuasive presentations to get inspiration for your own. Seeing how someone else made their presentation could help you create one that strikes home with your audience. While the structure of your presentation is entirely up to you, here are some outlines that are typically used for different subjects.

Introducing a Concept

One common type of persuasive presentation is one that introduces a new concept to an audience and tries to get them to accept it. This presentation introduces audience members to the dangers of secondhand smoke and encourages them to take steps to avoid it. Persuasive presentations can also be a good format to introduce marco issues, such as this presentation on the benefits of renewable energy .

Changing Personal Habits

Want to change the personal habits of your audience? Check out this presentation on how to adopt healthy eating habits . Or this presentation which encourages the audience to get more exercise in their daily lives.

Making a Commitment to an Action

Is your goal to get your audience to commit to a specific action? This presentation encouraging audience memes to become organ donors could provide inspiration. Trying to make a big sale? Check out this presentation outline that can encourage someone to buy a home .

Remember: You Can Do This

Anyone can craft a persuasive presentation once they know the basic framework for creating one. Once you get the process down, you’ll be in a better position to bring in sales, attract donors or funding, and even advance your career. The skills you learn can also benefit you in other areas of your personal and professional life as you know how to make a case and influence people toward it.

Don't forget to share this post!

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The Presentation

Most presentations are divided into 3 main parts (+ questions):

As a general rule in communication, repetition is valuable. In presentations, there is a golden rule about repetition:

• Say what you are going to say...
• then say what you have just said.

In other words, use the three parts of your presentation to reinforce your message. In the introduction, you tell your audience what your message is going to be. In the body, you tell your audience your real message. In the conclusion, you summarize what your message was.

We will now consider each of these parts in more detail.

Introduction

The introduction is a very important - perhaps the most important - part of your presentation. This is the first impression that your audience have of you. You should concentrate on getting your introduction right. You should use the introduction to:

• welcome your audience
• introduce your subject
• outline the structure of your presentation
• give instructions about questions

The following table shows examples of language for each of these functions. You may need to modify the language as appropriate.

The body is the 'real' presentation. If the introduction was well prepared and delivered, you will now be 'in control'. You will be relaxed and confident.

The body should be well structured, divided up logically, with plenty of carefully spaced visuals.

Remember these key points while delivering the body of your presentation:

• do not hurry
• be enthusiastic
• give time on visuals
• maintain eye contact
• modulate your voice
• look friendly
• keep to your structure
• use your notes
• signpost throughout
• remain polite when dealing with difficult questions

Use the conclusion to:

• (Give recommendations if appropriate)
• Thank your audience
• Invite questions

Questions are a good opportunity for you to interact with your audience. It may be helpful for you to try to predict what questions will be asked so that you can prepare your response in advance. You may wish to accept questions at any time during your presentation, or to keep a time for questions after your presentation. Normally, it's your decision, and you should make it clear during the introduction. Be polite with all questioners, even if they ask difficult questions. They are showing interest in what you have to say and they deserve attention. Sometimes you can reformulate a question. Or answer the question with another question. Or even ask for comment from the rest of the audience.

9 Killer Speech Openers to Start a Talk or Presentation.​

Danny Riley 8 min read

What you’ll learn:

• The importance of a “killer” speech opening.
• 9 powerful speech openers and how to use them.
• Examples from great speakers you can learn from.

Great speech openers hook your audience.

“ Well begun is half done” – Mary Poppins.

A killer speech opener will make the difference between a presentation that makes you soar or your audience snore .

I’ve researched the whole web to find nine killer speech openers to make your audience lean in and listen rather than tune out and daydream.

You’ll see how masters of the craft have used them, and how you can too.

Number seven takes hutzpah to pull off. Ready for the whole list of killer speech openers?

The Shock Opener

One of the best ways to open your speech with a buzz is to startle or shock them.

You can shock an audience in many ways, but they all rest on the major senses of VAKS:

• Kinesthetic (touch) 

We don’t want your audience tasting your talk, but it should leave a good taste in their mouths.

Changing Minds suggests asking if the audience is awake after appearing from a flashbang and a cloud of smoke, and this might work for you if you’re a magician or playing some kind of character for your speech like a genie.

Suppose you aren’t going for the magic angle. 

