Speech Techniques

You can use a variety of techniques when giving a speech.

There are several different speech techniques that orators use to deliver their message. The delivery method that they choose depends on the audience they are addressing and the subject of their speech. Different techniques are used for speeches in the workplace, for clients and students or to entertain and inform.

Persuasive

Although persuasive speech techniques are usually associated with marketing they can also be used as a method to deliver a political speech or an opinion. This speech technique is a mix of emotional appeal, logic and inclusiveness. The speaker must draw the audience in by understanding their basic desires and fears but must also present a solution or different point of view based on facts. Inclusive terms like "our" and "we" are used to make the speaker and audience part of the same ideological group.

Motivational

Motivational speeches are used to rally groups to action or collective agreement. The techniques that motivate an audience begin with the tone of the speaker's voice itself. A motivational speech is energetic and often accompanied by dramatic body language but the speaker must be careful to retain a balance with their enthusiasm and be cautious not to sound overzealous, as this might alienate the audience. Like a motivational speech, the speaker will also appeal to the hopes and dreams of the collective audience to prompt them to action.

Expository

The primary reason for giving an expository speech is to explain or inform. Lecturers in universities, a priest's sermon, scientists talking about new theories to colleagues or company executives talking about new products to a group of investors are all examples of expository speeches. In a situation that calls for an expository speech, the audience is often of a like mind or interest as the speaker so the persuasive or motivational techniques of speeches are not as critical.

Informal

You may have to give an informal speech at your next company meeting.

These are often the most difficult speeches to give because the speaker will be familiar with his audience, which is often a smaller group of peers or colleagues. These speeches can combine the other techniques of persuasion, motivational and exposition but their main purpose is to entertain. The speaker does this by adding a certain amount of humor and using more colloquial expressions. The speeches you might give during a casual business meeting or a toast after an entertaining dinner are examples of informal speeches.

References

• Speech Gems: Persuaders
• Speech Gems: Motivation
• Thinkquest: Expository Speech Lesson
• Thinkquest: Giving a Casual Speech