Reader questions and feedback on public speaking issues. Also refer to speeches, presentation, writing, preparation, fear, anxiety, nervousness, stuttering, Toastmasters, evaluation, Ron Kurtus, School for Champions. Copyright © Restrictions
Answers to Readers' Questions on Public Speaking:
Introduced
The following 2 comments and questions have been sent in. They are listed according to date.
List of first 10 items
Using humor in introduction
Question
October 23, 2004
Isn't it necessary to try to find something humorous to say when introducing a speaker, and even if you do not know the individual well. For instance, if the speaker is the wife of our spiritual leader of a congregation, and is thought of as a very noted and talented person, would it be unkind to try to make a joke or be humorous about the two of them, or should this be eliminated? Does one just thank the audience for attending and then go straight to the name of the topic, why we are here, and the qualifications of the speaker.
Bette - USA
4767
Answer
You might add some light humor, but you should always be very cautious about doing so.
The idea of the introduction is to prepare the audience for the speaker and topic, as well as to indicate the speaker is worth listening to. It also allows the audience to get settled, making it easier for the speaker to start the talk. It is not a time to try to be clever or show your own speaking skills, as some people giving introductions often do. Also, if you do not know the person, it may be risky to say something humorous.
I would not thank the audience for attending in the introduction. Assume that they want to be there and that hearing the speaker will be a treat for them.
It is good to ask the speaker what items he or she would like mentioned in the introduction. I like this order of things: topic, qualifications, professional background, and then a few personal items (i.e. "She has two children in college and enjoys sewing in her spare time.")
Will be MC at a conference
Question
September 10, 2004
I need some help on how to prepare speech, as I being the M.C. for a technology conference. I know the matter of the conference, the target audience, the goal of the conference by heart, however i would like to go for a script.
Should i go for bullet points? or
should i have a detailed word by word speech ready with me?
Thou i find difficult to read the script and then work it out, working as per the situation is comfortable for me. what do u suggest?
ritesh - India
4217
Answer
Being the MC, you would probably need to introduce speakers, as well as to provide information inbetween. Get short written introductions and practice each. You may be able to use bullet points for each.
Outline other material you plan to say. If you are going to give a short speech, be sure to keep it very short. You do not want to dominate the occasion. It is better to use an outline or bullet points as a reminder, and it is important to practice to make sure it flows smoothly.
Best wishes in your speaking.
Summary
Hopefully, this reader feedback has helped provide information about Speaking issues.
Always do your best
Resources
The following are some resources on this topic.
Websites
Books
Top-rated books on Public Speaking
What do you think?
Do you have any questions, comments, or opinions on this subject? If so, send an email with your feedback. We will try to get back to you as soon as possible.
Feel free to establish a link from your website to pages in this site.
Where can you go from here?
Answers to Readers' Questions