In that case, you can shock them on a psychological level instead, as Conor Neill recommends, and tell your audience a surprising fact or statistic that makes them question their thinking or beliefs.

“Did you know that half the water on earth is older than the sun?”

Questions like these will shake an audience awake and turn on their critical thinking nervous-system.

Don’t take my word for it; you can see an incredible demonstration of the shock opener in Mohammed Qahtani’s speech, The Power of Words .

Qahtani opens by taking out a cigarette and placing it into his mouth before trying to light it. The audience is so shocked that they gasp and tell him to stop.

Remember, if your audience is shocked, they are listening.

Your audience doesn’t always have to be jolted to attention with a shock opener, though you can use a more subtle approach to grab their focus. 

Ready to speak with confidence ? Explore our training options...

The story opener.

You can set the tone of your speech instantly with a story .

In Hollywood, filmmakers and directors use an ‘establishing shot’ to set the tone and theme of the entire film.

When creating your speech, think of a short story that sums up your talk.

Maybe you tell half the story to begin with, and then the other half at the end. 

The important thing is your tale must be relatable . If your audience can’t imagine themselves in the story, they won’t be engaged.

We all experience very similar things in life: 

• We all went to school and had a teacher we loved
• We all have parents who loved us or made mistakes in our upbringing
• We all had a first crush.

We are all cut from the same cloth, so it’s good to be reminded that others are going through what we face or think as we do.

Bryan Stevenson does a stellar job of recounting his mischievous grandmother in his TED talk, We need to talk about an injustice .

The best thing is, you can combine a story-opener with any other speech opener in this list.

It’s truly versatile.

One of my favourite speech openers is next, though.

The Intrigue Opener

I love this speech opener.

What better way to hook your audience than to intrigue them with mystery or a juicy secret?

Take a look at Daniel Pink’s TED Talk The puzzle of motivation . After he begins, Pink, looking like a guilty man sent to the gallows tells his audience:

“I need to confess something, at the outset here. A little over 20 years ago, I did something I regret. Something I’m not particularly proud of”.

Wow. How intriguing, right?

You have to admit; you want to know what he’s about to confess.

Choose every sentence, every word, and every mark of punctuation to increase the tantalisation temperature.

Whether it’s a secret or confession, the Intrigue Opener piques just enough curiosity in your audience to keep them from checking Whatsapp.

As humans, we need closure. 

We do not like open loops. 

That’s why it is both enthralling and aggravating when someone plays on our need to be sure.

Just as we cannot stand an open loop, we are instantly engaged when someone gives us a puzzle to solve.

You’ll notice the best speeches, books, tv shows, and films do not spoon feed you all of the information.

I’ve always liked the way Malcolm Gladwell writes his non-fiction books because they contain puzzles that you solve as a reader.

This puzzle needs to be related to the speech or presentation you’re delivering, of course. It cannot be a random puzzle and will ideally be impossible or extremely difficult to solve at first.

After the speech begins and the puzzle is revealed, you should slowly drop hints on how to solve the mystery.

Up next, speech openers that use a physical object to create curiosity in the audience’s mind.

The Prop Opener

One of the most potent ways you will captivate your audience is to use a powerful prop in your opening address.

What better way to capture an audience’s imagination than to show them a mysterious or beautiful object?

If you’ve never seen the Prop Opener done well, then take a look at one of the greatest speeches of all time:

Dananjaya Hettiarachchi’s, See Something .

Danajaya enters with a simple rose in his breast pocket, takes it out, gazes at it nostalgically, smells it and then begins to speak.

This same prop appears again right at the end of his speech to end his talk with a flourish.

There are many different props you can use.

JJ Abrams used a Mystery Box to absorb the audience’s attention and used the box as a metaphor for his entire career.

If you think the prop opener is just for TED Talks and Toastmasters Final Speeches, remember that most company product launch centre around one or more props.

Steve Jobs revealed his new products in ever-innovative ways.

Still, while the last two speeches I’ve mentioned opened with physical items, most of Jobs’s presentations built intrigue through the sight of the product.

So remember, you can use an object, or tease your audience with the absence of a prop, but make that prop integral to your talk.

You don’t always have to use a prop, of course. 

A more minimalist approach to opening your speech uses the best audience reaction a speaker can receive: laughter.

The Funny Opener

Using laughter to win over your audience is the golden ticket to immediate rapport with your audience.

