Speech introductions are an essential element of an effective public speech. Introductions have four specific functions that must be met in a short period of time. In a proper introduction you will want to:
- Gain the audiences attention
- Provide background information
- Establish credibility
- State the purpose of the speech (thesis statement) and preview the main points
Gaining the audience’s attention
The first function of the introduction is to get the attention AND the interest of the audience. The “and” here is important. Anyone can walk into a room full of people sitting quietly, and YELL AT THE TOP OF THEIR LUNGS. That will get attention. However, it will probably not garner much interest—at least not much positive interest.
Gaining attention and interest is essential if you want the audience to listen to what you have to say, and audiences will decide fairly quickly if they want to pay attention. Standing in front of an audience, slouched, hands in pockets, cap pulled low over your head, and mumbling, “my name is… and I am going to tell you about…” is an effective method of NOT getting attention and interest. Before you even open your mouth, your attire, stance, and physical presence are all sending out loud signals that you have no interest in the speech, so why should the audience.