Thread by @RobbieCrab

The 5 best ways to open a speech.

Different audiences need different opens so here's a list to help.

-A Thread 🧵-

1. Personal story

You can always start with a personal story to create a connection with your audience.

Stories help speakers build credibility and likeability.

Or another way I say it...

Brag without bragging.

2. Imagine

Start by having your audience imagine a scene or an idea.

The key here is to create a rich and vibrant image in their head. Build out the scene with descriptive language and using active voice.

The word "imagine" helps the audience embrace the exercise.

3. Bold question

Have you ever heard a speaker ask a great question that you want the answer to?

Exactly. These types of questions spark the curiosity of the audience.

Curiosity captures them and leaves them asking for more so they stay engaged with your message.

4. Shocking statistic or fact

This needs to hit the audience where they think "there's no way" or "wow that's incredible".

There should be a visible reaction from your audience when this is delivered.

You can test this out like a comedian testing parts of their set.

5. High tension moment in a story

Yes, item 1 was a personal story but this is different.

This story isn't about you so you need to put the audience in a powerful and captivating moment.

Don't start with context. Hook them right away and then give the context after.

TLDR

1. Personal story
2. Imagine
3. Bold question
4. Shocking statistic or fact
5. High tension moment in a story

If you enjoyed this please RT so more can benefit.

Want to learn more and develop this skill further?

beondeck.com/performative-s…