Be a Success - Give a Great Speech

Key: Have fun and enjoy yourself

Subject Matter. Pick an interesting topic. Organize your thoughts in a logical progression. Give the audience something to think about. Include a "Wow" factor. Use creativity and original thinking. Put emphasis on the audience, not yourself.

Know the audience. Choose appropriate vocabulary and subject matter. Be relevant to your audience. Be alert to audience reaction and make adjustments as needed.

Length. Keep appropriate to the audience and subject. Don't speak longer than the time allotted. Use a watch or have someone signal you when time is about up.

Opening. Start with something to get the attention of your audience. This might be a question that you will then proceed to answer or a fact that is generally unknown or contrary to popular belief.

Delivery. Move - Don't grab the lectern. Use hand motions effectively. Don't read to the audience. Use vocal variety. Project enthusiasm, confidence, and energy. Look like your speech is something you enjoy and care deeply about.

Story. Tell a brief story that illustrates your point. Add humor if appropriate. [Keep length to maximum of 2 minutes.]

Audio-Visual Aids. With written slides use short bulleted points that can be easily and quickly read. Look at your audience, not the visual. When the visual is not in use, remove it from view. Don't require the audience to read too many slides.
Strong Close. Give your audience something to remember and think about. Summarize key points and call the audience to action, when appropriate.
Be well prepared. Rehearsal is key. Practice - Practice - Practice.
Post-speech. Make notes of your strong and weak points so you can improve your next speech. Note your progress with each succeeding speech.

Written by Ken Gutbrod, ATM-B, 25 Feb 2008