Jack Schafer, PhD at Psychology Today, said that People Will Like You If You Make Them Laugh , which seems obvious, but at least you know we have scientists on the case. 

He also mentions that constructing humour requires and projects a high level of intelligence .

Of course, laughter is subjective, but it is also infectious, and if you get enough members of your audience to titter, it will spread across the whole group.

If you want to see just how quickly you can win an audience over with humour, take a look at Ken Robinson’s subtle but delightful ability to raise a chuckle in his speech Do Schools Kill Creativity? 

Ken’s ability to speak conversationally to an audience of thousands is genuinely remarkable.

If you break down his humour, it is easy to see how you could include similar content in your presentations. 

Whether you can pull it off as well as Ken is another story.

Not everyone feels like they can be a comedian, though; I get that. 

Well, that’s alright because there are other ways to open your talk that play on other strong emotions.

You can inspire your audience too.

The Inspirational Opener

One of my favourite ways to help beginner speakers to open their presentation is with a quote.

A quote acts like a story in that it sets the tone and theme of your speech, but it takes much less effort and even less skill.

An effective quote is usually only one line long and supported by the credibility of the original author who uttered those words.

Watch the way Clint Smith opens his TED Talk  The Danger of Silence .

Using Martin Luther King’s voice to start his speech gives Clint what psychologists call the transference effect .

Just by citing someone else, especially someone admired and famous, you redirect the emotions an audience have towards that person onto yourself.

One caveat to using quotes, though:

Fact check them . I cringe whenever I see someone incorrectly quoting someone.

Have you ever heard the quote by Albert Einstein:

“Insanity is doing the same thing over and over, and expecting different results”?

A great quote, isn’t it?

But Albert Einstein never said those words .

A quick check on Reuters will help you add more credibility to your inspirational opener.

Finally, try to use a quote few people have ever heard. Inspiring words have been filling the archives of history for millennia, so seek out something that has been left dusty on the shelf rather than the same recycled iterations.

Next, let’s look at a type of bold speech opener that take real hutzpah to land well.

The Perspective Shift Opener

A powerful speech opener that will take confidence is the perspective shift opener.

This opener will lead the audience in one direction before changing direction and setting a new pace for the speech.

Cameron Russel does a fantastic job of controlling the frame in her TED Talk Looks aren’t everything. Believe me; I’m a model.

Russel takes to the stage dressed in a skimpy dress and begins to tell the audience about her career, but then does a rapid wardrobe change on stage in front of the entire audience. 

This change of dress sets a new tone, feel, and direction for the speech.

If you can change the audience’s perspective or frame of reality, you are in the driving seat.

One of the best things you can hope for as a speaker is moving hearts and changing minds. 

If you aren’t a confident speaker, start small.

Vanessa Van Edwards suggests never mentioning how nervous you are. 

It’s distracting and makes the audience pick up on all the subtle nervous energy and cues you give off. Control the frame instead and act cool and confident: they will buy into it.

Another great way to hold frame control over an audience is by using the power of silence .

The Silence Opener

Silence is a valuable commodity in today’s noisy and distracting digital world.

Creating silence at the beginning of your talk can profoundly affect your audience and their focus.

Did you ever have a teacher at school who used silence effectively?

When my English classmates were noisy, our teacher Mr Rylance would hold up his hand in silence. 

Slowly we would settle down and focus on his raised hand. 

A few would giggle, but that would peter out until we all wrapt in a hypnotic stillness.

If you want to see an example of how to use silence, then look at Neal Glitterman’s speech The Power of Silence .

You can see how much gravity silence can have , especially as a speech opener.

The final killer opener I want to introduce you to is the big promise opener.

The Big Promise Opener

I believe that all speeches and presentations should contain a big promise as it tells your audience why they should keep on listening.

Ideally, your big promise will be your speech title or phrase that pays which is a recurring foundational phrase you will use throughout your presentation.

A big promise is your way of making a deal with the audience : you listen to me, and you’ll get something in return.

Creating a big promise at the beginning of your speech is like adding a teaser trailer to the beginning of a TV show. It suggests a reason you should stick around.

When Arthur Benjamin introduces his talk Faster than a calculator by announcing:

 “I am a human calculator!”

You know that proof is on the way.

Remember the essential rule of the Big Promise Opener: make it big and keep your promise.

