how to write a speech on something you're passionate about

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How to Turn Your Passion Into a Powerful Speech

You may be totally committed to your topic and message. But do you know how to get all of that across to audiences? Here's how to turn your passion into a powerful speech.

There's a saying that's either the invention of Gordon B. Hinckley or is an old Irish proverb:

"You'll never plow a field by turning it over in your mind."

I think of that maxim sometimes when I'm working with a speaker — as I did recently — whose passion resides wholly in the text of their speech, but who gives no hint of it in performance. But if an audience doesn't  see  and  hear  your commitment to your message, how are you going to get them to believe in it as strongly as you do?

Can you achieve the holy grail of public speaking —great material combined with a dynamic performance? Discover how in my  free Insights article ,   "Great Speaking?  —  It's About Performance Over Content!"

Your speech's content, like data, can only accomplish so much. Basically, it conveys information wonderfully. The rest of it — from the immediacy of your message , to its benefit for listeners, to the meaning of the information you're conveying — is solidly your territory. So how can you turn the passion you feel into a powerful speech so everyone else "gets it"?

Just Talk to Us . . . and Stop Trying to Be Perfect

There's a fault concerning public speaking known as "perfectionizing." It means attempting to create a beautifully polished presentation that's perfect in every respect.

This is due partly to spending time in the literary realm crafting what is, in effect, a lovely piece of literature. But the public speaking realm is more boxing ring than literary salon. And  your job is to step inside the ropes and  mix it up .   

Writing a perfect speech is useless for three reasons: 1) You probably can't do it unless you're an extraordinary speech writer; 2) You'll be likely to get enmeshed in the rhythms of writing, which are different from those of speaking, and 3) It keeps your attention on your script rather than where it needs to be: on your listeners and their response to what you're saying. 

Audiences don't care about beautifully crafted pieces of rhetoric. They  do  care about speakers who can connect with them and who share their interests and values. The truth is, they'd rather be punched in the gut than have their heads gently stroked, because that hits them where they live. So they want you to be more Ali than Hemingway. 

Learn the Actor's Skills of Externalizing What You Feel

Once you commit to speaking with impact rather than oratory, it's time to learn how to get it all across the footlights.

Because here's the thing my clients hear me say often: It's never a question of having passion, and even a fierce desire to share it with listeners. It  always  comes down to showing it in performance. A udiences aren't mind readers, and most of them don't know the Vulcan mind-meld. If you don't show it, they won't know it.

You have to take a page from the actor's art , for actors spend their entire careers learning how to effectively externalize what they are feeling. So, a quick study guide to learning how to command a stage:

• Turn your energy around: The self-conscious or perfectionizing speaker thinks in terms of his or her own performance. But the audience must be the center of your universe as it is for the actor —it's  the sun around which you revolve. The simple act of turning your energy outward will start the process of having more of a relationship with your listeners than with your manuscript.
• Think in terms of physical expression: Most of us are guilty of Talking Head Syndrome, so in terms of effective public speaking there's really too much furniture upstairs. Since audience members don't have a crystal ball, they need you to physically express what you're saying. That's why you have a body as a public speaker! Your tools: the body language of posture, stance, and gestures; facial expressions (and smiles); eye contact; and vocal dynamics. When you express what you're saying physically, it takes your talk onto an entirely different plane. That's where memorability often hangs out.
• Pay attention to pace and the shape of your speech: Nothing is worse than an otherwise good talk that unfurls in an unvarying pace on a featureless plateau. Leadership in public speaking means delivering a speech exactly   the way you intend to: at your pace, comfortable for you and sufficient for your audience to relax and absorb what you say. Consider as well the  shape  of your speech: Which segments are the most powerful, and which moments are inherently dramatic? The parts of your speech are not equal; you should know how to play up the major sections, and downplay the others.
• Use your performance space: The space you speak in —whether it's a convention stage or a few feet at the end of a conference table —is yours to command. This too is an aspect of leadership in public speaking. We expect you to move: to use the space itself to emphasize things you're saying. Don't prowl or wander; move with a purpose tied to what you're trying to achieve from moment to moment. Even a lectern shouldn't stop you from conveying your passion in a powerful way . Use the podium to refer to your notes or manuscript if you must. But take the opportunities to come out from behind it. You might be amazed at how it makes your speech come to life. Us, too.

You should follow me on Twitter  here .

Gary Genard is an actor, author, and expert in theater-based public speaking training. His company, Boston-based   The Genard Method   uses performance techniques to help business executives, leadership teams, and professionals embody presence and confidence to achieve true influence. In 2018 for the fifth consecutive year, Gary has been ranked by Global Gurus as one of the World's Top 30 Communication Professionals. He is the author of the books  How to Give a Speech  and  Fearless Speaking .

Tags: public speaking training , presentation skills , effective presentations , presentation training , motivational speaking , public speaking for leadership , motivational speaker , passion , passionate speaking , passionate speech , passionate speaker , leadership coaching , leadership training , leadership development , public speaking skills for leadership , motivational speaker training

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Top tips for delivering a passionate presentation

• April 20, 2022

You have a passion that you would like to share with the world. Maybe it’s gardening, scrapbooking, or cooking! There are many ways people can turn their passion presentation for careers in various industries. from being an artist who creates art-related products as part-time work on weekends (to selling them at craft shows) all while working full-time during weekdays; or even As a church leader, you’ve likely had plenty of practice with public speaking. Years of experience have given you the confidence to hold your own in front of large crowds and provide talks that are both engaging and relevant, no matter the size or Presentation design services of the audience.

“If passion drives you, let reason hold the reins.” -Benjamin Franklin

Table of Contents

Why Passion Is Essential?

The wisdom of Benjamin Franklin reminds us to be cautious when it comes to presentations driven by passion. Passion can be a powerful tool, but if it’s not guided by reason, the results may not reflect a person’s true potential. This quote speaks volumes about the value of passionate presentations – provided they are directed and focused. When passion is presented in a reasoned manner, one is already on their way towards success.

1- Have a clear idea

Presentation time! When it comes to making presentations about your passion, the most important thing is preparation. This means having a clear idea of what you want to say and how YOU are going to convey that in an engaging way so people will listen and stay tuned for more information later on down this road because WE know there’s always more story left unwritten after all these years… Take some extra effort now by taking note of our example below: One great place starting points can come from is “The 5 Love Languages,” by Gary Chapman (which I’m told every single person owns). You’ll need access if possible but even just reading and skimming over parts could help freshen up any existing knowledge.

2- Know your reasons

When you’re passionate about something, it shows. What’s your reason for getting up in front of an audience each day? Maybe it’s to share a love or knowledge that will inspire others like them–and maybe even teach themselves new skills along the way! Keynote speakers know how powerful this approach can be because they’ve seen firsthand just what happens when someone is truly invested: hearts open wide as flames contagious laughter fills every soul present enthusiasm runs high everyone wants more… This passage comes from my experience working with audiences who have demonstrated exceptional

3- Be engaging and interesting

When you’re delivering a presentation, it’s important to be engaging and interesting. This means using different techniques like visuals or storytelling in your speech so that people stay tuned into what is happening! It also helps if they know beforehand just how well YOU will do during the actual event by practicing beforehand- even though this may sound counterintuitive at first given all of our natural hesitation creatures when put on stage performing ourselves (or giving presentations).

4- SPEAK ABOUT SOMETHING YOU’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT

When you’re on stage, it’s not just about what is said but also how your voice sounds. If the room can feel one hundred degrees more temperate with an enthusiastic tone of speech than without one – then we have ourselves a winner!

Delivering an effective presentation requires clarity in articulating words and phrases. As well, speaking with passion provides an emotion-filled element that will engage listeners. Additionally, it is important to ensure the verbal content ties together neatly when transitioning between topics or speeches. Taking these qualities into consideration will help create a powerful connection with your audience.

5- DON’T USE FLASHCARDS

You’re about to give a speech and you know it’s going to be tough, but don’t prepare too much. Trust your natural instincts when preparing for this event because making eye contact with the audience or focusing on key points will help make an interesting talk that leaves people wanting more. When you’re preparing for a presentation, make sure to only work on the lines that will really help your performance. It’s stressful enough trying to remember what I said in addition to just forgetting everything anyway so why add another layer of difficulty by practicing things beforehand? The answer here is simple – don’t prepare anything but those moments where it matters most!

6- FOCUS ON THE INDIVIDUALS IN YOUR AUDIENCE

When addressing a crowd, make eye contact with those in attendance and smile. Once you’re comfortable do so while maintaining the widest grin possible to show how excited or happy about what’s going on! This will help everyone else feel involved too-it’s important that every individual feels invested if possible (and hopefully interested). If not ask questions yourself; either way have fun engaging all those strangers around me!”

7- PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE

Prior rehearsal is key to mastering your presentation. You must become confident with the material you plan to present, and its structure. Remember that you are running a performance show – various moments may be energetic or calmer, but all should have an effect on your audience members. As you rehearse, consider the emotions of your listeners. Note which times they should feel energized and when they need to experience slower movements. Perfecting this ‘symphony’ will make all the difference in delivering with poise and confidence.

8- Use visuals

Using visuals for presentations can be an effective way to illustrate your topic and enhance the audience’s engagement. Consider incorporating videos, photos, or charts to help get your message across in a concise and direct manner. It’s best to prepare these elements beforehand so you’re ready for the presentation day.

Examples of Speakers who have passion presentations:

Steve Jobs left an indelible impact on the art of public speaking. His 2007 presentation of Apple’s first iPhone revolutionized the field. An inspired performance, it elevated public speaking to new heights and established Jobs as a benchmark for other would-be communicators.

Elon Musk’s companies have become some of the most recognizable businesses around the world. His speaking style is unique; compared to many others in the industry, it lacks polish and comes from a personal place. His public engagements often evoke strong emotions.

Oprah Winfrey

The renowned TV host has captured the attention of her audiences with her uplifting speeches. She often shares personal anecdotes and heartwarming messages about how she has achieved success in life. Her stirring talks have been delivered at a variety of award ceremonies and events, where she spreads positivity through inspiring stories.

At the end of this information, we wish to let you know that should you require help in the middle of your process, our team of experts at Temis Marketing will be more than happy to assist. With their specialized skills and services, we guarantee 100% customer satisfaction. Thank you for your time!

Even if you don’t have to regularly present in front of a group, there are countless situations where strong public speaking skills can help you advance in your career. Being a good public speaker can increase your reputation, boost your confidence, and open up countless opportunities for you.

Passion can be a powerful tool, but if it’s not guided by reason, the results may not reflect a person’s true potential.When passion is presented in a reasoned manner, one is already on their way towards success.

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Public Speaking: Tips & Tricks for Presenting with Passion

If you had told me before I walked into my first environmental activism group meeting how much public speaking would be required, I would have likely turned right around. To this day, I deal with an issue that is very common: I get really nervous when I’m speaking in front of a group.

When I started my journey as an activist, I would shake so badly that it affected my voice; and that was when I was only facing a couple people at a time. I can remember a few times when I completely blanked on my talking points. This used to frustrate me to the point of almost giving up, but recently I realized that to keep my eco-message alive, I need to embrace the task of public speaking.

I have now spoken to groups of over one hundred people with few mistakes. There are a few tricks that helped me get to this place that I’d like to share with YOU:

1. SPEAK ABOUT SOMETHING YOU’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT

An extrinsic motivator for many of my peers, along with myself, is the cause that puts us behind that podium. For some, this may be feeding the homeless in their community , while others may be more passionate about community gardening . If you speak from the heart it gives your presentation a sense of purpose, and the audience can tell.

2. DON’T USE FLASHCARDS

While nerves may compel you to over-prepare, this might actually be to your disadvantage. You can be disconnected from your audience by lack of eye contact, even if you are passionate and prepared. Plus, trying to keep track of lines and their wording can add extra stress you really don’t need. Stick to remembering a few key points and the transitions will flow with it.

3. DON’T FORGET TO BREATHE

While your body may want to tense up as you’re standing there in front of others, try to maintain normal body function. Breathing may seem like common sense, but breathing too much or not enough can add stress and be disruptive to your presentation. Notice you’re normal breathing pace before you get on stage and when you feel out of control, try to go back to that. The pacing can also help with the flow of your words. A natural demeanor will decrease stress for you and better connect you to your audience.

4. FOCUS ON THE INDIVIDUALS IN YOUR AUDIENCE

A crowd of unrecognizable faces is far more intimidating than the face of a parent, friend, or peer. Try to make eye contact with those people in the audience as you warm up to the situation. Once you’re comfortable, make eye contact with others as if they’re also your peer. Your connection with them through body language will put you more at ease and further engage them in your presentation. If possible try to get your audience involved by having them ask questions or asking them questions yourself. People are the most engaged when they have a part to play.

5. PRACTICE

The saying “practice makes perfect” has some truth to it! After joining the Roots & Shoots National Youth Leadership Council I was given opportunities to push myself to do more presentations. Guess what! After each one…I got better and less nervous! Seek out opportunities to challenge yourself and refine your skills — you may be surprised by how well you can do. (Why not start now? Applications to join the 2017 Roots & Shoots NYLC are open to U.S. students in 8-11 grades right now! Learn more here. )

There are plenty more ways to tackle your nerves but these are the ones that have been most helpful for me. If you’re feeling inspired, explore some ideas for your next Roots & Shoots project or, contact a current NYLC Member for specific advice and mentoring for your Roots & Shoots group or classroom. Do everything you can now, so you can ace your next presentation with passion!

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About Author

Zoe is a member of the Roots & Shoots U.S. National Youth Leadership Council (NYLC). As a member of the NYLC, Zoe acts as a youth voice and works to make a positive change in her community — for people, animals and the environment. Zoe is a Junior at Santa Monica High School. She has been involved with Roots & Shoots since 2013. With her group, Team Marine, she has brought attention to cigarette accumulation in Santa Monica and works to reduce the straw pollution in her community. She has received a Commendation from the City of Santa Monica for her work.

