Set Speakers Up for Success
Many speeches are wounded before they even begin. The most common damage done to a guest speaker happens in the introduction speech. Whether it is a boring introduction, a long litany of unimportant details, or the deadly mistake of giving away a guest speaker's point, introductions are notorious for doing the opposite of what they are supposed to do: set the guest speaker up for success. Here is do it well.
Instructions
1. Research the guest speaker ahead of time.
Get basic bibliographic information long before you have to give the introduction. As you do your research don't look for just any bit of information. There is a reason this person is speaking. Perhaps they are a professional keynote speaker, a celebrity guest speaker, or a motivational speaker par excellence. Your job is highlight the expertise and authority of the guest speaker. Look for key accomplishments, awards, and marks of success that the speaker herself shouldn't mention or it would be self-promotional. If you know the guest speaker be sure that your relationship doesn't overshadow the introduction. Often it is best to simply leave out that 'this is a good friend of mine.'
This information should be accurate but not overly detailed. An introduction speech is by nature short and inspiring. Avoid the 'let me take a few moments...' syndrome. If you feel the need to say that, your speech is going to be too long.
2. Decide what elements of the speaker's character and success are most significant to the audience.
You don't need to mention to a gathering of veterans that this speaker is an active leading member of Mothers of PreSchoolers. What character traits are most important to this group? For some groups humility in a public speaker is more important than success. For others entrepreneurial gifts are more important than the number of children a guest speaker has. Give your guest speaker an introduction speech tailored to the audience.
3. Spend the most time on the first and last two sentences of your introduction speech.
To begin with 'Friends, you may never get a chance like this again' is much better than 'It is my privilege to introduce our speaker for the evening.' Yawn.
To end with 'Since I can barely wait to join you by sitting on the edge of my seat for a while, allow me to introduce...' is a better introduction speech than 'let's give a warm welcome to...' ZZZZZZZ.
The first sentence of your introduction speech for a guest speaker should grab attention and raise expectations. The last sentence should heighten the energy and attention in the room and end with a cadence that invites applause. The speaker's name should be the last two words you speak in an upbeat, elevated, and excited tone. The last thing motivational speakers or celebrity guest speakers need is an awkward silence after you invite them up. Bring them up in a storm of applause.
4. Here is a sample introduction speech for a guest speaker:
'I have been eagerly anticipating this evening for months. Like many of you, I recognize that the opportunity to hear our speaker in person tonight is a rare and extremely valuable opportunity. She is the best selling author of numerous award winning books including Millionaires On Every Corner and A Life on Fire. What you may not know is she is an avid philanthropist and activist for the rights of enslaved children world wide and the end of malaria in our lifetime. Even though she might not admit it to you, her speaking calendar is filling up seven years out with an ever growing waiting list. Prepare to be inspired, motivated, and more importantly equipped to live the life you always wanted. I don't want to waste another moment of her time, so please give an energetic welcome to our speaker for the evening, Sheza Fakename!'
* See more tips below on introduction speeches for guest speakers.
