When you are preparing a speech, what is your first step? Do you brainstorm a topic, make an outline, or research? Consider this next speaking tip:

Speech Preparation Tip #24: Find your Chris and Prepare the Speech for Chris.

Several months ago I spoke to about 50 energetic jr. highers. As I was preparing, I selected another jr higher in the area whom I’ll call Chris. He was a good representative of the audience I was speaking to. I prepared speech as if I was giving it to Chris.
 
I asked myself several questions.
 
  • What problems does Chris have?
  • What would keep Chris’s attention?
  • What info will help Chris?
I kept asking these questions and prepared a customized keynote for Chris. Yes, audiences are diverse and I did seek to add material to target the whole room because of the various backgrounds of the audience.
 
However, by focusing on one person it allowed me give a specific speech tailored for that audience. The result? Great interaction and a keynote that hit home.
 
Simple principle but very powerful.
 
Here are a few public speaking tips on preparing to speak to one person:
 
  • Select someone you know who represents the audience.
  • Ask yourself, “What would I say if it was just this individual in the room?”
  • Tailor the speech so it appeals to and impacts the diversity of people in the room.
  • Prepare for one, but appeal to all

 

Arlen Busenitz

Arlen Busenitz is an experienced speaker with over 650 presentations. He is Author of several books, CD's,and creator of Become a Better Speaker in One Evening™

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