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How to write a speech that your audience remembers

Whether in a work meeting or at an investor panel, you might give a speech at some point. And no matter how excited you are about the opportunity, the experience can be nerve-wracking . 

But feeling butterflies doesn’t mean you can’t give a great speech. With the proper preparation and a clear outline, apprehensive public speakers and natural wordsmiths alike can write and present a compelling message. Here’s how to write a good speech you’ll be proud to deliver.

What is good speech writing?

Good speech writing is the art of crafting words and ideas into a compelling, coherent, and memorable message that resonates with the audience. Here are some key elements of great speech writing:

• It begins with clearly understanding the speech's purpose and the audience it seeks to engage. 
• A well-written speech clearly conveys its central message, ensuring that the audience understands and retains the key points. 
• It is structured thoughtfully, with a captivating opening, a well-organized body, and a conclusion that reinforces the main message. 
• Good speech writing embraces the power of engaging content, weaving in stories, examples, and relatable anecdotes to connect with the audience on both intellectual and emotional levels. 

Ultimately, it is the combination of these elements, along with the authenticity and delivery of the speaker , that transforms words on a page into a powerful and impactful spoken narrative.

What makes a good speech?

A great speech includes several key qualities, but three fundamental elements make a speech truly effective:

Clarity and purpose

Remembering the audience, cohesive structure.

While other important factors make a speech a home run, these three elements are essential for writing an effective speech.

The main elements of a good speech

The main elements of a speech typically include:

• Introduction: The introduction sets the stage for your speech and grabs the audience's attention. It should include a hook or attention-grabbing opening, introduce the topic, and provide an overview of what will be covered.
• Opening/captivating statement: This is a strong statement that immediately engages the audience and creates curiosity about the speech topics.
• Thesis statement/central idea: The thesis statement or central idea is a concise statement that summarizes the main point or argument of your speech. It serves as a roadmap for the audience to understand what your speech is about.
• Body: The body of the speech is where you elaborate on your main points or arguments. Each point is typically supported by evidence, examples, statistics, or anecdotes. The body should be organized logically and coherently, with smooth transitions between the main points.
• Supporting evidence: This includes facts, data, research findings, expert opinions, or personal stories that support and strengthen your main points. Well-chosen and credible evidence enhances the persuasive power of your speech.
• Transitions: Transitions are phrases or statements that connect different parts of your speech, guiding the audience from one idea to the next. Effective transitions signal the shifts in topics or ideas and help maintain a smooth flow throughout the speech.
• Counterarguments and rebuttals (if applicable): If your speech involves addressing opposing viewpoints or counterarguments, you should acknowledge and address them. Presenting counterarguments makes your speech more persuasive and demonstrates critical thinking.
• Conclusion: The conclusion is the final part of your speech and should bring your message to a satisfying close. Summarize your main points, restate your thesis statement, and leave the audience with a memorable closing thought or call to action.
• Closing statement: This is the final statement that leaves a lasting impression and reinforces the main message of your speech. It can be a call to action, a thought-provoking question, a powerful quote, or a memorable anecdote.
• Delivery and presentation: How you deliver your speech is also an essential element to consider. Pay attention to your tone, body language, eye contact , voice modulation, and timing. Practice and rehearse your speech, and try using the 7-38-55 rule to ensure confident and effective delivery.

While the order and emphasis of these elements may vary depending on the type of speech and audience, these elements provide a framework for organizing and delivering a successful speech.

How to structure a good speech

You know what message you want to transmit, who you’re delivering it to, and even how you want to say it. But you need to know how to start, develop, and close a speech before writing it. 

Think of a speech like an essay. It should have an introduction, conclusion, and body sections in between. This places ideas in a logical order that the audience can better understand and follow them. Learning how to make a speech with an outline gives your storytelling the scaffolding it needs to get its point across.

Here’s a general speech structure to guide your writing process:

• Explanation 1
• Explanation 2
• Explanation 3

How to write a compelling speech opener

Some research shows that engaged audiences pay attention for only 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Other estimates are even lower, citing that people stop listening intently in fewer than 10 minutes . If you make a good first impression at the beginning of your speech, you have a better chance of interesting your audience through the middle when attention spans fade. 

Implementing the INTRO model can help grab and keep your audience’s attention as soon as you start speaking. This acronym stands for interest, need, timing, roadmap, and objectives, and it represents the key points you should hit in an opening. 

Here’s what to include for each of these points: 

• Interest : Introduce yourself or your topic concisely and speak with confidence . Write a compelling opening statement using relevant data or an anecdote that the audience can relate to.
• Needs : The audience is listening to you because they have something to learn. If you’re pitching a new app idea to a panel of investors, those potential partners want to discover more about your product and what they can earn from it. Read the room and gently remind them of the purpose of your speech. 
• Timing : When appropriate, let your audience know how long you’ll speak. This lets listeners set expectations and keep tabs on their own attention span. If a weary audience member knows you’ll talk for 40 minutes, they can better manage their energy as that time goes on. 
• Routemap : Give a brief overview of the three main points you’ll cover in your speech. If an audience member’s attention starts to drop off and they miss a few sentences, they can more easily get their bearings if they know the general outline of the presentation.
• Objectives : Tell the audience what you hope to achieve, encouraging them to listen to the end for the payout. 

Writing the middle of a speech

The body of your speech is the most information-dense section. Facts, visual aids, PowerPoints — all this information meets an audience with a waning attention span. Sticking to the speech structure gives your message focus and keeps you from going off track, making everything you say as useful as possible.

Limit the middle of your speech to three points, and support them with no more than three explanations. Following this model organizes your thoughts and prevents you from offering more information than the audience can retain. 

Using this section of the speech to make your presentation interactive can add interest and engage your audience. Try including a video or demonstration to break the monotony. A quick poll or survey also keeps the audience on their toes. 

Wrapping the speech up

To you, restating your points at the end can feel repetitive and dull. You’ve practiced countless times and heard it all before. But repetition aids memory and learning , helping your audience retain what you’ve told them. Use your speech’s conclusion to summarize the main points with a few short sentences.

Try to end on a memorable note, like posing a motivational quote or a thoughtful question the audience can contemplate once they leave. In proposal or pitch-style speeches, consider landing on a call to action (CTA) that invites your audience to take the next step.

How to write a good speech

If public speaking gives you the jitters, you’re not alone. Roughly 80% of the population feels nervous before giving a speech, and another 10% percent experiences intense anxiety and sometimes even panic. 

The fear of failure can cause procrastination and can cause you to put off your speechwriting process until the last minute. Finding the right words takes time and preparation, and if you’re already feeling nervous, starting from a blank page might seem even harder.

But putting in the effort despite your stress is worth it. Presenting a speech you worked hard on fosters authenticity and connects you to the subject matter, which can help your audience understand your points better. Human connection is all about honesty and vulnerability, and if you want to connect to the people you’re speaking to, they should see that in you.

1. Identify your objectives and target audience

Before diving into the writing process, find healthy coping strategies to help you stop worrying . Then you can define your speech’s purpose, think about your target audience, and start identifying your objectives. Here are some questions to ask yourself and ground your thinking : 

• What purpose do I want my speech to achieve? 
• What would it mean to me if I achieved the speech’s purpose?
• What audience am I writing for? 
• What do I know about my audience? 
• What values do I want to transmit? 
• If the audience remembers one take-home message, what should it be? 
• What do I want my audience to feel, think, or do after I finish speaking? 
• What parts of my message could be confusing and require further explanation?

2. Know your audience

Understanding your audience is crucial for tailoring your speech effectively. Consider the demographics of your audience, their interests, and their expectations. For instance, if you're addressing a group of healthcare professionals, you'll want to use medical terminology and data that resonate with them. Conversely, if your audience is a group of young students, you'd adjust your content to be more relatable to their experiences and interests. 

3. Choose a clear message

Your message should be the central idea that you want your audience to take away from your speech. Let's say you're giving a speech on climate change. Your clear message might be something like, "Individual actions can make a significant impact on mitigating climate change." Throughout your speech, all your points and examples should support this central message, reinforcing it for your audience.

4. Structure your speech

Organizing your speech properly keeps your audience engaged and helps them follow your ideas. The introduction should grab your audience's attention and introduce the topic. For example, if you're discussing space exploration, you could start with a fascinating fact about a recent space mission. In the body, you'd present your main points logically, such as the history of space exploration, its scientific significance, and future prospects. Finally, in the conclusion, you'd summarize your key points and reiterate the importance of space exploration in advancing human knowledge.

5. Use engaging content for clarity

Engaging content includes stories, anecdotes, statistics, and examples that illustrate your main points. For instance, if you're giving a speech about the importance of reading, you might share a personal story about how a particular book changed your perspective. You could also include statistics on the benefits of reading, such as improved cognitive abilities and empathy.

6. Maintain clarity and simplicity

It's essential to communicate your ideas clearly. Avoid using overly technical jargon or complex language that might confuse your audience. For example, if you're discussing a medical breakthrough with a non-medical audience, explain complex terms in simple, understandable language.

7. Practice and rehearse

Practice is key to delivering a great speech. Rehearse multiple times to refine your delivery, timing, and tone. Consider using a mirror or recording yourself to observe your body language and gestures. For instance, if you're giving a motivational speech, practice your gestures and expressions to convey enthusiasm and confidence.

8. Consider nonverbal communication

Your body language, tone of voice, and gestures should align with your message . If you're delivering a speech on leadership, maintain strong eye contact to convey authority and connection with your audience. A steady pace and varied tone can also enhance your speech's impact.

9. Engage your audience

Engaging your audience keeps them interested and attentive. Encourage interaction by asking thought-provoking questions or sharing relatable anecdotes. If you're giving a speech on teamwork, ask the audience to recall a time when teamwork led to a successful outcome, fostering engagement and connection.

10. Prepare for Q&A

Anticipate potential questions or objections your audience might have and prepare concise, well-informed responses. If you're delivering a speech on a controversial topic, such as healthcare reform, be ready to address common concerns, like the impact on healthcare costs or access to services, during the Q&A session.

By following these steps and incorporating examples that align with your specific speech topic and purpose, you can craft and deliver a compelling and impactful speech that resonates with your audience.

Tools for writing a great speech

There are several helpful tools available for speechwriting, both technological and communication-related. Here are a few examples:

• Word processing software: Tools like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or other word processors provide a user-friendly environment for writing and editing speeches. They offer features like spell-checking, grammar correction, formatting options, and easy revision tracking.
• Presentation software: Software such as Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides is useful when creating visual aids to accompany your speech. These tools allow you to create engaging slideshows with text, images, charts, and videos to enhance your presentation.
• Speechwriting Templates: Online platforms or software offer pre-designed templates specifically for speechwriting. These templates provide guidance on structuring your speech and may include prompts for different sections like introductions, main points, and conclusions.
• Rhetorical devices and figures of speech: Rhetorical tools such as metaphors, similes, alliteration, and parallelism can add impact and persuasion to your speech. Resources like books, websites, or academic papers detailing various rhetorical devices can help you incorporate them effectively.
• Speechwriting apps: Mobile apps designed specifically for speechwriting can be helpful in organizing your thoughts, creating outlines, and composing a speech. These apps often provide features like voice recording, note-taking, and virtual prompts to keep you on track.
• Grammar and style checkers: Online tools or plugins like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor help improve the clarity and readability of your speech by checking for grammar, spelling, and style errors. They provide suggestions for sentence structure, word choice, and overall tone.
• Thesaurus and dictionary: Online or offline resources such as thesauruses and dictionaries help expand your vocabulary and find alternative words or phrases to express your ideas more effectively. They can also clarify meanings or provide context for unfamiliar terms.
• Online speechwriting communities: Joining online forums or communities focused on speechwriting can be beneficial for getting feedback, sharing ideas, and learning from experienced speechwriters. It's an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and improve your public speaking skills through collaboration.

Remember, while these tools can assist in the speechwriting process, it's essential to use them thoughtfully and adapt them to your specific needs and style. The most important aspect of speechwriting remains the creativity, authenticity, and connection with your audience that you bring to your speech.

5 tips for writing a speech

Behind every great speech is an excellent idea and a speaker who refined it. But a successful speech is about more than the initial words on the page, and there are a few more things you can do to help it land.

Here are five more tips for writing and practicing your speech:

1. Structure first, write second

If you start the writing process before organizing your thoughts, you may have to re-order, cut, and scrap the sentences you worked hard on. Save yourself some time by using a speech structure, like the one above, to order your talking points first. This can also help you identify unclear points or moments that disrupt your flow.

2. Do your homework

Data strengthens your argument with a scientific edge. Research your topic with an eye for attention-grabbing statistics, or look for findings you can use to support each point. If you’re pitching a product or service, pull information from company metrics that demonstrate past or potential successes. 

Audience members will likely have questions, so learn all talking points inside and out. If you tell investors that your product will provide 12% returns, for example, come prepared with projections that support that statement.

3. Sound like yourself

Memorable speakers have distinct voices. Think of Martin Luther King Jr’s urgent, inspiring timbre or Oprah’s empathetic, personal tone . Establish your voice — one that aligns with your personality and values — and stick with it. If you’re a motivational speaker, keep your tone upbeat to inspire your audience . If you’re the CEO of a startup, try sounding assured but approachable. 

4. Practice

As you practice a speech, you become more confident , gain a better handle on the material, and learn the outline so well that unexpected questions are less likely to trip you up. Practice in front of a colleague or friend for honest feedback about what you could change, and speak in front of the mirror to tweak your nonverbal communication and body language .

