A good introduction reflects well on both the speaker and the introducer.
If you have been asked to introduce a speaker, here are seven considerations that will help you excel:
1) Be prepared. Write the introduction before the meeting. Then practice it so that you can say it easily and conversationally.
2) Be brief. The introduction is supposed to be shorter than the presentation. Ideally, an introduction should take less than a minute (or two). This limits the introduction to less than 120 (or 240) words.
3) Be selective. When describing the speaker's credentials, mention only the main achievements. For example, if the speaker has written 35 books, just state that "Our speaker has written 35 books" instead of reciting a list of 35 titles. And, yes, I've heard this done.
4) Be gracious. Your job is to introduce the speaker, and not replace the speaker. Save the speaker's content, stories, and humor for the speaker.
5) Be wise. Avoid setting extraordinary expectations. Regardless how well intended, these always work against the speaker.
And so never say something like: "Our speaker is the funniest comic on the planet." or "This is the most brilliant presentation you will ever hear."
6) Be smart. Ask the speaker to provide an introduction. Then take time to read and rehearse this introduction so that you can deliver it smoothly. Also, ask the speaker how to pronounce any unfamiliar terms.
7) Be consistent. Never announce changes in the program during the introduction. If changes do occur, talk about them as soon as possible before the program starts. Especially bad changes, for example, include, "We need to cut the time for this presentation in half." or "We'd rather hear about software development instead of market strategies." or "I hope our speaker leaves out all of the complex logic that appeared in the book."
Key Point: The audience and the speaker are relying on you to deliver an effective introduction. Take the time to prepare one that works.
Much success,
Steve Kaye
One Great Meeting
714-528-1300
Meetings that matter. Workshops that work.
Website
blog