Chapter 4: Informative Speaking

Many people would rather go see an impassioned political speech or a comedic monologue than a lecture. Although informative speaking may not be the most exciting form of public speaking, it is the most common. Reports, lectures, training seminars, and demonstrations are all examples of informative speaking. That means you are more likely to give and listen to informative speeches in various contexts throughout your life. Some organizations, like consulting firms, and career fields, like training and development, are solely aimed at conveying information. College alumni have reported that out of many different speech skills, informative speaking is the most important (Verderber, 1991). This chapter will outline types of informative speech and discuss informative strategies to assist with informative speech development. We will also become familiar with using audience analysis to make important speech decisions to ensure our message is heard.