How to Greet an Audience When Giving a Speech
Public speaking is quite intimidating for some people. It is important to grab the audience's attention right away and this is possible through the right type of greeting. First impressions are always important but particularly so in public speaking. Greeting your audience in the correct manner engages their attention and keeps them interested during your presentation.
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Instructions
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Walk confidently to the podium or other area where you will be making the speech. Even if you are extremely nervous, your body language shouldn't show it.
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Learn about your subject matter inside and out, particularly if there is a question and answer section at the end of your presentation. This gives you confidence throughout the presentation.
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Jot down important keywords, notes on index cards or paper and number them in the correct order. This allows you to organize them quickly if you accidentally drop them. Never read directly from a sheet of paper unless you are quoting a poem, an article or something else verbatim.
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Look directly at the audience when you reach the podium. Only refer to your notes when necessary.
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Research the type of audience. If you are talking to a bunch of school children, a group of single mom's or a room full of business people, it is important that you base your greeting and speech on the ages, sex, gender and cultural differences. Political affiliations and the occasion are other features to consider.
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Smile at the audience when you greet them and at other times during the speech. Don't expect them to smile back at you or be disappointed if they do not. People in an audience tend to feel anonymous, particularly if it is a large crowd. Gaze directly above the heads of audience members if you are too nervous to make eye contact; they won't know you aren't looking directly at them.
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Greet the audience by saying, "Good morning, ladies and gentlemen," or some other greeting that is appropriate for the situation. If it is a group of middle school children, you can say, "Hey gang," or some other type greeting that is age and subject appropriate.
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Introduce yourself to the audience by stating your name and your qualifications to talk to them about the subject matter. This step is not necessary if someone introduced you and gave your qualifications. If not, give a short synopsis; don't bore the audience with a lengthy spiel of why you are the perfect person to speak to them.
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Thank the person or group during your greeting for inviting you to speak.
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Acknowledge you are an amateur at public speaking or if you are nervous. This creates empathy from the audience. Tell a light joke or replay a funny story that pertains to the subject matter if you are at ease doing this type of comedy. If the joke fails to bring laughter, it may undermine your confidence.
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Introduce your topic and what your speech pertains to and then proceed to educate, inspire, persuade or motivate people with your speech.
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Tips & Warnings
Practice your speech in front of a mirror, family or friends to give you confidence before presenting your speech.
Ask a friend or a supportive co-worker where she is going to sit. During nerve-wracking moments, you can glance at her for an encouraging smile.
Avoid speaking in a monotone voice. Fluctuate your pitch to retain the audience's attention.
References
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