How to Begin a Public Speech

Series Summary

People have been making speeches in front of groups since humankind has been able to communicate. Public speaking refers to giving speeches with the intention of informing audiences about certain topics or persuading listeners to succumb to various opinions. From U.S. presidents to members of the local Junior League, speakers utilize public speaking skills when addressing crowds. Though public speaking styles have changed over centuries, the basic elements remain the same. In learning to speak in public, we obtain relevant skills that enrich our ability to communicate clearly.

In this free how-to video series, our expert offers tips on public speaking, explaining the skills and training necessary to give a successful speech. He presents video clip lessons on how to begin a speech with a bang, how to speak in different settings, how to employ humor and storytelling in speeches, how to manage time effectively in a speech, and how to prepare to give a speech. Additionally, our expert informs us about the most important principles of public speaking.

Video Transcript

"Hello my name is Scott. I am name tag guy from hellomynameisscott.com, on behalf of Expert Village. We are here to learn about public speaking. In this episode, we are learning how to begin your speech with a bang. I will share three different essential elements for doing so.

#1 When you get on stage, smile for three seconds and shut up. Yup this shows poise, patience and the mark of a polished speaker plus it engages the audience right away.

#2 Hit the ground, running with a story, a quote, a number or a date. Trust me. It is a heck of a lot better to start a speech with something like 147 days ago versus good morning everybody.

#3 Within the first two minutes of your speech, you better make sure everybody is thinking “Oh! man, this is going to be a good speech!” This is what Hollywood calls the flavor scene. Now I want you to think about, Armageddon, you know with Bruce Willis and Billy Bob Thornton. First two minutes of the speech, they are at the NASA headquarters and he says, “Oh my God! The world is going to end in 36 hours, I know one man that can save us.” That is a flavor scene; it makes us think this is going to be good. Using these three keys you will be certain to begin your speech with a bang. "