When the speaker provides an introduction for you, use it. Read it over a few times and be prepared to say it with energy and enthusiasm.
For example, you find out the speech will be about encouraging young girls to learn computer programming. You shouldn’t spend time explaining how the speaker can teach these skills to adults.
For instance, a professor’s biography on their school website might inform you that, “Jane Doe used her scientific research to identify ten new species of birds. ” Try to find information relevant to the topic they will be speaking about. News articles and interviews will also have useful basic facts, such as “Jane Doe spent the last summer building schools in Africa. ”
Always get the speaker’s permission before using these details. Make sure you can explain why it’s important to your introduction.
Don’t use your guest’s speech to write your introduction. They may be giving a different speech this time, so you’ll create false expectations in the audience. Be careful if you’re using pieces from another speech since it is copyrighted material and can’t be used without the speaker’s permission.
For example, you met the speaker when working in a dog adoption center. Introduce this connection when beginning the speech. Finish by stating, “I know Jane Doe will inspire you to work better with your female students - and your dog. ”
Again, the speaker can tell you how you should address them. This information may also be found online or gotten from other people.
If the speaker is giving a talk about improving teamwork, for instance, mention that the speaker has changed the working environment in several Fortune 500 companies. You also wouldn’t want to list off degrees, awards, or Fortune 500 work experiences when the talk is about knitting at home.
For example, you might say, “John Smith will prove today that anyone can give a charismatic speech and that a little bit of anxiety isn’t always bad news. ”
You can mention something like, “20 years ago I became acquainted with a man who has challenged me to be better. He has become a good friend. ” You may also give a brief anecdote, such as “I heard John Smith speak in Miami and it moved me,” or, “Dr. Smith shared his ideas with me this morning and I guarantee you’ll love them. ” Be careful not to gush since it could raise expectations for the speaker. It may reduce the speaker’s confidence if you brag too much.
For example, you can say, “John Smith inspired me to go out and build a cabinet. It fell apart in five minutes. But I listened to his speech again, and I learned so much that I was able to open my own cabinet business. ”
For instance, you can say, “Please join me in welcoming Dr. John Smith!” You may also state the title of the speech if it is needed. This is helpful during large events when people are coming from various other locations or speakers. You could also introduce the speaker at the beginning of the speech and repeat their name throughout the introduction. This helps build familiarity with the audience.
Think of how you’d respond to the introduction if you were in the audience.
When stage fright is a problem, try reciting the introduction while looking in a mirror. Once you feel comfortable, rehearse it in front of family and friends. Recording your introduction is a simple way of hearing yourself while you’re alone. Play it back and listen for any spots where you need to improve.
Say, “Good evening. My name is Alex Brown and I’m the organizer of this event. ” When everyone knows you, such as for a teacher introducing a speaker to a classroom, you don’t need to do this.