5. Remember to breathe

When you’re stressed, you breathe more rapidly . It can be challenging to talk normally when you can’t regulate your breath. Before your presentation, try some mindful breathing exercises so that when the day comes, you already have strategies that will calm you down and remain present . This can also help you control your voice and avoid speaking too quickly.

How to ghostwrite a great speech for someone else

Ghostwriting a speech requires a unique set of skills, as you're essentially writing a piece that will be delivered by someone else. Here are some tips on how to effectively ghostwrite a speech:

• Understand the speaker's voice and style : Begin by thoroughly understanding the speaker's personality, speaking style, and preferences. This includes their tone, humor, and any personal anecdotes they may want to include.
• Interview the speaker : Have a detailed conversation with the speaker to gather information about their speech's purpose, target audience, key messages, and any specific points they want to emphasize. Ask for personal stories or examples they may want to include.
• Research thoroughly : Research the topic to ensure you have a strong foundation of knowledge. This helps you craft a well-informed and credible speech.
• Create an outline : Develop a clear outline that includes the introduction, main points, supporting evidence, and a conclusion. Share this outline with the speaker for their input and approval.
• Write in the speaker's voice : While crafting the speech, maintain the speaker's voice and style. Use language and phrasing that feel natural to them. If they have a particular way of expressing ideas, incorporate that into the speech.
• Craft a captivating opening : Begin the speech with a compelling opening that grabs the audience's attention. This could be a relevant quote, an interesting fact, a personal anecdote, or a thought-provoking question.
• Organize content logically : Ensure the speech flows logically, with each point building on the previous one. Use transitions to guide the audience from one idea to the next smoothly.
• Incorporate engaging stories and examples : Include anecdotes, stories, and real-life examples that illustrate key points and make the speech relatable and memorable.
• Edit and revise : Edit the speech carefully for clarity, grammar, and coherence. Ensure the speech is the right length and aligns with the speaker's time constraints.
• Seek feedback : Share drafts of the speech with the speaker for their feedback and revisions. They may have specific changes or additions they'd like to make.
• Practice delivery : If possible, work with the speaker on their delivery. Practice the speech together, allowing the speaker to become familiar with the content and your writing style.
• Maintain confidentiality : As a ghostwriter, it's essential to respect the confidentiality and anonymity of the work. Do not disclose that you wrote the speech unless you have the speaker's permission to do so.
• Be flexible : Be open to making changes and revisions as per the speaker's preferences. Your goal is to make them look good and effectively convey their message.
• Meet deadlines : Stick to agreed-upon deadlines for drafts and revisions. Punctuality and reliability are essential in ghostwriting.
• Provide support : Support the speaker during their preparation and rehearsal process. This can include helping with cue cards, speech notes, or any other materials they need.

Remember that successful ghostwriting is about capturing the essence of the speaker while delivering a well-structured and engaging speech. Collaboration, communication, and adaptability are key to achieving this.

Give your best speech yet

Learn how to make a speech that’ll hold an audience’s attention by structuring your thoughts and practicing frequently. Put the effort into writing and preparing your content, and aim to improve your breathing, eye contact , and body language as you practice. The more you work on your speech, the more confident you’ll become.

The energy you invest in writing an effective speech will help your audience remember and connect to every concept. Remember: some life-changing philosophies have come from good speeches, so give your words a chance to resonate with others. You might even change their thinking.

Boost your speech skills

Enhance your public speaking with personalized coaching tailored to your needs

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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The New Definition of Awesomeness

How to Write a Passion Speech Like an Experienced Pro

They say, “Speak from the heart, and the words will follow.” But when it comes to delivering a powerful speech, passion alone may not be enough.

You need to know how to articulate your emotions effectively and captivate your audience with your words. Whether you’re giving a speech at a conference, a wedding, or a protest rally, mastering the art of a passionate speech is an invaluable skill.

If you want to learn how to deliver a speech that moves people, you’ve come to the right place.

In this post, I’ll give you insider tips and tricks that experienced professionals use to craft a compelling and inspiring speech.

You’ll learn how to structure your speech, choose the right words, and use your body language to enhance your message’s impact.

With these practical guidelines and your unique experiences, you can create a speech that resonates with your audience and inspires them to action.

Don’t settle for an ordinary speech. Let’s plunge into the secrets of delivering a passionate speech like a pro and make your next public speaking engagement one to remember.

Understanding Your Audience

As the famous adage goes, “Know thy audience.” Understanding your audience is one of the critical components of crafting a passionate speech that resonates with your listeners.

Your speech’s success hinges on your ability to tailor your message to the audience’s needs, interests, and expectations.

To start, research your audience beforehand to gain insight into their demographics, values, and preferences.

Are they young professionals, seasoned executives, or a mix of both? Are they familiar with the topic, or is it entirely new to them?

Answering these questions can help you tailor your message and language to their level of understanding and ensure that you connect with them on a personal level.

Consider the setting and occasion of your speech. A speech delivered at a wedding will have a different tone and approach than one delivered at a business conference.

Adjust your message to suit the occasion and ensure that it aligns with the audience’s expectations.

Also, consider the emotional state of your audience. Are they attending the event with high energy and excitement, or are they in a sombre mood?

Use this understanding to structure your speech and deliver your message in a way that resonates with their current state of mind.

Anticipate any questions or objections your audience may have and address them in your speech.

This shows that you understand their perspective and are willing to engage in a conversation with them.

By understanding your audience’s needs, interests, and expectations, you can tailor your message and connect with them on a personal level.

With this foundation, you can craft a passionate speech that resonates with your audience and inspires them to take action.

Next, let’s move on to the next subtopic, “Crafting a powerful message.”

Crafting A Powerful Message

Crafting a powerful message is essential in delivering a passionate speech that resonates with your audience.

To achieve this, you need to start by understanding your audience’s needs and preferences.

Your message should be tailored to address their pain points and offer solutions that meet their expectations.

It’s crucial to use strong, impactful words that evoke emotions and create a connection with your audience. Use metaphors and analogies that your audience can relate to and remember.

Ensure your message is simple and easy to understand, avoiding complex jargon and technical terms that may confuse or alienate your audience.

To craft a powerful message, you need to identify your main points and ensure they are structured in a logical and coherent manner.

Begin with a strong opening that captures your audience’s attention and motivates them to listen.

Follow up with supporting points that build on your opening statement, and end with a strong closing that summarizes your message and leaves a lasting impression.

Stay authentic and genuine throughout your speech. Speak from the heart and let your passion and enthusiasm shine through.

Your audience will be able to tell if you’re not genuine, and it will diminish the impact of your message.

Crafting a powerful message is an essential step in delivering a passionate speech that resonates with your audience.

By understanding your audience’s needs, using impactful words, and structuring your message in a clear and coherent manner, you can create a speech that motivates and inspires.

In the next section, I’ll look at how to develop a clear structure for your speech.

Developing A Clear Structure

When it comes to writing a passionate speech, it’s not just about having a powerful message.

You also need to structure your speech in a way that makes it easy for your audience to follow along and stay engaged.

A clear structure can help you convey your message more effectively, and keep your audience’s attention from start to finish.

The first step in developing a clear structure for your speech is to determine the main points you want to make.

Start by identifying the key themes or messages you want to convey, and then organize them in a logical order that flows smoothly.

You may want to use an outline or mind map to help you visualize the structure of your speech.

Once you have your main points organized, develop an introduction that grabs your audience’s attention and sets the tone for the rest of your speech.

Your introduction should be engaging, concise, and clearly outline what your speech is about.

From there, you can move on to the body of your speech, where you will elaborate on your main points and provide evidence to support your arguments.

Make sure to use examples and anecdotes to make your message more relatable and memorable.

Finally, your conclusion should be a strong summary of your message, leaving your audience with a clear understanding of what you want them to take away from your speech.

It’s also a good idea to end on a memorable note, whether that’s a call to action, a quote, or a powerful statement.

By following these steps, you can create a clear and effective structure for your passion speech, making it easier for your audience to connect with your message and stay engaged throughout.

Choosing The Right Words And Tone

Choosing the right words and tone is essential in creating a passionate speech that captivates your audience.

It’s not just about what you say, but how you say it that can make all the difference.

By selecting the right words and tone, you can evoke emotions and create a connection with your listeners.

Your word choice should be deliberate, and you must consider your audience and your message’s context.

Think about what words will resonate with your listeners and convey your ideas effectively.

Avoid jargon or technical terms that may not be understood by everyone in the audience. Instead, use everyday language that is simple and straightforward.

The tone of your speech is also important. It sets the mood for your entire speech and can determine whether your listeners are engaged or bored.

A positive, enthusiastic tone can be infectious, and your listeners will feel your passion for the subject. Conversely, a dull or negative tone can quickly disengage your audience.

Don’t be afraid to inject humor or personal anecdotes to keep your speech lively and engaging. Keep it appropriate to the occasion and audience.

Your choice of words and tone is crucial in creating a passionate speech that resonates with your audience.

By being intentional and considering your listeners, you can create a powerful connection and leave a lasting impact.

Next, let’s explore how you can use body language and vocal delivery to enhance your speech’s impact.

Using Body Language And Vocal Delivery To Enhance Impact

When it comes to delivering a passionate speech, words alone may not be enough to create a lasting impact.

That’s why incorporating body language and vocal delivery can help enhance the message you’re trying to convey.

By using your body language, you can communicate a range of emotions and emphasize important points.

This includes gestures such as pointing, nodding, and using facial expressions to convey your feelings.

Also, adjusting your tone, volume, and pace of speech can also help to add emphasis and create a more engaging speech.

Keep in mind that body language and vocal delivery should be used intentionally and in a way that complements your message.

For example, if you’re talking about a serious issue, maintaining good eye contact and speaking with a serious tone can help to emphasize the importance of the topic.

Conversely, if you’re discussing something lighthearted, incorporating humor and using more animated gestures can help to create a more relaxed atmosphere.

Practice your body language and vocal delivery beforehand. Rehearsing in front of a mirror or with a friend can help you to become more aware of your body language and how it can be improved.

By using body language and vocal delivery, you can help to create a more engaging and impactful passionate speech.

Use them intentionally and in a way that complements your message, and practice beforehand to ensure that your delivery is polished.

Next, let’s discuss the importance of incorporating personal anecdotes and stories to help create a more relatable and memorable speech.

Incorporating Personal Anecdotes And Stories

Incorporating personal anecdotes and stories is a powerful way to connect with your audience and make your passion speech more relatable.

By sharing your own experiences, you can create a stronger emotional impact and make your message more memorable.

Think about the experiences in your life that relate to your passion speech and can help illustrate your point.

Whether it’s a personal triumph, a difficult challenge, or a funny anecdote, sharing it with your audience can help them connect with you and better understand your message.

When incorporating personal anecdotes and stories, keep your audience in mind. Make sure your story is relevant to your speech and will resonate with your audience.

Consider the tone and message of your story and how it fits into the overall structure of your speech.

Keep your personal anecdotes and stories concise and focused. Avoid going off on tangents or sharing irrelevant details. The goal is to enhance your message, not distract from it.

By incorporating personal anecdotes and stories into your passion speech, you can create a more engaging and memorable experience for your audience.

It’s a powerful way to connect with them on a deeper level and make your message truly resonate.

As you move forward, keep in mind the importance of practising and rehearsing for optimal delivery. By honing your skills and perfecting your message, you can deliver a truly unforgettable passionate speech.

Practising And Rehearsing For Optimal Delivery

Practice makes perfect, and that applies to delivering a great speech too!

You’ve put in the effort to write a passionate speech that will inspire and motivate your audience, but now it’s time to rehearse it for optimal delivery.

Practising your speech helps you to become more familiar with the content and to feel more confident in delivering it.

Start by reading your speech out loud to yourself or a trusted friend, and take note of any areas that need improvement.

Practice your speech in front of a mirror to work on your body language and facial expressions, and make sure to time yourself to ensure that you’re within the allotted time frame.

As you rehearse, focus on your tone, pace, and volume. Use pauses to emphasize important points and give your audience time to reflect on what you’ve said. Breathe and take your time – rushing through your speech will only detract from its impact.

Another useful tip is to record yourself delivering the speech and play it back, taking note of any areas that need improvement.

Finally, practice your speech in front of a small audience of family or friends to get feedback and adjust accordingly.

Rehearsing your speech helps you to be prepared for any unexpected hiccups that may arise during the actual delivery, ensuring that you can handle them with ease.

So, take the time to practice and rehearse your speech, and you’ll be sure to deliver it with confidence and impact.

Now that you’ve got your speech down pat, let’s move on to the next step – connecting emotionally with your audience.

Connecting Emotionally With Your Audience

You’ve put in the time and effort to craft a compelling speech that is packed with personal anecdotes and delivered with precision.

But if you want to take your speech to the next level, you need to connect with your audience on an emotional level.

One way to do this is by speaking directly to your audience’s emotions and values.

Whether you’re speaking to a group of business professionals or a room full of students, you need to identify what your audience cares about and use that to your advantage.

Another way to connect emotionally is through storytelling. By sharing personal stories that highlight your own struggles and successes, you can help your audience relate to you and feel inspired by your journey.

Finally, connecting emotionally with your audience requires you to be vulnerable and authentic.

Don’t be afraid to share your true feelings and beliefs, even if they’re not popular or mainstream. When you show your audience who you truly are, you give them permission to connect with you on a deeper level.

Incorporating these techniques into your speech can help you connect with your audience in a meaningful way and leave a lasting impression.

By speaking to your audience’s emotions, sharing personal stories, and being authentic, you can inspire and motivate your listeners to take action and make a positive change in their lives.

Embracing Your Passion And Authenticity

You’ve done the research, written a killer speech, and practised it to perfection. But to truly deliver a passion-filled speech like a pro, you need to embrace your authenticity and let your passion shine through.

Your audience wants to connect with a real person, not a rehearsed robot. Don’t be afraid to inject your own personality and flair into your speech.