WOW your audience with these killer speech openers.

I hope you feel that I kept my promise of sharing nine killer speech openers to start a presentation.

Did you notice any other speech openers at the beginning of this article?

Don’t forget; these openers can be mixed and matched.

You can include a number of these speech openers in the same presentation to create more impact.

Let me know which of these killer openers was your favourite, and let me know if you have any more you’d like to share.

– Danny Riley

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Speech transitions: words and phrases to connect your ideas

June 28, 2018 - Gini Beqiri

When delivering presentations it’s important for your words and ideas to flow so your audience can understand how everything links together and why it’s all relevant.

This can be done using speech transitions because these act as signposts to the audience – signalling the relationship between points and ideas. This article explores how to use speech transitions in presentations.

What are speech transitions?

Speech transitions are words and phrases that allow you to smoothly move from one point to another so that your speech flows and your presentation is unified.

This makes it easier for the audience to understand your argument and without transitions the  audience may be confused  as to how one point relates to another and they may think you’re randomly jumping between points.

Types of transitions

Transitions can be one word, a phrase or a full sentence – there are many different types, here are a few:

Introduction

Introduce your topic:

• We will be looking at/identifying/investigating the effects of…
• Today I will be discussing…

Presentation outline

Inform the audience of the structure of your presentation:

• There are three key points I’ll be discussing…
• I want to begin by…, and then I’ll move on to…
• We’ll be covering… from two points of view…
• This presentation is divided into four parts…

Move from the introduction to the first point

Signify to the audience that you will now begin discussing the first main point:

• Now that you’re aware of the overview, let’s begin with…
• First, let’s begin with…
• I will first cover…
• My first point covers…
• To get started, let’s look at…

Shift between similar points

Move from one point to a similar one:

• In the same way…
• Likewise…
• Equally…
• This is similar to…
• Similarly…

Shift between disagreeing points

You may have to introduce conflicting ideas – bridging words and phrases are especially good for this:

• Conversely…
• Despite this…
• However…
• On the contrary…
• Now let’s consider…
• Even so…
• Nonetheless…
• We can’t ignore…
• On the other hand…

Transition to a significant issue

• Fundamentally…
• A major issue is…
• The crux of the matter…
• A significant concern is…

Referring to previous points

You may have to refer to something that you’ve already spoken about because, for example, there may have been a break or a fire alarm etc:

• Let’s return to…
• We briefly spoke about X earlier; let’s look at it in more depth now…
• Let’s revisit…
• Let’s go back to…
• Do you recall when I mentioned…

This can be also be useful to introduce a new point because adults learn better when new information builds on previously learned information.

Introducing an aside note

You may want to introduce a digression:

• I’d just like to mention…
• That reminds me…
• Incidentally…

Physical movement

You can  move your body  and your standing location when you transition to another point. The audience find it easier to follow your presentation and movement will increase their interest.

A common technique for incorporating movement into your presentation is to:

• Start your introduction by standing in the centre of the stage.
• For your first point you stand on the left side of the stage.
• You discuss your second point from the centre again.
• You stand on the right side of the stage for your third point.
• The conclusion occurs in the centre.

Emphasising importance

You need to ensure that the audience get the message by informing them why something is important:

• More importantly…
• This is essential…
• Primarily…
• Mainly…

Internal summaries

Internal summarising consists of summarising before moving on to the next point. You must inform the audience:

• What part of the presentation you covered – “In the first part of this speech we’ve covered…”
• What the key points were – “Precisely how…”
• How this links in with the overall presentation – “So that’s the context…”
• What you’re moving on to – “Now I’d like to move on to the second part of presentation which looks at…”

Cause and effect

You will have to transition to show relationships between factors:

• Therefore…
• Thus…
• Consequently…
• As a result…
• This is significant because…
• Hence…

Elaboration

• Also…
• Besides…
• What’s more…
• In addition/additionally…
• Moreover…
• Furthermore…

Point-by-point or steps of a process

• First/firstly/The first one is…
• Second/Secondly/The second one is…
• Third/Thirdly/The third one is…
• Last/Lastly/Finally/The fourth one is…

Introduce an example

• This is demonstrated by…
• For instance…
• Take the case of…
• For example…
• You may be asking whether this happens in X? The answer is yes…
• To show/illustrate/highlight this…
• Let me illustrate this by…

