First impressions. How long does it take to make one? For the purpose of this discussion, it doesn’t matter. What DOES matter is that you’ll have a hard time changing a first impression once it’s been formed.

Your introduction is the audience’s first experience with you. Even when you are well acquainted with a group, the introduction separates you, for that period in time from the audience. An introduction acts as a transition.

Even author and lecturer, Mark Twain had a bad experience when being introduced. From that point forward, it is said that Twain did his own introductions. The introduction that precedes your presentation sets the framework for the audience’s impression of you.

Write your own introduction

Your introduction should not be someone reading details of your biography or a list of accomplishments from your resume. Your introduction can be customized to match each individual presentation. Although your speech topic may sometimes be the same, each event and audience is unique.

Next time you’re asked to speak, honor the event organizers by preparing a customized introduction with the following key elements. Remember though, keep it short. This is the introduction, not the presentation.

Speakers Qualifications

Even if they know you, the audience is asking, “Why this speaker?” Why were they chosen?

Your introduction should summarize pertinent information that relates to your topic of discussion and include your credentials on the topic. Expand on one or at most two important accomplishments within your career as it pertains to your presentation.

Select information that helps you relate to the audience. Show them you may have something in common right in the introduction (or in opening statements if doesn’t fit into introduction).

Why this subject?

State what you are talking about and why. Now that we know you’re an expert in your given field, give us a summary of what you’re actually going to talk about. If the audience doesn’t know what you’re talking about, why would they pay attention?

Session “lead-in” or session title

Give the title of your presentation or session near the end of your introduction, particularly if it’s catchy because people will remember it. I am still intrigued by the speaker who has the following catchy session title “How to Stay Cool while your Pants are on Fire!” Sounds like fun!

Speakers Full Name (Properly pronounced)

While this might seem obvious, many introductions get messed up because the person doing the introduction doesn’t know how to properly pronounce the name. There are a few things you can do to help:
ensure introducer knows how to pronounce your name
spell it out phonetically in the introduction
review how to say it prior to you being introduced

Determine the mood

Your introduction helps establish your audiences “state of mind.” Can they expect humour or is this a serious approach to the topic. Your audience will be more perceptive and appreciative if they understand what your objective is. Let them know if you are there to persuade, inform or clarify an idea.
Conclusion
Crafting introductions does take a little bit of effort on your part, but once you’ve written a few it becomes easy to do. A well designed introduction is key to engaging your audiences before you hit the platform and therefore helps ensure your success!

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Michelle Devlin, B.Comm is a professional speaker, facilitator and coach who works with corporations and individuals looking to improve their public speaking and communication skills. For tips and information about working with Michelle visit www.seriouslyspeaking.ca or call 780.918.6972.

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