CEOs, managers, sales speakers and technology experts agree that getting started is the most challenging part of preparing for a business speech or presentation. "What do I say first?" is the most frequently asked question when I begin coaching a client.
The answer is quite simple: put the word "you" (as in the audience) in the first sentence. The only exception is the phrase "thank you for having me here." That is not about the audience.
Some suggested opening lines:
- Have you ever imagined...?
- What happened when you...?
- What would happen if you...?
- You should have been there when...
What follows one of these is related to the audiences' need or interest or goal or desire. Show them with your words and your body language that you are there for them. Doing this immediately answers their unspoken but ever-present question "what's in it for me?"
A client recently commented that after years of following what he had thought were absolute rules, he realized that they were customs and habits--not actually hard and fast rules that had to be followed. And that was a huge relief to him! He was now free to be creative and interesting, and to focus on his connection with the audience. He discovered that speaking was a joyful and fulfilling opportunity rather than a boring duty.
How are you going to free yourself from customs that force you to struggle with your opening lines? Share your ideas through our comment link.
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