How to Write Introductions for Persuasive Speeches

Your introduction should grab the attention of the audience.

Some people are intimidated by writing a speech. The hardest part can be to figure out how to start. When you are writing a persuasive speech, you want your introduction to grab the attention of the audience. The introduction is the "first impression"; the audience will make up their minds about the level of interest they have in what you have to say in the first 10 seconds. You need to summarize what you are going to persuade them to do and how you plan to do it.

Instructions

1. Find out who your audience is, regarding demographics, ages and their thoughts on the subject at hand.

2. Start with an ice breaker, a bold statement, a question or even a joke.

3. State your purpose, and explain what you want from the audience. Make the audience understand that you believe this issue is important and you want them on your side.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure to keep your introduction in tune with the overall length of your speech. Don't have a two-minute introduction for a three-minute speech.

• Watch out for the one or more persons who will disagree on every angle.

• Depending on your topic, people might get angry.

References

• "The Art of Public Speaking", Stephen E. Lucas, 2003