Transition to a demonstration

• Now that we’ve covered the theory, let’s practically apply it…
• I’ll conduct an experiment to show you this in action…
• Let me demonstrate this…
• I’ll now show you this…

Introducing a quotation

• X was a supporter of this thinking because he said…
• There is a lot of support for this, for example, X said…

Transition to another speaker

In a  group presentation  you must transition to other speakers:

• Briefly recap on what you covered in your section: “So that was a brief introduction on what health anxiety is and how it can affect somebody”
• Introduce the next speaker in the team and explain what they will discuss: “Now Gayle will talk about the prevalence of health anxiety.”
• Then end by looking at the next speaker, gesturing towards them and saying their name: “Gayle”.
• The next speaker should acknowledge this with a quick: “Thank you Simon.”

From these examples, you can see how the different sections of the presentations link which makes it easier for the audience to follow and remain engaged.

You can  tell personal stories  or share the experiences of others to introduce a point. Anecdotes are especially valuable for your introduction and between different sections of the presentation because they engage the audience. Ensure that you plan the stories thoroughly beforehand and that they are not too long.

Using questions

You can transition through your speech by asking questions and these questions also have the benefit of engaging your audience more. There are three different types of questions:

Direct questions require an answer: “What is the capital of Italy?” These are mentally stimulating for the audience.

Rhetorical questions  do not require answers, they are often used to emphasises an idea or point: “Is the Pope catholic?

Loaded questions contain an unjustified assumption made to prompt the audience into providing a particular answer which you can then correct to support your point: You may ask “Why does your wonderful company have such a low incidence of mental health problems?”.

The audience will generally answer that they’re happy. After receiving the answers you could then say “Actually it’s because people are still unwilling and too embarrassed to seek help for mental health issues at work etc.”

Transition to a visual aid

If you are going to introduce a visual aid you must prepare the audience with what they’re going to see, for example, you might be leading into a diagram that supports your statement. Also, before you  show the visual aid , explain why you’re going to show it, for example, “This graph is a significant piece of evidence supporting X”.

When the graphic is on display get the audience to focus on it:

• The table indicates…
• As you can see…
• I’d like to direct your attention to…

Explain what the visual is showing:

• You can see that there has been a reduction in…
• The diagram is comparing the…

Using a visual aid to transition

Visual aids can also be used as transitions and they have the benefit of being stimulating and breaking-up vocal transitions.

You might have a slide with just a picture on it to signify to the audience that you’re moving on to a new point – ensure that this image is relevant to the point. Many speakers like to use cartoons for this purpose but ensure its suitable for your audience.

Always summarise your key points first in the conclusion:

• Let’s recap on what we’ve spoken about today…
• Let me briefly summarise the main points…

And then conclude:

If you have a shorter speech you may choose to  end your presentation  with one statement:

• In short…
• To sum up…
• In a nutshell…
• To summarise…
• In conclusion…

However, using statements such as “To conclude” may cause the audience to stop listening. It’s better to say:

• I’d like to leave you with this…
• What you should take away from this is…
• Finally, I want to say…

Call to action

Requesting the audience to do something at the end of the presentation:

• You may be thinking how can I help in this matter? Well…
• My aim is to encourage you to go further and…
• What I’m requesting of you is…

Common mistakes

When transitions are used poorly you can annoy and confuse the audience. Avoid:

• Using transitions that are too short – transitions are a key part of ensuring the audience understands your presentation so spend sufficient time linking to your next idea.
• Too many tangents – any digressions should still be relevant to the topic and help the audience with their understanding, otherwise cut them out.
• Incompatible transitions – for example, if you’re about to introduce an example that supports your statement you wouldn’t introduce this by saying “but”. Use transitions that signify the relationship between points.
• Over-using the same transition because this is boring for the audience to hear repeatedly. Ensure that there is variety with your transitions, consider including visual transitions.
• Miscounting your transitions – for example, don’t say “first point”, “second point”, “next point” – refer to your points consistently.

Speech transitions are useful for unifying and connecting your presentation. The audience are more likely to remain engaged since they’ll be able to follow your points. But remember that it’s important to practice your transitions beforehand and not just the content of your arguments because you risk looking unprofessional and confusing the audience if the presentation does not flow smoothly.