Speeches of Introduction
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The object of a speech of introduction is to prepare or “warm up” the audience for the main speaker—to heighten audience interest and build the speaker’s credibility. A good speech of introduction balances four elements: the speaker’s background, the subject of the speaker’s message, the occasion, and the audience.
- Describe the speaker’s background and qualifications. Relate the speaker’s achievements, offices held, and other facts to demonstrate why the speaker is relevant to the occasion. Mention the speaker’s accomplishments, but not so many that the audience glazes over.
- Briefly preview the speaker’s topic. Give the audience a sense of why the subject is of interest, bearing in mind that it is not the introducer’s job to evaluate the speech. The rule is: Get in and out quickly with a few well-chosen remarks.
- Invite the audience to welcome the speaker. This can be done simply by saying something like “Please welcome Cesar Cruz.”
- Be brief. Speak just long enough to accomplish the goals of preparation and motivation. One well-known speaker recommends a two-minute maximum.1
Checklist: Preparing a Speech of Introduction
Identify the speaker correctly. Assign him or her the proper title, such as “vice president for public relations” or “professor emeritus.”
Practice a difficult-to-pronounce name several times before introducing the speaker.
Contact the speaker ahead of time to verify any facts about him or her that you plan to cite.
Consider devices that will capture the audience’s attention, such as quotes, short anecdotes, or startling statements.
Respond to the Introduction
Whenever you are introduced by another speaker, acknowledge and thank him or her for the introduction. Common methods of responding include “I appreciate those kind words” and “Thank you for making me feel welcome… .” Accept praise with humility and perhaps even with humor: “Your description was so gracious that I did not realize you were speaking about me… .”