by Ren La Porte
In the lead up to Michael McIntyre’s career as a comedian, he gave exceptional performances hosting a Comedy Roadshow (Chartwell Speakers, 2024). The way he introduced the next speaker, provoked remarkable anticipation for what was about to unfold. It inevitably lead to the show’s success and his successful career.
The vibe that is created from introducing the next speaker, can have a remarkable effect on subsequent interactions. Although a large event may be the most common scenario for introducing a speaker, introducing people can happen anywhere. For instance:
- at work – introducing a newcomer to colleagues
- a social situation – introducing a new friend to the group
‘Every speaker deserves a thoughtful and helpful introduction’
(Toastmasters International, 2016)
Whether the event is large or small, public or private, the introduction is a role that requires some careful consideration. The introduction itself can be interpreted as a small speech. The following tips will add value to your next introduction.
TIPS FOR WHAT TO DO
- Aim to establish a bond between the speaker and the audience. If there are common traits, this is a good time to highlight them. The introduction will help the audience understand why the up-coming topic will be beneficial to them.
- Research the speaker. What are their achievements to date? (These can be found on LinkedIn). What makes the speaker an authority to talk about this topic? Gather evidence to show credibility. This creates trust. Does the speaker have a funny story or anecdote already prepared for you? Some organised speakers are prepared to make your task easy.
- Making time to approach the speaker beforehand is great initiative to gather appropriate information. It also adds to ‘teamwork’ and builds important relationships.
- Establish expectation. Understand what the speaker wishes to achieve. If the speaker is looking to set a particular tone in their speech, the introduction can help them achieve this. If the speaker is looking to inspire, provoke, educate, sell, persuade, or entertain, the introduction will assist to set the mood.
- Structure the introduction. As with a speech, start with a strong opening line. The introduction needs to grab the audience’s attention. Have a body and conclusion in the introductory speech. A strong conclusion facilitates a readiness in the audience to redirect their attention.
- Generate appreciation to the speaker. This is an opportunity to ensure the speaker is appreciated for the time they are giving to the moment. The introduction is an opportunity to make sure the speaker feels valued.
- Initiate the applause. At an event, it is custom to wait at the lectern until the speaker has arrived. Depending on how far the speaker has to walk up to the stage, will decide when you initiate the applause.
- Body language is powerful in the changeover of speakers. For instance, a hearty handshake, a nod of appreciation, a hand on the shoulder etc. This style of body language makes a clear indication to the audience when to transfer their attention.
- Preparation for an introduction is just as important as preparing a full speech. As with a full speech, spend time rehearsing. If the introduction speech is sub-standard, the audience may categorise the whole experience to be sub-standard.
TIPS FOR WHAT NOT TO DO
- Don’t take over the show. The introduction is a lead up to the star attraction. Whilst preparation is important, ensure that the effort is a lead up only, to the main performance.
- Know the appropriate time limit for the introduction. Don’t say the speaker’s speech for them or give away too much detail. The introduction is to complement the speech, not be the speech itself.
THE TOASTMASTER
If you would like to practice introducing speakers in front of a live audience, we recommend joining Toastmasters. Roles are given out to members to help make the night a collaborative success. The role that incorporates introductions and hosting is called: The Toastmaster.
This role may sound challenging to some, but for the most part it is a lot of fun. The Toastmaster leads with a fun vibe to make the meeting as fun as possible. If this is the challenge you would like to master, please reach out to our group.
REFERENCES
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- Chartwell Speakers (2024). Michael McIntyre. https://www.chartwellspeakers.com/speaker/michael-mcintyre/
- Toastmasters International (2016). Competent Communication. USA.
Interesting Read – Mentored for Success
