The first word that popped into my mind when I read the words ‘academic areas’ was ‘boring!’
Odds are that there will be someone to introduce you. A good rule of thumb is to write your own introduction. Give a copy to your introducer and keep one for yourself in case they lose their copy.
Be prepared to introduce yourself if the expected introducer doesn’t do it or be prepared to make corrections if your introducer mangles it.
If your topic and session has been promoted in a program brochure, some of your audience will be there because the topic interested them and they are there by choice.
Others may be there due to other sessions being full and yours looked like it had empty seats.
In your opening comments, you need to attract both group’s attention.
Rule of thumb, if it is on your slide, you don’t need to read it out loud. Most of your audience will already have read the content on the slide.
I once heard the opening comments about a presentation on water usage in a large city.
‘The good news is that the water in the glass you are holding has gone through eight sets of kidneys before it goes through yours.’
‘The bad news is … there isn’t enough water for everybody.’
You can grab your audience’s attention, no matter what the subject is, by giving them a startling fact, as mentioned above.
Another device I use often is to ask a rhetorical question. ‘Who among us has ever …?’
It doesn’t really matter if anyone answers you and you are likely better off if they don’t. The question and their response or lack of, sets you up to be the expert on the subject.
You can also start your session with a quick quiz, which allows you to assess the level of knowledge on the subject. The results can provide you with a good segue into your topic. ‘Well, today we will cover …’
~~~
For further discussion on public speaking, speech development, communication skills and Toastmasters, visit the Live For Excellence Book Store for the following publications:
Blow Your Own Horn!: Personal Branding for Business Professionals
Power Networking For Shy People: How to Network Like a Pro
The Power of Persuasion: Mastering the Art of Influence
The Power of Promotion: Online Marketing For Toastmasters Club Growth
The Savvy Emcee: How to be a Dynamic Master of Ceremonies
Working With Words: Adding Life to Your Oral Presentations
Related Posts
Rae A. Stonehouse is an author, speaker, and self-publishing consultant dedicated to helping others embrace constant improvement and overcome challenges. With over 40 years of experience as a Registered Nurse in psychiatry and mental health, Rae brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for self-development to his writing and presentations.
As a 25+ year member of Toastmasters International, Rae has systematically built his communication abilities and self-confidence to share his insights as an author and speaker. His self-help books and personal development presentations aim to have conversational one-on-one connections with readers and audiences.
Rae is known for his wry sense of humor and sage advice delivered in a relatable coaching style. After four decades as a nurse, Rae has rewired rather than retired, actively writing and pursuing public speaking. He strives to share lessons learned to help others achieve personal and professional growth.
To learn more about Rae and his approach to constant improvement, visit his website at Live For Excellence Productions or to learn more about his publications visit Live For Excellence Store
