Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Preparing As A Keynote Speaker

By Anthony West


Every occasion has its climax and a message that the organizers wish would resonate with the audience until the next meeting. It is the work of a keynote speaker to deliver this message. As such, the search for such a person should be deliberate and the appointed person must take the mandate seriously. It is the responsibility of this guest and the organizer to ensure that this address is actualized.

Having been given the mandate to address the gathering, how should you prepare and deliver your speech? You begin by knowing the mission of your client. Each audience and organization is different. Discuss with your client and identify the purpose of the gathering. As you prepare, consider the possibility of change. Understand the dynamics that could change the audience or format for the meeting on the night before you make your address.

Every convention invites speakers for different purposes. The intention is to deliver the address in a motivating, entertaining, instructional, etc way. As a contracted speaker, discuss with clarity the capacity and mode of delivery expected of you. In most cases, your character will define the expected mode of delivery. Perfect this mode to avoid fatally missing the point and falling below expectations.

The timing for main address depends on the organizers and structure of the conference. This creates a possibility of addressing the gathering at the beginning, in the middle or even at the end. Appearing at the opening is a signal that your role is to set the agenda. Addressing the gathering in the middle is meant to refocus the discussion and fuel it towards a set climax. Should your speech come towards the end, it is designed to cement what has been said and send off the crowd with a resonating idea in anticipation of the next conference.

Connecting with the audience is mandatory for all guest speakers. This is only possible if you understand the theme and purpose of a gathering. Be conversant with the unique challenges the group is facing and give your considered way forward. Adapt to the mood of your audience and be prepared with incredible hold and release moments that will keep the audience glued to your words.

A customized speech will enable you deliver the best address. Mention issues that your listeners can identify with. This can only be achieved by researching on the specifics on the organization. Know the people, their latest triumph. Learn names, products, press mentions, new releases, etc. Find a way of talking about the daily lives of the lowest person in that conference as well as the highest ranking.

Speakers delivering keynote address are selected for a reason. In most cases, organizers are looking for some uniqueness that fits well within the year, month, day and timing of the conference. They expect that your address will fit within the prevailing context better than any other person. This calls for a unique and memorable presentation that can never be delivered by any other person.

To make a good speech, you must time and pace the presentation. It should take between thirty and forty five minutes. The style of delivery should be characteristically yours with special focus on the audience and the organization. Prepare adequately to make your presentation flow and with sufficient punch lines to keep the audience glued.




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