Share your personal anecdotes, experiences, and thoughts on the topic at hand. This will help you connect with your audience on a deeper level and make your speech more memorable.

Being authentic doesn’t mean being perfect. In fact, imperfections and vulnerabilities can help humanize you and make you more relatable to your audience.

Embrace your quirks and unique perspectives, and don’t worry about trying to be someone you’re not.

Another way to show your authenticity is to speak from the heart. Don’t be afraid to show your passion and enthusiasm for the topic.

Your energy and excitement will be infectious, and it will help keep your audience engaged and interested.

By embracing your authenticity and letting your passion shine through, you’ll be able to deliver a speech that not only connects with your audience but leaves a lasting impression.

So go ahead and be yourself, and don’t be afraid to let your passion and personality shine.

In the next subtopic, I’ll discuss how to leave a lasting impression and motivate your audience to take action.

Leaving A Lasting Impression And Call To Action

Crafting a compelling speech is one thing, but leaving a lasting impression on your audience and spurring them into action is another.

As an experienced pro, you know that a powerful conclusion is key to achieving this. It’s your chance to summarize your main points, reiterate your passion, and make a call to action that motivates your audience to take action.

To make a lasting impression, your conclusion should be memorable and impactful. You want your audience to leave feeling inspired and motivated to make a change.

Whether it’s a call to action to donate to a cause, take action in their community, or simply adopt a new perspective, your words should leave a lasting impression.

To create a strong call to action, make sure it’s specific and actionable. Use language that inspires action and urgency.

Encourage your audience to take the first step towards making a difference, and give them the tools and resources they need to get started.

Your conclusion is your final chance to connect with your audience and leave a lasting impression. It’s your opportunity to inspire them to take action and make a change. So, make it count!

As you wrap up your speech, take a moment to thank your audience for their time and attention. Leave them with a final thought or message that summarizes your passion and mission.

And most importantly, remind them of the impact they can have when they take action and embrace their own passions and authenticity.

You’ve reached the end of our post on how to write a passionate speech like an experienced pro!

We hope you’ve found these tips helpful in crafting a powerful and impactful speech that connects with your audience and inspires them to take action.

Your passion and authenticity are the keys to creating a memorable and effective speech that leaves a lasting impression.

Final Thought

Writing a passionate speech like an experienced pro requires more than just choosing a topic and jotting down ideas.

It involves preparing thoroughly, connecting emotionally with your audience, embracing your authenticity, and leaving a lasting impression with a clear call to action.

With all this in mind, you are now better equipped to write a passionate and engaging speech that will captivate your audience and inspire them to take action.

The key is to speak from the heart, share your story, and connect with your audience on a personal level.

So go out there, take a deep breath, and deliver your speech with confidence, authenticity, and passion.

Published by Seun Oriowo

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How To Write A Speech That Inspires You Audience: 13 Steps

Learn how to write a speech that will effectively reach your audience.

A good speech is a powerful tool. Effective speeches make people powerful, whether in the hands of a world leader trying to get people to believe their ideology or in the mouth of a teacher trying to inspire students. A well-written speech can lift the hearts of a nation in times of war, inspire people to action when complacency is commonplace, honor someone who has died, and even change a nation’s mind on a particular topic, which, in turn, can change history.

Excellent speech writing is a skill that you must learn. While public speaking may come naturally to some people, the sentence structure and nuances of a powerful speech are something you must learn if you are going to gain the audience’s attention.

So how can you learn how to write a speech? The writing process is a little different than the process you’d use to write a paper or essay, so here is a guide that can help.

Materials Needed

Step 1: define your purpose, step 2: determine your audience, step 3: start your research, step 4: choose the right length, step 5: create an outline, step 6: craft the introduction, step 7: write the body, step 8: use transitions, step 9: conclude your speech, step 10: add some spice, step 11. implement spoken language, step 12: edit your speech, step 13: read it out.

• Research materials
• Audience demographic information

Before you can write a speech, you must know the purpose of your speech. You can deliver many types of speeches, and the purpose will determine which one you are giving. While there may be more than these, here are some common types of speeches:

• Informative speech: An informative speech strives to educate the audience on a topic or message. This is the type of speech a teacher gives when delivering a lecture. “ First World Problems ” by Sarah Kwon is an excellent example of an informative speech.
• Entertaining speech: This speech strives to amuse the audience. These are typically short speeches with funny, personal stories woven in. A wedding guest giving a speech at a wedding may be an example of this type of speech.
• Demonstrative speech: This speech demonstrates how to do something to the audience. A company showing how to use a product is delivering this type of speech.
• Persuasive speech: This speech aims to persuade the audience of your particular opinion. Political speeches are commonly persuasive. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s famous “ I Have a Dream ” speech is an example of a persuasive speech, as it called the government to make changes that protected civil and economic rights.
• Oratorical speech: An oratory is a formal speech at an event like a funeral or graduation. The goal is to express an opinion and inspire the audience, but not necessarily to persuade.
• Motivational speech: These speeches inspire people to take action, such as to improve themselves or to feel better and happier. For example, a coach may deliver this kind of speech to his players during halftime to inspire them to win the game. Steve Jobs’ 2005 Stanford Commencement Address is an excellent example of a motivational speech.
• Eulogy: A Eulogy is a funeral speech. This speech is given to the mourners at someone’s funeral and talks about the excellent character rates of the person who died. “ Eulogy for Rosa Parks ” is a famous example of this type of speech given by Oprah Winfrey in 2015.
• Explanatory speech: This final speech type describes a situation or item. These speeches often have step-by-step instructions on how to do a particular thing.

Your audience members are an essential part of the speech writing process. Consider taking notes about your audience before you start writing your speech. You can even make a fake audience member you are writing toward as you prepare your speech. Even though they do not directly impact what you talk about, they should impact how you talk about it. Therefore, you must write your speech to reach that particular audience.

For example, if you are writing a speech for an audience that does not agree with you, you will need to bring more facts and figures to persuade them of your opinion. On the other hand, if you are writing a speech for an audience already on your side, you must encourage them to hold the line. To get to know your audience, consider factors like:

• Income level
• Pain points
• Questions they might ask

Before you outline or write your speech, you must know some facts about the big idea or speech topic. So perform some research, and take notes. See if you can find any new or surprising information in your research. If it was new and surprising, it also might be to your audience members. You can use this research to make the essential points of your piece.

Finally, know the required length of your speech. Speeches usually have time limits, not word count limits. You will need to know the desired length before you can start writing the speech, or you will end up with a speech that is too long or too short. The length of your speech will vary depending on where you are giving it and who your audience is.

Generally, a 20-minute speech is standard when delivering a speech to adults in a professional or academic setting. However, if you are a student who is preparing a speech for a classroom, you may be limited to three to five minutes. Sometimes speakers will get booked to take on a 60-minute session, but if you talk for 60 minutes, you will lose the attention of some of your audience members.

Remember, some of the most famous speeches in history are very short. President Abraham Lincoln’s “ Gettysburg Address ” was less than 300 words long and took less than two minutes to deliver. President Franklin Roosevelt’s “ Day of Infamy ” speech lasted less than 10 minutes. However, knowing your speech’s length can be challenging after you prepare it. Generally, a double-spaced page of writing will take about 90 seconds to speak. Thus, a 20-minute speech will take about 13 typed, double-spaced pages if you type out your entire speech.

Consider using a words-to-minutes calculator to determine how long your speech likely is. Remember that the average English speaker speaks 140 words a minute. You may get up to 170 words a minute if you speak fast. If your speech is slow, it may be as little as 110 words a minute.

Now you are ready to start writing. Before you write a speech, you must create an outline. Some public speakers will speak from an outline alone, while others will write their speech word-for-word. Both strategies can lead to a successful speech, but both also start with an outline. Your speech’s outline will follow this template:

• Introduction: Introduces your main idea and hooks the reader’s attention.
• Body: Covers two to three main points with transitions.
• Conclusion: Summarizes the speech’s points and drive home your main message.

As you fill in these areas, answer these questions: Who? What? Why? and How? This will ensure you cover all the essential elements your listeners need to hear to understand your topic. Next, make your outline as detailed as you can. Organize your research into points and subpoints. The more detail on your outline, the easier it will be to write the speech and deliver it confidently.

As you prepare your speech, your introduction is where you should spend the most time and think. You only have moments to capture your audience’s attention or see them zone out in front of you. However, if you do it right, you will cause them to turn to you for more information on the topic. In other words, the introduction to a speech may be the most memorable part, so it deserves your attention. Therefore, you must have three main parts:

• Hook: The hook is a rhetorical question, funny story, personal anecdote, or shocking statistic that grabs the listener’s attention and shows them why your speech is worth listening to.
• Thesis: This is your main idea or clear point.
• Road map: You will want to preview your speech outline in the introduction.

Here is an example of a good introduction for a persuasive speech from Jamie Oliver’s TED Talk about children and food:

“Sadly, in the next 18 minutes when I do our chat, four Americans that are alive will be dead from the food that they eat.”

This shocking statistic gets the audience’s attention immediately. In his speech, Oliver details why America’s food choices are so poor, how it affects them, and how we can teach children to do better.

Here is an example of an informative speech about pollution and what can be done about it. This introduction follows the template perfectly.

“I want you to close your eyes for a minute and picture a beautiful oceanfront. The sound of the waves crashing on the sand while seagulls fly overhead. Do you have it? Now I am going to say one word that will destroy that image: Pollution. What changed in your mental picture? Do you now see sea turtles with bottles on their head or piles of debris washing on shore? Marine pollution is a massive problem because plastic does not decompose. Not only does it use up many resources to create, but it rarely gets disposed of properly. We must protect our natural areas, like that beautiful beach. Today I am going to show you how destructive the effects of plastic can be, how it is managing our natural resources, and what steps we can take to improve the situation.”

Now you are ready to write the body of your speech. Draw from your research and flesh out the points stated in your introduction. As you create your body, use short sentences. People can’t listen as long as they can read, so short and sweet sentences are most effective. Continuing the theme of the marine pollution speech, consider this body paragraph.

“You might be thinking plastic isn’t a big deal. Let’s think for a minute that you’re at the beach drinking bottled water. According to “The Problem with Plastic,” an article by Hannah Elisbury, one out of every six plastic water bottles ends up in recycling. The rest become landfill fodder. Worse, many get dropped in nature. Perhaps you are packing up at the end of your beach trip and forget to grab your bottle. Maybe your kid is buried in the sand. Now it’s adding pollutants to the water. That water becomes part of the drinking water supply. It also becomes part of the fish you eat at your favorite seafood restaurant. Just one bottle has big consequences.”

As you write the body, don’t stress making every word perfect. You will revise it later. The main goal is to get your ideas on paper or screen. This body paragraph is effective for two reasons. First, the audience members likely use water bottles, which resonates with them. Second, she uses a resource and names it, which gives your work authority.

It would be best to use transitions to move from each speech section. This keeps the audience engaged and interested. In addition, the transitions should naturally merge into the next section of the speech without abruptness. To transition between points or ideas, use transition words. Some examples include:

• Coupled with
• Following this
• Additionally
• Comparatively
• Correspondingly
• Identically
• In contrast
• For example

You can also use sequence words, like first, second, third, etc., to give the idea of transition from one thought to the next. Make sure your speech has several transition words to drive it through to completion and to keep the audience engaged.

In his speech “ Their Finest Hour ,” Winston Churchill uses transitions well. Here is an excerpt from his conclusion:

“ But if we fail, then the whole world, including the United States, including all that we have known and cared for, will sink into the abyss of a new Dark Age made more sinister, perhaps more protracted, by the lights of perverted science. Therefore, let us brace ourselves to our duties and bear ourselves that, if the British Empire and its Commonwealth last for a thousand years, men will still say, “This was their finest hour.”

Notice that he uses “therefore,” “so,” and “but.” Each of these transition words effectively moves the speech along.

Your conclusion needs to restate your thesis but differently. It should personalize the speech to the audience, restate your main points and state any key takeaways. Finally, it should leave the audience with a thought to ponder.

Here are some practical ways to end a speech:

• Use a story
• Read a poem
• State an inspirational quote
• Summarize the main points
• Deliver a call to action

Here are some examples of fantastic conclusions:

• Here is an excellent example of a concluding statement for an inspirational graduation speech: “As you graduate, you will face great challenges, but you will also have great opportunities. By embracing all that you have learned here, you will meet them head-on. The best is yet to come!”
• A CEO that is trying to inspire his workforce might conclude a speech like this: “While the past year had challenges and difficulties, I saw you work through them and come out ahead. As we move into the next year, I am confident we will continue to excel. Let’s join hands, and together this can be the best year in company history!”
• In “T he Speech to Go to the Moon, ” President Kennedy concluded this way: “ Many years ago the great British explorer George Mallory, who was to die on Mount Everest, was asked why did he want to climb it. He said, “Because it is there. Well, space is there, and we’re going to climb it, and the moon and the planets are there, and new hopes for knowledge and peace are there. And, therefore, as we set sail we ask God’s blessing on the most hazardous and dangerous and greatest adventure on which man has ever embarked.” Many speechwriters say something like “in conclusion” or “that’s all I have for you today.” This is not necessary. Saying “in conclusion” could cause your audience to stop listening as they anticipate the end of the speech, and stating that you have said all you need to say is just unnecessary.

Now that you have the basic structure, you’re ready to add some spice to your speech. Remember, you aren’t reading a research essay. Instead, you are making an exciting and engaging spoken presentation. Here are some ideas:

• Consider giving your speech some rhythm. For example, change the wording, so it has a pace and cadence.
• Work to remove a passive voice from your sentences where possible. Active speaking is more powerful than passive.
• Use rhetorical questions throughout because they make the listener stop and think for a moment about what you are saying.
• Weave some quotes into your speech. Pulling famous words from other people will make your speech more interesting.
• Where possible, use personal stories. This helps your audience engage with you as the speaker while keeping the speech interesting.

