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John Jay Daly’s
Ideas for Speech ‘Openers’ and ‘Closers’
Among the pieces of solid advice I offer clients when I provide expert private speech coaching is this proven proverb for success:
“Develop a powerful opening and close with a memorable ending .... and keep them as close together as possible!”
Of course having something substantive to say “in the middle” is essential.
For advice about that part, check out some of my many Tipsheets about effective communications, writing and speaking. I always urge my coaching clients rehearse repeatedly for success.
To get started, here are some ways to develop effective openers & closers.
For Your Openers Consider Using One Of These Techniques:
- No more than three pertinent, challenging questions, the more provocative the better.
- Two or three startling facts, perhaps beginning with the words “Did you know that…?”
- An apt quotation, preferably from a famous person.
- A wise AND witty quote is better.
- A Biblical statement or perhaps a well-known proverb or opening lines of a poem.
- A short mnemonic around which you can then build your message.
- An apt, clever “saying” allegedly from your parent, grandparent or child.
- Announcement of truly brand-new news directly applicable to this audience. Caution: if the news is too startling, be sure that you immediately explain its meaning.
- Comment intelligently & appropriately on a topic that is currently much in the news
For Closers, Consider Speaking in Dramatic Tone While:
- Issuing a direct challenge in form of a strong “call to action.”
- Giving quick summary of talk, perhaps using a mnemonic to make action easier
- Reciting a powerful quotation, an apt Biblical saying or proverb
- Recount a “saying” allegedly from your parent, grandparent or child.
- Reciting a short poem that is dramatically given (and perhaps made available to audience).
- Respectfully offering an applicable prayer (briefer is better)
By John Jay Daly, President, DALY COMMUNICATIONS, Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Phone: 301/656 0444. E-mail: Speaker@johnjaydaly.com Copyright MMIII by John Jay Daly
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