Writing a speech and delivering it are two separate challenges. If you’re not sure where to start with the writing process, use this six-part outline as a guide.
Photo by Brisbane City Council
Over at The Muse, Deborah Grayson Riegel, CEO and Chief Communication Coach for Talk Support: Don’t Be Left Speechless, explains that a good speech should be simple and streamlined. And you can organise it using the following outline:
- An attention-getting introduction: Maybe it’s a quote, a story or a statistic. Whichever method you choose for your intro, it should be interesting and draw listeners in.
- A preview: Tell your listener what you’re going to cover in the speech.
- A few points to make your case: Write a few takeaways you want your audience to get from your speech.
- A recap: Tell your audience what they just got from your speech.
- A Q&A: Riegel suggests going over the Q&A before your wrap up so you can end on your own terms.
- The Closer: As Riegel puts it, “draw a final inspiring conclusion that will compel people to think and act differently, and then close with a stirring statement that’s memorable.”
Of course, there’s a lot nuance that goes into a good speech, and you don’t want to make it seem like you’re following a formula. This is a good outline to use for organising your ideas, though. For more speech-writing tips, head to the full post at the link below.
How to Write a Speech [The Muse via Inc.com]
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