Introducing a Speaker

Have you been intimidated by a request to introduce a speaker? Have you wondered how others seem to do it so easily, yet when you think about it, all you can visualize are all the things that might go wrong?

Don’t be put off by the uncertainty or your lack of practice. If you can remember a few simple guidelines, you can make an effective introduction, too. First, recognize that the introduction of a speaker is not about you — it’s about the speaker, and about the expectations you generate for him her.

You do not need to wow the audience, in fact you should not. Don’t take any attention away from the speaker; your role is to facilitate the speech, not make one of your own. As we note below, your speaking time should not be more than a minute or two.

Impromptu Speaking Tips

“It usually takes me more than three weeks to prepare a good impromptu speech.”

– Mark Twain

Introduction

When people are suddenly asked to speak impromptu their nerves begin to flutter like butterflies, however as Toastmasters we have the advantage of practicing impromptu speaking in order to keep those butterflies in formation. The Toastmasters Table Topics Session is a valuable exercise in order to practice the following suggestions and improve your skills and ability to speak extemporaneously.