You may not use all of these ideas in your speech, but find some that will work for the type of speech you plan to give. They will make it more exciting and help keep listeners engaged in what you are saying.

Writing a speech is not like writing a paper. While you want to sound educated with proper grammar , you need to write in the way you speak. For many people, this is much different from the way they write. Not only will you use short sentences, but you will also use:

• Familiar vocabulary: This is not the time to start adding scientific terminology to the mix or jargon for your industry that the audience won’t understand. Use familiar vocabulary.
• Transitions: Already discussed, but spoken language uses many transition words. Your speech should, too.
• Personal pronouns: “You” and “I” are acceptable in a speech but not in academic writing.
• Colloquialisms: Colloquialisms are perfectly acceptable in a speech, provided the audience would readily understand them.
• Contractions: We use contractions when we speak, so we also use them in speeches, while some writing platforms and assignments do not allow them.
• Repetition: Repeating words and phrases makes them memorable. This helps emphasize the main ideas and works well in speeches.

Now you are ready to edit your speech. Remember, spoken language is acceptable, but grammar errors may not be ideal. As you edit, pay attention to the length of sentences. Shorten any long ones. Also, watch for those transition words. Add them in if you need to. Remember, a well-written speech takes time. Put in the effort to revise and improve it, and you will be rewarded with an effective speech that is easy to deliver. If you still need help, our guide to grammar and syntax explains more.

Now that you have written your speech, you are ready to read it. Read it out loud at your average speaking speed, and time yourself. This will tell you if you are within your allotted time limit. However, reading it has another benefit. When you read the piece, you can determine if it flows smoothly. You may catch grammar issues or poor transitions that you can change. Look for places where the speech may be hard to speak and adjust those sentences to make them more accessible.

After you update the speech, practice it again. Reading it, revising it, rereading it, and repeating it will help you create a speech that flows well. This process will also help you become familiar with the speech so you can deliver it confidently when your speaking engagement comes.

Looking for inspiration? Read our round-up of argumentative essays !

Nicole Harms has been writing professionally since 2006. She specializes in education content and real estate writing but enjoys a wide gamut of topics. Her goal is to connect with the reader in an engaging, but informative way. Her work has been featured on USA Today, and she ghostwrites for many high-profile companies. As a former teacher, she is passionate about both research and grammar, giving her clients the quality they demand in today's online marketing world.

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How to Start a Speech: 7 Tips and Examples for a Captivating Opening

By Status.net Editorial Team on December 12, 2023 — 10 minutes to read

1. Choosing the Right Opening Line

Finding the perfect opening line for your speech is important in grabbing your audience’s attention. A strong opening line sets the stage for the points you want to make and helps you establish a connection with your listeners.

1. Start with a question

Engage your audience from the very beginning by asking them a thought-provoking question related to your topic. This approach encourages them to think, and it can create a sense of anticipation about what’s coming next.

• “Have you ever wondered how much time we spend on our phones every day?”

2. Share a personal story

A relatable personal story can create an emotional connection with your audience. Make sure your story is short, relevant to your speech, and ends with a clear point.

• “When I was a child, my grandmother used to tell me that every kind deed we do plants a seed of goodness in the world. It was this philosophy that inspired me to start volunteering.”

3. Use a quote or a statistic

Incorporate a powerful quote or an intriguing statistic at the outset of your speech to engage your audience and provide context for your topic.

• “As the great Maya Angelou once said, ‘People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.'”

4. Make them laugh

Injecting a little humor into your opening line puts everyone at ease and makes your speech more memorable. Just make sure your joke is relevant and doesn’t offend your audience.

• “They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away, but if the doctor is cute, forget the fruit!”

5. Paint a mental picture

Draw your audience in by describing a vivid scene or painting an illustration in their minds. This creates an immersive experience that makes it easier for your audience to follow your speech.

• “Picture this: you’re walking down the beach, and you look out on the horizon. The sun is setting, and the sky is a breathtaking canvas of reds, oranges, and pinks.”

2. Using a Personal Story

Sharing a personal story can be a highly effective way to engage your audience from the very beginning of your speech. When you open your talk with a powerful, relatable story, it helps create an emotional connection with your listeners, making them more invested in what you have to say.

Think about an experience from your life that is relevant to the topic of your speech. Your story doesn’t have to be grand or dramatic, but it should be clear and vivid. Include enough detail to paint a picture in your audience’s minds, but keep it concise and on point.

The key to successfully using a personal story is to make it relatable. Choose a situation that your audience can empathize with or easily understand. For example, if you’re giving a speech about overcoming adversity, you could talk about a time where you faced a seemingly insurmountable challenge and overcame it.

Make sure to connect your story to the main point or theme of your speech. After sharing your experience, explain how it relates to the topic at hand, and let your audience see the relevance to their own lives. This will make your speech more impactful and show your listeners why your personal story holds meaning.

3. Making a Shocking Statement

Starting your speech with a shocking statement can instantly grab your audience’s attention. This technique works especially well when your speech topic relates to a hot-button issue or a controversial subject. Just make sure that the statement is relevant and true, as false claims may damage your credibility.

For example, “Believe it or not, 90% of startups fail during their first five years in the market.” This statement might surprise your listeners and make them more receptive to your ideas on how to avoid pitfalls and foster a successful business.

So next time you’re crafting a speech, consider opening with a powerful shocking statement. It could be just the thing to get your audience sitting up and paying full attention. (Try to keep your shocking statement relevant to your speech topic and factual to enhance your credibility.)

4. Using Humor

Humor can be an excellent way to break the ice and grab your audience’s attention. Opening your speech with a funny story or a joke can make a memorable first impression. Just be sure to keep it relevant to your topic and audience.

A good joke can set a light-hearted tone, lead into the importance of effective time management, and get your audience engaged from the start.

When using humor in your speech, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Be relatable: Choose a story or joke that your audience can easily relate to. It will be more engaging and connect your listeners to your message.
• Keep it appropriate: Make sure the humor fits the occasion and audience. Stay away from controversial topics and avoid offending any particular group.
• Practice your delivery: Timing and delivery are essential when telling a joke. Practice saying it out loud and adjust your pacing and tone of voice to ensure your audience gets the joke.
• Go with the flow: If your joke flops or doesn’t get the reaction you were hoping for, don’t panic or apologize. Simply move on to the next part of your speech smoothly, and don’t let it shake your confidence.
• Don’t overdo it: While humor can be useful in capturing your audience’s attention, remember that you’re not a stand-up comedian. Use it sparingly and focus on getting your message across clearly and effectively.

5. Incorporating a Quote

When you want to start your speech with a powerful quote, ensure that the quote is relevant to your topic. Choose a quote from a credible source, such as a famous historical figure, a well-known author, or a respected expert in your field. This will not only grab your audience’s attention but also establish your speech’s credibility.

For example, if you’re giving a speech about resilience, you might use this quote by Nelson Mandela: “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”

Once you’ve found the perfect quote, integrate it smoothly into your speech’s introduction. You can briefly introduce the source of the quote, providing context for why their words are significant. For example:

Nelson Mandela, an inspirational leader known for his perseverance, once said: “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”

When you’re incorporating a quote in your speech, practice your delivery to ensure it has the intended impact. Focus on your tone, pace, and pronunciation. By doing so, you can convey the quote’s meaning effectively and connect with your audience emotionally.

Connect the quote to your main points by briefly explaining how it relates to the subject matter of your speech. By creating a natural transition from the quote to your topic, you can maintain your audience’s interest and set the stage for a compelling speech.

In our resilience example, this could look like:

“This quote by Mandela beautifully illustrates the power of resilience. Today, I want to share with you some stories of remarkable individuals who, like Mandela, overcame obstacles and rose every time they fell. Through their experiences, we might learn how to cultivate our own resilience and make the most of life’s challenges.”

6. Starting with a Question

Opening your speech with a question can be a great way to engage your audience from the start. This strategy encourages your listeners to think and become active participants in your presentation. Your opening question should be related to your core message, sparking their curiosity, and setting the stage for the following content. Here are a few examples:

• For a motivational speech : “Have you ever wondered what you would do if you couldn’t fail?”
• For a business presentation : “What’s the biggest challenge your team faces daily, and how can we overcome it?”
• For an educational talk : “How does the way we use technology today impact the future of our society?”

When choosing the right starting question, consider your audience. You want to ask something that is relevant to their experiences and interests. The question should be interesting enough to draw their attention and resonate with their emotions. For instance, if you’re presenting to a group of entrepreneurs, gear your question towards entrepreneurship, and so on.

To boost your question’s impact, consider using rhetorical questions. These don’t require a verbal response, but get your audience thinking about their experiences or opinions. Here’s an example:

• For an environmental speech : “What kind of world do we want to leave for our children?”

After posing your question, take a moment to let it sink in, and gauge the audience’s reaction. You can also use a brief pause to give the listeners time to think about their answers before moving on with your speech.

7. Acknowledging the Occasion

When starting a speech, you can acknowledge the occasion that brought everyone together. This helps create a connection with your audience and sets the stage for the rest of your speech. Make sure to mention the event name, its purpose, and any relevant individuals or groups you would like to thank for organizing it. For example:

“Hello everyone, and welcome to the 10th annual Charity Gala Dinner. I’m truly grateful to the fundraising committee for inviting me to speak tonight.”

After addressing the event itself, include a brief personal touch to show your connection with the topic or the audience. This helps the audience relate to you and gain interest in what you have to say. Here’s an example:

“As a long-time supporter of this cause, I am honored to share my thoughts on how we can continue making a difference in our community.”

Next, give a brief overview of your speech so the audience knows what to expect. This sets the context and helps them follow your points. You could say something like:

“Tonight, I’ll be sharing my experiences volunteering at the local food bank and discussing the impact of your generous donations.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective opening lines for speeches.

A powerful opening line will grab your audience’s attention and set the stage for the rest of your speech. Some effective opening lines include:

• Start with a bold statement: “The world needs your creativity now more than ever.”
• Share a surprising fact: “Did you know that the average person spends (…) years of their life at work?”
• Pose a thought-provoking question: “What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?”
• Tell a short, engaging story: “When I was 10 years old, I discovered my passion for baking in my grandmother’s kitchen.”

Can you provide examples of engaging introductions for speeches?

• Use humor: “As a kid, I believed that 7 pm bedtime was a form of torture. Now, as an adult, I find myself dreaming of 7 pm bedtime.”
• Share a personal experience: “On a trip to Italy, I found myself lost in the winding streets of a small village. It was there, amidst my confusion, that I stumbled upon the best gelato I’d ever tasted.”
• Use an analogy: “Starting a new business is like taking a journey into the unknown. There will be challenges to overcome, and you’ll need resilience, determination, and a strong compass.”

Which speech styles can make a powerful impact on the audience?

Different speech styles will resonate with different audiences. Some styles to consider include:

• Inspirational: Motivate your audience to take action or overcome challenges.
• Storytelling: Share personal experiences or anecdotes to illustrate your points and keep listeners engaged.
• Educational: Provide useful information and insights to help your audience learn or grow.
• Persuasive: Present a compelling argument to convince your audience to adopt a particular perspective or take specific action.

How do successful speakers establish a connection with their listeners?

Establishing a connection with your listeners is key to delivering an impactful speech. Some ways to connect with your audience include:

• Show empathy: Demonstrating understanding and concern for your audience’s feelings and experiences will generate a sense of trust and connection.
• Be relatable: Share personal stories or examples that allow your audience to see themselves in your experiences, thus making your speech more relatable.
• Keep it genuine: Avoid overrehearsing or coming across as scripted. Instead, strive for authenticity and flexibility in your delivery.
• Encourage participation: Engaging your audience through questions, activities, or conversation can help build rapport and make them feel more involved.

What are some techniques for maintaining a friendly and professional tone in speeches?

To maintain a friendly and professional tone in your speeches, consider these tips:

• Balance humor and seriousness: Use humor to lighten the mood and engage your audience, but make sure to also cover the serious points in your speech.
• Speak naturally: Use your everyday vocabulary and avoid jargon or overly formal language when possible.
• Show respect: Acknowledge differing opinions and experiences, and treat your audience with courtesy and fairness.
• Provide useful information: Offer valuable insights and solutions to your audience’s concerns, ensuring they leave your speech feeling more informed and empowered.
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• What is Self Compassion? (Exercises, Methods, Examples)

Why Being a Passionate Public Speaker Matters

What does public speaking with passion mean.

If you could speak about any subject in the world, what would you choose?

Your family? Your most prized possession? An incredible experience you had?

Whatever topic you’d pick, the reason you’d choose it is because you’re passionate about it. It’s something you love to talk about and I’m sure everyone listening would see that.

Passion isn’t something that can be feigned. Either you are passionate about the subject or you’re not. So are you doomed the next time you’re assigned to give a presentation on something you aren’t enthusiastic about? Not necessarily. There are ways to inject passion into your public speaking even when you are less than thrilled with the topic.

Passion = Authenticity + Credibility

John F. Kennedy once said, “The only reason to give a speech is to change the world.” When you believe wholeheartedly in what you are saying, you can’t help but be passionate. You want your audience to know that the topic you’re talking about is important not only to you, but to them, too.

A natural and wonderful by-product of your passion is authenticity, which feeds your credibility with the audience. It doesn’t hurt, either, that a passionate public speaker is more lively and charismatic , and that keeps your audience engaged.

Yes, public speaking with passion has all kinds of benefits that you can only achieve when you genuinely care about the topic. When you’re talking about something you feel strongly about, it doesn’t take a whole lot of effort to be passionate.

