The document discusses effective opening techniques for speeches. It recommends getting the audience's attention, introducing the topic, and establishing rapport within the first 5-10% of the speech. Suggested techniques include stating the importance of the topic, making a startling statement, arousing curiosity, telling a story, asking a rhetorical question, beginning with a quotation, or referencing the occasion. Humor, audience participation, demonstrations, and historical references are also listed as possible techniques. The document advises avoiding acknowledging preparation, being dull, or delaying mentioning the topic in the opening.

1. Beginning
Your Speech
The Better Speaker Series
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2. Criteria for a Successful
Opening
 Get the attention of the audience
 Introduce the topic
 Establish rapport
 Take less than five to 10 percent of
the entire speech time
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3. Opening Techniques
State the importance of
your topic
Tell your listeners why the
topic is important to them.
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4. Opening Techniques
Make a startling statement
“Smoking kills! More Americans
die each year than were killed in
battle during World War II and
Vietnam together.”
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5. Opening Techniques
Arouse suspense or curiosity
Use a series of statements
related to the topic that would
pique your listeners’ interest.
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6. Opening Techniques
Tell a story or anecdote
“My brother and I went hunting
last week in the woods behind
my house…”
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7. Opening Techniques
Ask a rhetorical question
“Do you know what to do if your
child begins to choke?”
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8. Opening Techniques
Begin with a quotation
A quotation can:
Add authority to a speech
Amuse the audience
Dramatize a speech point
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9. Opening Techniques
Reference the occasion
It allows the speaker to recognize
an unusual or important event
and establish a common interest
with the audience.
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10. Other Techniques
Humor
Audience participation
A demonstration
A reference to a historical event
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11. Openings to Avoid
 Avoid acknowledging the
amount of preparation
 Avoid being dull and boring
 Avoid delaying mention of
the topic
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12. Conclusion
A dynamic beginning
is essential for a
successful speech!
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