Tributes and Speeches

Your big day is coming and time is growing short. You've got to make a speech. Perhaps it is a tribute to a colleague or business presentation. Or maybe a toast at a wedding.

You want to have a touch of humor, some stories and facts, and a memorable conclusion. But how does it all come together?

You've heard enough bad speeches to know what to avoid: rambling, monotone voice, endless regurgitation of facts, too many filler words. Perhaps you should consider a speechwriter.

Inexperienced speakers often kid themselves into thinking they just want to speak off the cuff or from their heart so they will seem more authentic. That strategy almost never works and shows a disrespect for your audience.

Mark Twain knew the importance of planning and practice when he famously quipped that is someone wanted a two-hour speech, he could start right away but he'd need two weeks to prepare a good five-minute talk.

For tips on developing an engaging speech, visit my companion website. Start working on your outline. And if you would like my help with your upcoming speech, please email me with at least a few weeks lead time.