Guide to Speeches: Practical Tips for Writing and Giving Speeches
- Determine the audience for whom the speech is intended and write with that audience in mind.
- Ask how long the speech is expected to be and whether there will be time for questions. Make it shorter rather than longer if you have the choice.
- Estimate about two minutes of non-rushed speaking per double-spaced page. Pace yourself. Develop a conversational tempo. Consider tape-recording a rehearsal and listening to your speed and tone.
- Avoid academic and professional jargon and remember that short words are easier to speak and to understand.
- Try to write one thought per sentence.
- If you have an appropriate quote that reinforces your message, use it. But don’t feel you must use quotes and don’t use a lot of them.
- If appropriate, add a dash or two of humor. Introductions and endings are often the easiest places to do so.
- Read the speech aloud, changing any words or phrases that may be tongue twisters.
- Always check the pronunciations of any names in a speech and include a phonetic pronunciation in the text.
- Know the size of your expected audience and bring handouts accordingly, if handouts are being used.
- If possible, rehearse in the room you’ll actually use. You’ll feel more comfortable when you present your material.
- If you intend to use audio-visual equipment, check — and double-check — any necessary arrangements. Ideally, do an advance run-through.
- Prepare for questions. If you don’t know the answer to a question, don’t guess. Write the question down and answer it fully the next day, either with a note or a phone call.
- If you will be introduced, provide a brief list of career highlights (in bullet format), rather than your résumé.
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