Inject Passion Into Your Public Speaking

Over the years, I’ve seen a lot of people mistake being loud and boisterous for being passionate. Raising your voice doesn’t display passion for what you’re saying, it just makes you…loud.

The volume of a person’s voice has no real bearing on how they feel about a subject. Even in a whisper, how you truly feel about something is evident. What matters most is that you feel strongly about what you’re saying.

Remembering this key piece of information will help you find passion in times when you’re called on to give a presentation about something you don’t feel especially enthusiastic about. Think of the most boring activity you do every day (making the bed, putting out the trash, cleaning out your spam folder). It would be a challenge to talk at any length about these things and sound the slightest bit passionate.

Or would it?

Here’s what I always recommend: If you aren’t passionate about the topic, at least tell a story about the topic that you can be passionate about. Find a loophole. Passion is all about making an emotional connection with your audience. It doesn’t matter how you get there, just as long as that’s the endpoint. So when you struggle to inject passion into your public speaking, remember that it’s not always the topic you need to be enthusiastic about. It’s the delivery. It’s the audience. It’s the outcome.

At the very least, be interested and engaged by your topic. If you aren’t, how can you expect your audience to feel any differently?

What are your thoughts on public speaking with passion? Do you agree it’s an important presentation skill? I’d be interested to hear your thoughts and advice for others. Leave a comment below or connect with us through our social media channels. We’re on Facebook , Twitter , Google+ and LinkedIn .

3 thoughts on “Why Being a Passionate Public Speaker Matters”

Passion sells. When I watch presenters without passion it is very hard for me to connect with them and their material. I was at a conference last week with multiple presenters and it was amazing that only one of them stood out from the crowd.

The only way to connect effectively with your audience is passion, passion endears your audience to the very heart of your speech. Passion is a key ingredient to succeed in anything, and public speaking is not excluded. The challenge as a public speaker is to inject passion while delivering on a subject you are uninterested about. The tip shared here sounds promising, I will definitely try them out.

I agree with what you said about how an audience will find a speech more credible and authentic if the speaker is passionate about the topic they’re discussing. My company is accepting interns soon, so we were thinking of getting a youth conference speaker to present about our company. I’ll keep this in mind and consider hiring a motivational speaker for the job.

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Speech about passion [1,2,3,5 minutes], 1 minute speech about passion.

Passion is one of the most important factors in the success of any career. It is not just about the job that you do, but it is also about what you love to do.

Passion can be defined as a feeling of intense enthusiasm and excitement for something.

Importance of Passion

Passion is an important quality that most of us are looking for in a job. It’s the reason why we often look for jobs in our field of interest and not just any job that comes our way.

Many people believe that passion is the only thing that matters when it comes to finding a job. But there are many other factors to consider such as salary, work-life balance, etc., which can also contribute to a fulfilling career.

Role of Passion in Career Building

In today’s competitive world, it is important that people are passionate about their jobs. Passion can be a driving force for success and can help make the difference between a good job and a career.

Passion for your work is not just about the time you put into your career. It’s also about how much you enjoy what you do.

Quotes for Speech about Passion

• “Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you.” – Oprah Winfrey
• “Passion is the genesis of genius.” – Tony Robbins
• “Without passion, you don’t have energy; without energy, you have nothing.” – Donald Trump
• “Passion is the bridge that takes you from pain to change.” – Frida Kahlo
• “Passion is the driving force behind success and happiness.” – Robert T. Kiyosaki
• “If you’re not passionate enough from the start, you’ll never stick it out.” – Steve Jobs
• “Passion is in all great searches and is necessary to all creative endeavors.” – W. Eugene Smith
• “Follow your passion, be prepared to work hard and sacrifice, and, above all, don’t let anyone limit your dreams.” – Donovan Bailey
• “Passion is the key to motivation, and motivation is the key to success.” – Joe Segal
• “Passion is oxygen of the soul.” – Bill Butler

2 Minutes Speech about Passion

Passion is the force that motivates us to do what we love. It is the reason why we wake up every morning and continue to pursue our dreams.

Passion is a feeling that comes from an individual’s unique perspective on life. It helps us find our purpose in life and enables us to achieve more than what we ever thought possible.

Passion is an important factor in a person’s life. It helps them to be motivated and enthusiastic about the work that they are doing. It also helps them to stay focused and not get distracted.

Without passion, people tend to be less productive, more prone to distractions, and less satisfied with their job.

Passion is an essential ingredient in one’s career. It helps them to be more effective and productive at work. This is because passion gives them a strong drive to do their best work.

Passion is a crucial factor in building a career, but it can also be a double-edged sword. If you are passionate about something, you may find it hard to switch to something else without feeling like you are abandoning the first thing that made you happy.

Passion can also make people vulnerable to burnout and take time away from their family and friends.

3 Minutes Speech about Passion

Passion is a driving force that makes us do what we do, keeps us going when things get tough and helps us to move forward.

Passion is what drives our lives and helps us to feel alive. It can be anything from a hobby to an obsession, a job to a career.

Passion can also be defined as the desire for something with such intensity that it consumes our thoughts and actions.

In order to be successful in your career, it is important that you are passionate about what you do. If you are not passionate about what you do, then your work will be more of a job than a career.

Passion is something that cannot be taught. However, there are certain things that can help develop passion for your career. To start with, people should make sure that they find their purpose in life and the things they love to do.

The importance of passion for one’s career can also be seen by the fact that most people who succeed in their careers share similar traits such as being highly motivated and having an opinion on what they do.

Passion is the fuel that powers you to do things that you love and it is what keeps you going. It can also be a career killer if it takes over your life.

Passion can be a career killer because it takes over your life and makes it difficult for you to focus on your professional goals. This can lead to burnout, which may result in an end of your career.

5 Minutes Speech about Passion

People often feel that they are not passionate about what they do. But what if you can get the passion back?

Passion is the driving force of our lives and it is something that we all strive for. Passion fuels our creativity and it helps us to make decisions with confidence. If you are feeling stuck, try finding your passion again by taking a step back and re-evaluating your life. This can be done by asking yourself, “What do I love?”

From the ancient times, humans have been obsessed with what it means to be passionate.

Passion is not a word that people find easy to define. It can be defined as a strong interest in something or someone. Passion can also be described as an intense feeling of enthusiasm for something or someone, which is often accompanied by strong emotions.

Passion is also considered to be a key component of creativity and innovation because it fuels the desire for change and exploration.

Passion is the driving force behind successful people. It is not just about what you do for a living. It’s about how you feel about your work and how it makes you feel.

Passion is the driving force behind successful people, but it can also be a major hindrance to those who are not that passionate. If you are not passionate about your work, then it will be hard for you to put in the effort needed to achieve success in your career.

Passion plays a crucial role in career building. It is the driving force that motivates and drives people to do their best.

Passion fuels our dreams, helps us choose our career paths, and gives us the motivation to take risks. It is important to find your passion because it will help you in achieving your goals and making a difference in this world.

Passion is the driving force that pushes you to explore new opportunities, take risks, and keep going when things get tough. It is a key factor in the career building process.

Without it, we would not be able to produce quality content or develop skills that are in high demand.

Examples of sentences that can be used in starting of this speech

Examples of sentences that can be used in closing of this speech, speeches in english.

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10 Killer Demonstration Speech Ideas to Wow Your Audience

• The Speaker Lab
• May 15, 2024

Table of Contents

No matter whether you’re hitting the books, climbing the corporate ladder, or just keen on boosting your way with words, mastering a killer demonstration speech can really change the game. In this article, we’ll introduce you to 10 outstanding demonstration speech topics. Each one is designed not just to impress but also create moments your audience won’t forget anytime soon.

But what exactly is a demonstration speech? Simply put, it’s a type of informative speech that teaches your audience how to do something step by step. From mastering a new skill to understanding a complex process, demonstration speeches are all about breaking things down in an easy-to-follow manner. So, let’s dive in and discover how you can become a demonstration speech pro!

10 Great Demonstration Speech Ideas

If you’re looking for some engaging demonstration speech topics, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re a high school student or a seasoned public speaker, these ideas will get your creative juices flowing. Let’s take a look.

• How to make a perfect cup of coffee
• The art of folding origami
• Mastering the perfect golf swing
• Creating a delicious summer salad
• Tips for taking better photos with your cell phone
• The science behind paper airplanes
• Protecting yourself from identity theft
• Choosing the right running shoes for your feet
• DIY hair dye techniques
• How to complete some basic yoga exercises

Remember, the key to a great demonstration speech is to choose a topic that you’re passionate about and that will engage your audience. Whether you’re demonstrating a practical skill or sharing a fun hobby, your enthusiasm will shine through and make your speech a hit.

So go ahead and pick a topic that speaks to you. With a little creativity and preparation, you’ll be ready to wow your audience and deliver a demonstration speech that’s both informative and entertaining.

What Is a Demonstration Speech?

If you’ve ever watched a TED Talk or attended a conference, chances are you’ve seen a demonstration speech in action. A demonstration speech is a type of informative speech that walks the audience through a process or task, step by step.

The goal? To teach the audience how to do something new, whether it’s making a recipe, using a product, or mastering a skill. Demonstration speeches are all about breaking down complex ideas into easy-to-follow steps, using visual aids like props, charts, and videos to drive the message home.

Benefits of Giving a Demonstration Speech

So why give a demonstration speech? For starters, it’s a fantastic way to share your expertise and help others learn something valuable. But the benefits don’t stop there. Just imagine doing the following:

• Showing the members of your team how to navigate new software
• Teaching students how to perform a procedure, solve a problem or use a piece of equipment
• Highlighting the benefits of using a product for your target audience
• Proving the effectiveness of a procedure or product in comparison to another
• Pitching a sellable good or service for production or investment to company leaders and other decision-makers

Whether you’re in sales, education, or leadership, being able to clearly explain and demonstrate ideas is a valuable skill that can open up new opportunities and help you make a real impact.

How to Give a Demonstration Speech

Ready to dive in? Here are a few tips for giving a killer demonstration speech:

• Choose a topic you’re passionate about and know inside out. Your enthusiasm will be contagious.
• Break the process down into clear, logical steps. Think about what your audience needs to know and in what order.
• Use visual aids to clarify and reinforce your message. Props, images, and videos can make abstract ideas concrete.
• Practice, practice, practice. The more comfortable you are with your material, the more engaging and natural your delivery will be.
• Engage your audience by asking questions, encouraging participation, and leaving time for Q&A. Make it a conversation, not a lecture.

Remember, a great demonstration speech is all about empowering your audience with new knowledge and skills. So don’t just tell them—show them how it’s done.

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Choosing a Demonstration Speech Topic

Now that you know the power of a great demonstration speech, you might be wondering: what should I talk about? The possibilities are endless, but the key is to choose a topic that you’re passionate about and that will resonate with your audience.

Your Interests

First and foremost, your demonstration speech topic should be something you’re genuinely interested in and excited to share with others. After all, if you’re not passionate about the subject, how can you expect your audience to be?

Think about your hobbies, skills, and areas of expertise. What do you love to do in your free time? What are you known for among your friends and family? Chances are, there’s a demonstration speech topic hiding in there somewhere.

Time Constraint

Of course, passion alone isn’t enough. You also need to consider the practical constraints of your speech, like time. How much time do you have to prepare and deliver your demonstration? If you only have a few minutes, you’ll want to choose a topic that can be explained concisely, with a few key steps or takeaways. If you have more time, you can dive deeper into the details and nuances of your subject.

Audience Engagement

Finally, think about what will engage and benefit your audience. What problems are they trying to solve? What skills do they need to learn? In addition, what interests and values do they share?

The best demonstration speech topics are those that are both personally meaningful to you and relevant to your audience. So don’t be afraid to get creative and think outside the box. Whether you’re teaching your coworkers how to use a new software program or showing your friends how to make your famous chili recipe, the key is to choose a topic that you’re excited about and that will leave your audience feeling inspired and empowered.

How to Structure Your Demonstration Speech

You’ve chosen your demonstration speech topic, and you’re ready to start preparing. But how do you even plan a demonstration speech? The key is structure. Structuring your speech is key to delivering a clear, engaging presentation that your audience will remember. Consider the following steps as you outline your speech.

Begin with “Why”

Before you dive into the details of your demonstration, take a moment to explain why your topic matters. What problem does it solve? How will it benefit your audience? By starting with the “why,” you’ll capture your listeners’ attention and make them eager to learn more.

Outline the Process

Once you’ve established the importance of your topic, it’s time to outline the process you’ll be demonstrating. Break it down into clear, logical steps that your audience can follow along with. Use simple language and avoid jargon or technical terms that might confuse your listeners. Alternatively, choose just one or two terms that you can explain briefly without having to go too in-depth.

Progress Through Each Step

As you move through your demonstration, take your time and explain each step thoroughly. Use visual aids like props, diagrams, or slides to help illustrate your points. And don’t be afraid to pause and check in with your audience to make sure they’re following along.

Invite Questions

After you’ve completed your demonstration, open the floor for questions. This is a great opportunity to engage with your audience and clarify any points that may have been unclear. Be prepared to answer questions thoughtfully and provide additional resources if needed.

Summarize and Conclude

Finally, wrap up your speech by summarizing the key points you covered and reiterating the importance of your topic. Leave your audience with a clear call to action, whether it’s to try out the skill you demonstrated or to learn more about the subject.

By following this simple structure, you’ll be well on your way to delivering a polished, effective demonstration speech. Remember to practice, stay focused, and have fun, and your passion and enthusiasm are sure to shine through.

Tips for Delivering an Effective Demonstration Speech

You’ve picked your demonstration speech topic, outlined the key points, and practiced your delivery. However, there are still a few more things you can do to really make your speech shine. Engaging your audience, for instance, and delivering a memorable, impactful presentation are two great ways to really drive your speech home.

