Stage Fright?

How Not To Introduce A Speaker

What three word phrase should be locked into the vault when introducing a speaker? Before I reveal the answer, let’s go behind the scenes.

Whether the event is a large convention or a small gathering of like-minded colleagues waiting for their CEO to deliver the annual report, the introducer has a responsibility to shine the light on the speaker. Allow me to repeat that last phrase: “shine the light on the speaker”.

The purpose of an introduction is to set the stage for the speaker’s presentation. The audience needs these opening words to warm up to the speaker, not the introducer. No matter how funny the joke may be, or how thrilling the experience could be, it’s the speaker who needs to be connected by a strong thread to the people filling the chairs.

What NOT to do as an introducer:

1. Scratch notes on the back of your grocery bill as you drive to the event.
2. Ignore the speaker’s bio, and just wing it
3. Talk about how much you personally also understand the subject at hand
4. Not bother to stand or use the microphone as you make your opening remarks
5. Tell jokes that everyone else also received in their emails
6. Arrive late enough that you do not have a chance to connect with the presenter
7. Let your own ego preside over the meeting

So, what should you do?

A. Prepare in advance. Ask the speaker for a bio, and then edit the information into your own language - the way you speak. If there’s a difficult multi-syllable word that trips you up, find a synonym. Transcribe your notes into a final copy, and print it out in 16 point font on card stock. Make a duplicate copy.
B. Ask the speaker for their own personalized introduction. Do not change it without their permission.
C. Arrive early for the event. Be the host of the presenter. This may seem like common sense, but the more welcome the speaker feels, the better their presentation to your group.
D. Get comfortable standing behind the lectern and using a microphone. Learn to manage the stress of speaking. Hire a coach, or take in Toastmasters.
E. Choose your humour wisely.
F. Get over yourself. Keep your ego in your pocket.

Finally, let me share the words that make most professional speakers wince.

“Without”
“Further”
“Ado...”

Please, no more further ado’s. You can substitute: “We are excited to hear from... please welcome...”. Try: “And now, Ms....”.

Then turn to the speaker, and get eye contact. Smile. Shakes hands, a sign of a warm, sincere welcome which puts your presenter in the limelight once more.

Sit back, enjoy.

Next week: Part 2 “How to write an introduction.”

- ### -

Maggie Chicoine is a professional speaker and charter member of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers. Maggie coaches people who are terrified to speak - and creates ease and eloquence for everyone at the podium.

She is also a professional member of PWAC, ICF and IAFF. Reach her at 1 800 587 1767 or www.theideasculptor.com