Introduce a guest speaker with this sample script (in 3 steps)

Summary

This video offers three key tasks for introducing a speaker: stating who they are, explaining why the audience should listen, and actively inviting them to the stage. It emphasizes the importance of correctly pronouncing the speaker’s name and sharing their title, if relevant. Additionally, it highlights the value of clearly presenting the speaker’s topic and expected audience outcomes. A sample script is provided, along with bonus tips such as reinforcing the speaker’s call to action. The video combines lessons from stand-up comedy and TEDx to improve presentation introductions.

Takeaways

• 📢 Always introduce the speaker with their full name and relevant title to ensure clarity for all audience members.
• 📝 Make sure to check the pronunciation of the speaker's name beforehand to avoid mistakes during the introduction.
• 👥 Explain why the audience should listen to the speaker, focusing on their expertise and the value the presentation brings.
• 🎯 Emphasize the outcomes or results the audience will gain from the presentation, rather than just stating the topic.
• 📚 Always mention the title of the presentation, as it adds importance and context to the speaker's message.
• 👏 Actively invite the speaker to the stage by asking for applause after stating their name at the end of the introduction.
• 🎤 Handle any technical tasks, like giving the microphone or remote, before the speaker begins.
• 🗣 Reinforce the speaker’s key message or call to action, such as encouraging the audience to buy their book after the presentation.
• 📖 Use a structured introduction by clearly stating the speaker’s name at the right moment to signal applause.
• 🎁 As a host, take the opportunity to support the speaker’s goals by reminding the audience of key actions after the presentation.

Q & A

What are the three main tasks when introducing a speaker?

The three main tasks are: 1) Tell the audience who the speaker is, 2) Explain why the audience should listen to the speaker, and 3) Actively invite the speaker to the stage.

Why is it important to explicitly state the speaker’s name and title?

It is important to state the speaker’s name and title because not everyone in the audience may know who the speaker is, especially if there are external visitors, new employees, or consultants in the crowd.

How can a host avoid making the mistake of mispronouncing the speaker's name?

The host should check the pronunciation of the speaker's name beforehand to avoid mispronunciation during the introduction.

What should the host mention about the speaker to build credibility?

The host should mention the speaker's area of expertise or their past accomplishments to build credibility, but this should be kept short and focused on the value for the audience.

What is a more powerful way to answer the question of why the audience should listen to the speaker?

Instead of simply stating the topic of the presentation, a more powerful way is to focus on the outcomes and results the audience can expect from listening to the speaker.

Why should the presentation title be mentioned during the introduction?

The presentation title should be mentioned because the speaker likely put effort into crafting a compelling title, and it helps set the stage for what the audience can expect from the talk.

What is a good way to invite the speaker to the stage?

A good way to invite the speaker is by saying their name and asking for a big round of applause, making the invitation explicit and active.

What technical tasks might the host need to complete during the speaker’s introduction?

The host may need to hand over the microphone or the remote to the speaker as part of the introduction.

Why is it important to say the speaker's name at the end of the introduction?

Saying the speaker’s name at the end of the introduction signals that the introduction is complete and it’s time for the audience to applaud and welcome the speaker.

How can the host reinforce the speaker's call to action after the presentation?

The host can remind the audience about the speaker’s call to action, such as where to purchase a book mentioned by the speaker, to reinforce the message and support the speaker's goals.