The science of first impressions: the power of the first seconds
The opening of a speech is when you gain or lose your audience’s attention. As Neill mentions in his video How to Start a Speech, the first few seconds are crucial: “it’s when you have their maximum attention.” During this moment, attendees subconsciously evaluate whether what they are about to hear is relevant, interesting, and valuable to them. If you want to capture their interest and ensure they stay with you, you’ll need a well-planned, intentional opening.
5 effective strategies to open a speech with impact
1. Share a relevant personal story
Charismatic leaders often begin their speeches with a personal anecdote that contains a lesson or an emotional connection. A well-chosen story has the power to humanize you in front of your audience and build empathy. Neill says, “People remember stories because they evoke emotions.” By sharing an authentic experience, you help the audience see you as approachable and trustworthy, establishing a connection that goes beyond formality.
Example: If you are speaking on resilience in times of crisis, you might share a moment when you had to lead under pressure, highlighting the tough decisions and the lessons you learned. These types of stories, especially if they address situations everyone can relate to, immediately connect with the audience.
2. Ask a provocative question
A question is a powerful tool to actively engage the audience from the start. Neill suggests that asking a question “forces the audience to think and gives them a reason to listen.” A good question not only grabs attention but also stimulates interest and reflection within your audience. The key is to pose a question that ties into the central theme of your speech and is intriguing enough not to have an obvious answer.
Example: In a speech on innovation, you could start by asking, “What would you do if your main business disappeared tomorrow?” This unsettling question puts the audience on alert, creating the need to listen to find possible answers.
3. Use an impactful statistic
Neill also recommends using data as an effective opening method, especially if it’s surprising or revealing. Sharing a powerful figure allows the audience to visualize the magnitude of a problem or challenge, making it more tangible and relevant. This is particularly effective if you then connect that data point to a question or a call to action.
Example: In a speech on sustainability, you could begin by saying, “Every year, 18 million hectares of forest are lost—equivalent to 27 football fields every minute.” By providing a specific data point along with a relatable comparison, you trigger an immediate reaction and set a solid foundation to dive deeper into the topic.
4. Start with dramatic silence
It may seem counterintuitive, but one of the most effective ways to start a speech is with silence. A few seconds of pause before you begin creates tension and anticipation, capturing the attention of everyone present. Neill explains that silence “gives the audience time to focus on you; you capture their attention without saying a word.” This technique must be used confidently, as it conveys both authority and calm.
5. Quote a relevant person
Quoting a well-known person can add depth and credibility to your words. Choosing a quote aligned with the theme of your speech can provide your audience with a different perspective or reinforce an initial message. For example, if you’re speaking about leadership, you could open with a quote from great leaders like Mandela or Churchill and then connect their words to your message.
