How A Motivational Commencement Speaker Should Start An Event

by | Oct 6, 2023 | Sales coaching

In the hushed anticipation of a commencement ceremony, as the graduates don their caps and gowns, and families and friends gather with hearts full of pride, there exists a magical moment. It is within this unique space, brimming with both nostalgia and anticipation, that a motivational commencement speaker steps onto the stage, tasked with the extraordinary responsibility of imparting wisdom, inspiration, and guidance to a cohort of young minds poised to set forth into the world. In this article, we delve into the art of starting a commencement speech, exploring the strategies and elements that make those initial moments not just memorable but transformative.

  1. Introduce Yourself: Begin by introducing yourself briefly. Share your name, credentials, and any relevant background or experiences that establish your credibility as a motivational speaker. Keep this part concise to maintain audience interest.
  1. Connect with the Audience: Make a connection with your audience on an emotional level. You can share a relatable anecdote or experience that ties you to the graduates and makes you more relatable.
  1. Use a Powerful Quote: Start with a powerful and relevant quote that encapsulates the theme or message of your speech. This can grab the audience’s attention and set the stage for your remarks.
  1. Pose a Rhetorical Question: Engage the audience by posing a thought-provoking rhetorical question related to the occasion or the theme of your speech. This encourages reflection and involvement from the listeners.
  1. Tell a Story: Share an inspiring and relatable story that illustrates the central message you want to convey. Stories are memorable and can captivate the audience’s emotions.
  1. Set the Tone: Establish the tone of your speech. If your message is meant to be uplifting and motivational, convey this from the beginning by using positive and enthusiastic language.
  1. Engage the Senses: Try to engage multiple senses in your opening. Use vivid language that paints a picture in the minds of the audience and appeals to their emotions.
  1. Make it Personal: Share a personal message or reflection, especially if it relates to the graduates’ experiences or challenges they may face in the future.

Learn More At DougDvorak.com

Recent Posts

Categories

Archive

Related Posts