Use Visuals to Guide Your Speech

Visual aids are an essential element of any great demonstration speech. They help illustrate your points, break up the monotony of straight talking, and give your audience something to focus on. But don’t just throw together a bunch of random images and call it a day. Your visuals should be carefully chosen to support and enhance your message.

Start by considering what type of visual aid would work best for your topic. Are you demonstrating a step-by-step process? A series of photos or diagrams might be the way to go. Explaining a complex concept? An infographic or chart could help simplify things. Trying to evoke an emotional response? A short video clip might do the trick.

Whatever you choose, make sure your visuals are high-quality, easy to see and understand, and flow logically with your speech. Practice integrating them smoothly into your presentation so they feel like a natural part of your talk, not an awkward interruption.

Engage Your Audience

No one wants to sit through a dry, boring lecture. To keep your audience interested and invested, you need to actively engage them throughout your speech. One simple way to do this is by asking questions. Pose a thought-provoking query at the beginning to get them thinking, or ask for a show of hands to gauge their experience with your topic.

You can also use humor, storytelling, and real-life examples to make your speech more relatable and memorable. Share a funny anecdote about a time you struggled with the task you’re demonstrating, or explain how this skill helped you succeed in a challenging situation. The more your audience can see themselves in your speech, the more engaged they’ll be.

Provide Additional Resources

Your speech is just the beginning. To truly empower your audience to put your teachings into practice, provide them with additional resources they can refer to later. This might include a handout with key takeaways and step-by-step instructions, a list of recommended tools or products, or links to helpful articles or videos.

You can also invite your audience to connect with you after the speech if they have additional questions or want to learn more. Provide your contact information or social media handles, and encourage them to reach out. By offering ongoing support and resources, you show that you’re truly invested in their success.

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Demonstration Speech Topics for Specific Settings

Now that you know how to choose and deliver a great demonstration speech topic, let’s explore some specific ideas for different settings. Whether you’re speaking in a business meeting, a classroom, or a community event, there’s a perfect topic out there for you.

Business Topics

Demonstration speeches are a common fixture in many business settings, from team meetings to industry conferences. These talks tend to focus on practical skills and strategies that can help attendees do their jobs better or advance their careers. Some potential topics include:

• How to use a new software program or tool
• Tips for effective time management and productivity
• Strategies for networking and building professional relationships
• Techniques for delivering persuasive presentations or sales pitches
• Best practices for remote teamwork and communication

When choosing a business-related demonstration speech topic, consider your audience’s needs and goals. What challenges are they facing in their work? What skills or knowledge would help them succeed? By addressing these questions, you can deliver a talk that’s truly valuable and relevant to your listeners.

Health and Fitness Topics

Health and fitness are popular subjects for demonstration speeches, as many people are eager to learn new ways to improve their physical and mental wellbeing. These talks can range from practical how-tos to more inspirational and motivational content. Some ideas to consider:

• Demonstrating proper form for common exercises like squats or push-ups
• Sharing healthy meal prep ideas and recipes
• Teaching stress-reduction techniques like meditation or deep breathing
• Offering tips for staying motivated and consistent with a fitness routine
• Exploring the benefits of alternative therapies like acupuncture or massage

When giving a health or fitness-related speech, it’s important to remember that everyone’s needs and abilities are different. Avoid making blanket statements or promises, and always encourage your audience to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new regimen.

Student-Friendly Topics

Demonstration speeches are a great way for students to practice their public speaking skills while sharing knowledge with their peers. These talks can cover a wide range of subjects, from academic skills to personal hobbies and interests. Here are a few ideas:

• How to create an effective study schedule and stick to it
• Tips for researching and writing a great paper
• Strategies for managing stress and anxiety during exams
• Demonstrating a favorite art or craft project
• Teaching a useful life skill like basic car maintenance or sewing

When choosing a topic for a student demonstration speech, consider what would be most useful and engaging for your classmates. What skills or knowledge do you have that others might benefit from? What topics are currently relevant or interesting to your peer group? By selecting a subject that resonates with your audience, you’ll be more likely to deliver an impactful and memorable speech.

FAQs on Demonstration Speeches

What is a demonstration speech.

A demo speech shows how to do something. It guides the audience through the steps, making complex tasks simple.

What does demonstrate speech mean?

Demonstrate speech means using words and visuals to teach or show how a process works from start to finish.

What can I demonstrate in 5 minutes?

In 5 minutes, you could teach someone basic origami, mix a cocktail, or even change a tire—quick skills work best.

Which of the following is an example of a demonstration speech?

An example would be showing how to prepare your favorite summer salad step by step in front of an audience.

Nailing an impressive demo speech means finding a subject that lights up your crowd, laying out each step in simple terms, and presenting everything with energy and confidence. By following the tips and ideas we’ve explored, you’ll be well on your way to creating a memorable and impactful demonstration speech.

If you’re still feeling nervous, just remember—sharpening your skills takes consistent effort. The more you hone your demonstration speech skills, the more natural and effective your delivery will become. So jump on in, the world’s waiting for what you’ve got to say.

• Last Updated: May 9, 2024

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15 Powerful Speech Opening Lines (And How to Create Your Own)

Hrideep barot.

• Public Speaking , Speech Writing

Powerful speech opening lines set the tone and mood of your speech. It’s what grips the audience to want to know more about the rest of your talk.

The first few seconds are critical. It’s when you have maximum attention of the audience. And you must capitalize on that!

Instead of starting off with something plain and obvious such as a ‘Thank you’ or ‘Good Morning’, there’s so much more you can do for a powerful speech opening (here’s a great article we wrote a while ago on how you should NOT start your speech ).

To help you with this, I’ve compiled some of my favourite openings from various speakers. These speakers have gone on to deliver TED talks , win international Toastmaster competitions or are just noteworthy people who have mastered the art of communication.

After each speaker’s opening line, I have added how you can include their style of opening into your own speech. Understanding how these great speakers do it will certainly give you an idea to create your own speech opening line which will grip the audience from the outset!

Alright! Let’s dive into the 15 powerful speech openings…

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1. Ric Elias

Opening: “Imagine a big explosion as you climb through 3,000 ft. Imagine a plane full of smoke. Imagine an engine going clack, clack, clack. It sounds scary. Well I had a unique seat that day. I was sitting in 1D.”

How to use the power of imagination to open your speech?

Putting your audience in a state of imagination can work extremely well to captivate them for the remainder of your talk.

It really helps to bring your audience in a certain mood that preps them for what’s about to come next. Speakers have used this with high effectiveness by transporting their audience into an imaginary land to help prove their point.

When Ric Elias opened his speech, the detail he used (3000 ft, sound of the engine going clack-clack-clack) made me feel that I too was in the plane. He was trying to make the audience experience what he was feeling – and, at least in my opinion, he did.

When using the imagination opening for speeches, the key is – detail. While we want the audience to wander into imagination, we want them to wander off to the image that we want to create for them. So, detail out your scenario if you’re going to use this technique.

Make your audience feel like they too are in the same circumstance as you were when you were in that particular situation.

2. Barack Obama

Opening: “You can’t say it, but you know it’s true.”

3. Seth MacFarlane

Opening: “There’s nowhere I would rather be on a day like this than around all this electoral equipment.” (It was raining)

How to use humour to open your speech?

When you use humour in a manner that suits your personality, it can set you up for a great speech. Why? Because getting a laugh in the first 30 seconds or so is a great way to quickly get the audience to like you.

And when they like you, they are much more likely to listen to and believe in your ideas.

Obama effortlessly uses his opening line to entice laughter among the audience. He brilliantly used the setting (the context of Trump becoming President) and said a line that completely matched his style of speaking.

Saying a joke without really saying a joke and getting people to laugh requires you to be completely comfortable in your own skin. And that’s not easy for many people (me being one of them).

If the joke doesn’t land as expected, it could lead to a rocky start.

Keep in mind the following when attempting to deliver a funny introduction:

• Know your audience: Make sure your audience gets the context of the joke (if it’s an inside joke among the members you’re speaking to, that’s even better!). You can read this article we wrote where we give you tips on how you can actually get to know your audience better to ensure maximum impact with your speech openings
• The joke should suit your natural personality. Don’t make it look forced or it won’t elicit the desired response
• Test the opening out on a few people who match your real audience. Analyze their response and tweak the joke accordingly if necessary
• Starting your speech with humour means your setting the tone of your speech. It would make sense to have a few more jokes sprinkled around the rest of the speech as well as the audience might be expecting the same from you

4. Mohammed Qahtani

Opening: Puts a cigarette on his lips, lights a lighter, stops just before lighting the cigarette. Looks at audience, “What?”

5. Darren Tay

Opening: Puts a white pair of briefs over his pants.

How to use props to begin your speech?

The reason props work so well in a talk is because in most cases the audience is not expecting anything more than just talking. So when a speaker pulls out an object that is unusual, everyone’s attention goes right to it.

It makes you wonder why that prop is being used in this particular speech.

The key word here is unusual . To grip the audience’s attention at the beginning of the speech, the prop being used should be something that the audience would never expect. Otherwise, it just becomes something that is common. And common = boring!

What Mohammed Qahtani and Darren Tay did superbly well in their talks was that they used props that nobody expected them to.

By pulling out a cigarette and lighter or a white pair of underwear, the audience can’t help but be gripped by what the speaker is about to do next. And that makes for a powerful speech opening.

6. Simon Sinek

Opening: “How do you explain when things don’t go as we assume? Or better, how do you explain when others are able to achieve things that seem to defy all of the assumptions?”

7. Julian Treasure

Opening: “The human voice. It’s the instrument we all play. It’s the most powerful sound in the world. Probably the only one that can start a war or say “I love you.” And yet many people have the experience that when they speak people don’t listen to them. Why is that? How can we speak powerfully to make change in the world?”

How to use questions to open a speech?

I use this method often. Starting off with a question is the simplest way to start your speech in a manner that immediately engages the audience.

But we should keep our questions compelling as opposed to something that is fairly obvious.

I’ve heard many speakers start their speeches with questions like “How many of us want to be successful?”

No one is going to say ‘no’ to that and frankly, I just feel silly raising my hand at such questions.

Simon Sinek and Jullian Treasure used questions in a manner that really made the audience think and make them curious to find out what the answer to that question is.

What Jullian Treasure did even better was the use of a few statements which built up to his question. This made the question even more compelling and set the theme for what the rest of his talk would be about.

So think of what question you can ask in your speech that will:

• Set the theme for the remainder of your speech
• Not be something that is fairly obvious
• Be compelling enough so that the audience will actually want to know what the answer to that question will be

8. Aaron Beverley

Opening: Long pause (after an absurdly long introduction of a 57-word speech title). “Be honest. You enjoyed that, didn’t you?”

How to use silence for speech openings?

The reason this speech opening stands out is because of the fact that the title itself is 57 words long. The audience was already hilariously intrigued by what was going to come next.

But what’s so gripping here is the way Aaron holds the crowd’s suspense by…doing nothing. For about 10 to 12 seconds he did nothing but stand and look at the audience. Everyone quietened down. He then broke this silence by a humorous remark that brought the audience laughing down again.

When going on to open your speech, besides focusing on building a killer opening sentence, how about just being silent?

It’s important to keep in mind that the point of having a strong opening is so that the audience’s attention is all on you and are intrigued enough to want to listen to the rest of your speech.

Silence is a great way to do that. When you get on the stage, just pause for a few seconds (about 3 to 5 seconds) and just look at the crowd. Let the audience and yourself settle in to the fact that the spotlight is now on you.

I can’t put my finger on it, but there is something about starting the speech off with a pure pause that just makes the beginning so much more powerful. It adds credibility to you as a speaker as well, making you look more comfortable and confident on stage. 

If you want to know more about the power of pausing in public speaking , check out this post we wrote. It will give you a deeper insight into the importance of pausing and how you can harness it for your own speeches. You can also check out this video to know more about Pausing for Public Speaking:

9. Dan Pink

Opening: “I need to make a confession at the outset here. Little over 20 years ago, I did something that I regret. Something that I’m not particularly proud of. Something that in many ways I wish no one would ever know but that here I feel kind of obliged to reveal.”

10. Kelly McGonigal

Opening: “I have a confession to make. But first I want you to make a little confession to me.”

How to use a build-up to open your speech?

When there are so many amazing ways to start a speech and grip an audience from the outset, why would you ever choose to begin your speech with a ‘Good morning?’.

That’s what I love about build-ups. They set the mood for something awesome that’s about to come in that the audience will feel like they just have to know about.

Instead of starting a speech as it is, see if you can add some build-up to your beginning itself. For instance, in Kelly McGonigal’s speech, she could have started off with the question of stress itself (which she eventually moves on to in her speech). It’s not a bad way to start the speech.

But by adding the statement of “I have a confession to make” and then not revealing the confession for a little bit, the audience is gripped to know what she’s about to do next and find out what indeed is her confession.

11. Tim Urban

Opening: “So in college, I was a government major. Which means that I had to write a lot of papers. Now when a normal student writes a paper, they might spread the work out a little like this.”

12. Scott Dinsmore

Opening: “8 years ago, I got the worst career advice of my life.”

How to use storytelling as a speech opening?

“The most powerful person in the world is the storyteller.” Steve Jobs

Storytelling is the foundation of good speeches. Starting your speech with a story is a great way to grip the audience’s attention. It makes them yearn to want to know how the rest of the story is going to pan out.

Tim Urban starts off his speech with a story dating back to his college days. His use of slides is masterful and something we all can learn from. But while his story sounds simple, it does the job of intriguing the audience to want to know more.

As soon as I heard the opening lines, I thought to myself “If normal students write their paper in a certain manner, how does Tim write his papers?”

Combine such a simple yet intriguing opening with comedic slides, and you’ve got yourself a pretty gripping speech.

Scott Dismore’s statement has a similar impact. However, just a side note, Scott Dismore actually started his speech with “Wow, what an honour.”

I would advise to not start your talk with something such as that. It’s way too common and does not do the job an opening must, which is to grip your audience and set the tone for what’s coming.

13. Larry Smith

Opening: “I want to discuss with you this afternoon why you’re going to fail to have a great career.”

14. Jane McGonigal

Opening: “You will live 7.5 minutes longer than you would have otherwise, just because you watched this talk.”

How to use provocative statements to start your speech?

Making a provocative statement creates a keen desire among the audience to want to know more about what you have to say. It immediately brings everyone into attention.

Larry Smith did just that by making his opening statement surprising, lightly humorous, and above all – fearful. These elements lead to an opening statement which creates so much curiosity among the audience that they need to know how your speech pans out.

This one time, I remember seeing a speaker start a speech with, “Last week, my best friend committed suicide.” The entire crowd was gripped. Everyone could feel the tension in the room.

They were just waiting for the speaker to continue to know where this speech will go.

That’s what a hard-hitting statement does, it intrigues your audience so much that they can’t wait to hear more! Just a tip, if you do start off with a provocative, hard-hitting statement, make sure you pause for a moment after saying it.

Silence after an impactful statement will allow your message to really sink in with the audience.

Related article: 5 Ways to Grab Your Audience’s Attention When You’re Losing it!

15. Ramona J Smith

Opening: In a boxing stance, “Life would sometimes feel like a fight. The punches, jabs and hooks will come in the form of challenges, obstacles and failures. Yet if you stay in the ring and learn from those past fights, at the end of each round, you’ll be still standing.”

How to use your full body to grip the audience at the beginning of your speech?

In a talk, the audience is expecting you to do just that – talk. But when you enter the stage and start putting your full body into use in a way that the audience does not expect, it grabs their attention.

Body language is critical when it comes to public speaking. Hand gestures, stage movement, facial expressions are all things that need to be paid attention to while you’re speaking on stage. But that’s not I’m talking about here.

Here, I’m referring to a unique use of the body that grips the audience, like how Ramona did. By using her body to get into a boxing stance, imitating punches, jabs and hooks with her arms while talking – that’s what got the audience’s attention.

The reason I say this is so powerful is because if you take Ramona’s speech and remove the body usage from her opening, the entire magic of the opening falls flat.

While the content is definitely strong, without those movements, she would not have captured the audience’s attention as beautifully as she did with the use of her body.

So if you have a speech opening that seems slightly dull, see if you can add some body movement to it.

If your speech starts with a story of someone running, actually act out the running. If your speech starts with a story of someone reading, actually act out the reading.

It will make your speech opening that much more impactful.

Related article: 5 Body Language Tips to Command the Stage

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Final Words

So there it is! 15 speech openings from some of my favourite speeches. Hopefully, these will act as a guide for you to create your own opening which is super impactful and sets you off on the path to becoming a powerful public speaker!

But remember, while a speech opening is super important, it’s just part of an overall structure.

If you’re serious about not just creating a great speech opening but to improve your public speaking at an overall level, I would highly recommend you to check out this course: Acumen Presents: Chris Anderson on Public Speaking on Udemy. Not only does it have specific lectures on starting and ending a speech, but it also offers an in-depth guide into all the nuances of public speaking. 

Being the founder of TED Talks, Chris Anderson provides numerous examples of the best TED speakers to give us a very practical way of overcoming stage fear and delivering a speech that people will remember. His course has helped me personally and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to learn public speaking. 

No one is ever “done” learning public speaking. It’s a continuous process and you can always get better. Keep learning, keep conquering and keep being awesome!

Lastly, if you want to know how you should NOT open your speech, we’ve got a video for you:

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175 Passion Examples (What are you Passionate About Ideas)

The easiest way to answer the question “What is your Passion?” is to simply state the thing you think about most.

Not only is this the honest answer, but it’s also the one that you’ll be able to talk about with the most conviction!

Below are some examples of passionate behaviors that you can peruse to get an idea. Think about which ones resonate with you and use them as a springboard for your own answer to this question!

How to Know what you’re Passionate About

• You Think About It Endlessly – You’ll know you’re passionate about something when you find yourself thinking about it over and over again.
• You Do it in your Spare Time –  It’s something that you dedicate your own personal energy toward, not just something you do when you’re paid to do it.
• You Never Give Up on It – People who are passionate do not give up because they believe so wholeheartedly in their cause.
• You Dedicate your Life to It – If you’re passionate enough about something, you will dedicate your life to it. You see this with artists, politicians, and entrepreneurs.
• You Train to Get Better at It – If you’re passionate about sports, you’ll train every day to become the best you can possibly be at the sport.
• You Study your Passion at University – When students graduate high school, they’re often asked: “what are you passionate about?” This question, people say, should influence what you decide to study at university.
• You Volunteer for your Cause – If you’re passionate about animal welfare, then you’ll likely want to volunteer your time to help animals.
• You Blogg About It – If you love something and have a lot to say about it, you might start a blog, podcast, or social media account dedicated to talking about the topic.

“What are you Passionate About?” Examples for a Job Application

1. i’m passionate about my career.

One of the most common passion examples presented in job interviews is: “I’m passionate about this job – so give it to me!”

While this may be true, you might need to dig a little deeper.

For example, you could say that you’re passionate about your career because :

• The career gives you purpose
• You feel filfilled when you end the day and have done your best
• You want to be the best at what you do
• You have long-term career goals that you desperately want to achieve

When demonstrating your passion for your career, you want to come across as if you’re the sort of employee who will give your best every single day. You want to show that you have initiative , ambition , and work ethic .

2. I’m Passionate About a Cause

The next option would be to talk about a cause that motivates you. Here, the idea is to demonstrate your values to the potential employer.

You would want to show that your values are consistent with a good employee (i.e. you believe in doing your best, being ethical, and being a thoughtful person.

A secondary benefit is that you could demonstrate that your values are consistent with the values of the workplace. For example, if you want a job at a Veterinary office, then showing your passion is animal welfare makes perfect sense.

3. I’m Passionate About my Hobby

When talking about your passion for a hobby, your goal should be to demonstrate that you have drive and purpose.

Employers want to hire people who have energy. They want to hire go-getters and enthusiasts. These are the sorts of people who will have initiative around the office.

They don’t want to employ people who are low-energy and can barely think of something they like to do in their spare time!

So, when talking about your hobby passion, mix in evidence of how this motivates you, how it demonstrates your persistence , and how you have dedicated yourself to it to frame it as an example of commitment and work ethic.

175 Passion Examples (A to Z List)

Passion examples for students.

• Membership of a Club – If you’re active in a student club, then it’s likely that this is your passion!
• A Life Goal – Talk about the thing you want to achieve in life. It could be related to having a family, moving somewhere, or becoming a respected community member.
• A Specific way you want to Make Positive Change – It could be to invent something to lower greenhouse gasses, educate the youth of tomorrow, or simply improve the local community.
• Your Career Goal – Students should be able to state a lofty career goal, like “Be a CEO of a marketing firm.”
• A Sporting Pursuit – Many students are passionate about a sport. This can help demonstrate your inner drive.
• The Thing you Do During your College Break – It might be traveling, training for a sport, or doing an indoor hobby like arts and crafts.

Examples of Passionate People

• Elon Musk – Musk has created several businesses oriented around solving big problems in the world like climate change (Tesla, Solar City) and space travel (SpaceX).
• Nelson Mandela – Mandela was so passionate about democracy in South Africa that he went to prison for over 10 years for protesting for democracy. He later became the president of South Africa.
• Bill Gates – Gates has been passionate about using technology to improve the world since he was a teenager. He co-founded Microsoft and is now one of the richest men in the world.
• Malala Yousafzai – Malala is a Pakistani girl who was shot by the Taliban for speaking out against them and advocating for girls’ education. She has since recovered and become a powerful advocate for education and human rights.
• Tony Robins – Tony Robins is a motivational speaker who is passionate about helping other people find their passions!
• Greta Thunberg – Greta is a climate change activist who passionately protested, all alone, in Stockholm to get the world’s attention.
• Bernie Sanders – While he never became president, Sanders was noted as one of the most passionate political leaders in the United States. He advocated for human rights and equality.

Passionate Examples in a Sentence

• She was passionate about human rights.
• Bill Gates is passionate about educating children in Africa.
• The saxaphone player is passionate about jazz music.
• The baseball coach is passionate about winning the tournament.
• The struggling writer is passionate about sharing her first novel.
• The speech was a passionate argument against the government.

Passions are unique to each and every one of us. The above examples should hopefully stimulate some “passionate examples” that you can use as a springboard for your discussion of what you’re passionate about. Try to talk about passions that are not only true passions of yours, but talk about them in a way that demonstrates your initiative, work ethic, and moral values .

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 15 Animism Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 10 Magical Thinking Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ Social-Emotional Learning (Definition, Examples, Pros & Cons)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ What is Educational Psychology?

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5 ways to answer,"Tell me about yourself" using your passion, mission or strength [TEMPLATES]

Written by Rebecca Okamoto on March 15, 2017

"Tell me about yourself"

4 words that can cause students, CEO's and everyone in between to ramble or freeze.

It's hard enough to explain what you do simply and clearly.

What do you say if your passion, mission or strength drives you?

Or if you're rebranding yourself, or don't have a lot of work experience?

You don't always have to talk about your work or role.

Your passion, mission and strengths are perfect ways to introduce yourself.

Here's how to turn them into an introduction your listener will value.

Use these Guidelines

Describe how you make a difference.

Don't just talk about your strength, include how you add value. This makes your introduction more engaging and personal.

Here's a before and after:

Before: Describe your passion

• I'm passionate about helping people

After: Explain the difference you make through your passion

• I'm passionate about helping people in need, and finding them opportunities to exceed.

See the difference?

Translate your passion into how you help and your introduction will really stand out.

Keep it to 20 words or less

Remember, these days people only have split second attention spans. Keep your introduction short - 20 words max .

That length makes it simple for you to say, and easy for your listener to remember and pass along to others.

Customize it by relating it to something the listener values

Do you want your introduction to really resonate with your audience?

Do a little research on them, then describe how you add value to something both you and your listener find important. Now you're describing something you're both passionate about.

This technique is perfect when you're interviewing with the hiring manager, meeting your new co-worker, client or boss, or networking with a specific group of people.

Here are 5 templates when you want to use your mission, passion or strength to introduce yourself

To illustrate the templates, imagine you're responding to, "Tell me about yourself..." Feel free to mix and match them to create your perfect introduction.

I'm passionate about...

I'm passionate about [my skill] and helping to improve [something my listener and/or I value]

• I'm passionate about solving problems and helping to improve processes
• I'm passionate about helping people in need, and finding them opportunities to exceed

I'm known for...

I'm known for [my strength] and enjoy [transforming one thing into something of value]

• I'm known for being a problem solver, and enjoy turning theory into practical improvements

I believe in...

I believe in [something I'm known for] and helping [something important to my listener and me]

• I believe in going above and beyond and helping teams do their best

I value [type of role] where I can [do something both the listener and I value]

• I value customer service roles where I help turn first time visitors into loyal guests

I'm on a mission...

I'm on a mission to help [target audience ] + [achieve a goal] by [doing something aspirational]

I'm on a mission to help recent graduates get hired faster by developing their personal brand statements and stories

Your passion, mission and strengths can make a powerful, lasting impression

They're just as important as your role or title.

They define who you are and what you value.

And that's worth sharing.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, what's the best way to showcase my passion in my college essay.

I want to write an essay that really shows my passion for my chosen field. Any tips on how to convey this effectively without sounding too generic?

It's essential to start with introspection when writing an essay about your passion. Think about specific moments, experiences, or projects that demonstrate your enthusiasm for your chosen field. The more specific you can be, the less generic your essay will appear.

Using a narrative format to share a story about these experiences or how you discovered your passion can also be a compelling approach. Be sure to include personal thoughts, emotions, and insights to make it relatable and genuine.

Show how you've grown and developed your passion over time by including details about your journey, citing any obstacles or challenges you faced and how they shaped your perspective. This insight can help demonstrate your determination and growth in your field.

Last but not least, try to convey your future aspirations and how they align with your passion. Colleges like to see students with a clear vision and understanding of how their interests connect to their long-term goals.

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

Short Paragraph on My Passion (375 Words)

Here is your paragraph on My Passion!

We often hear the word Passion, but have never thought or tried to understand in depth about it. We all have an inner liking to certain kind of art or act, that really drives us crazy and we love doing it. We never get tired or bored while being in such kind of act.

Passion is a deep liking to something that you are really interested in.

Understanding or finding one`s passion is a long journey. Once you find out, then you need to nurture it. Every one of us have a passion, you could either get it mastered or leave it just like that. To get it mastered, it takes lot of dedication, hard work and patience. You could cultivate your passion into a profession and earn money from it. When you do something that you love, you would never get tired of sharpening your skills and getting the best out of you and for others.

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My passion is painting. I love painting and it gives me so much pleasure when I am with my paints and brushes. It gives color and life to many pictures around you. Paintings are of different types. There are pencil sketches, oil paintings, glass paintings, fabric paintings and the list just goes on. Be it what kind of painting that you choose to master, painting is a wonderful art and just could not be explained about the satisfaction that you get when you complete a picture.

Hours could be spend while drawing a picture, yet we might not know it, if we are really interested into it. Beautiful pictures with little colors or from a single color could be drawn and bring life to pictures that seem lifeless. If you really have a passion towards painting and drawing, you could just create wonders.

Painting and drawing is an art and I have developed it over the years by attending various drawing and painting classes and participating in competitions.

I have participated in various levels of competitions and have also won prizes, which has increased my level of confidence and liking. I would love to draw more pictures and one day I would love to conduct my own exhibition of my drawings.

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