Effective Speech Writing Made Simple

Effective speech writing through some easy steps

One of the most important steps in becoming an effective speech writer, is to know your audience. I do repeat this advice often on this web site but that is because it is very important. Only once you know who you are writing for, should you start working on the other parts of your speech.

What are you going to talk about?

You need to find a topic that will appeal to your audience. If you choose a subject that is not immediately interesting to your listeners, you are going to have to work alot harder. This may not worry you If you like a challenge, but it is something to consider if you want to make your job easier.

What do you already know about your subject?

Are you fortunate enough to knowledgeable about the subject already, if so you might only have to do minimal research just to check your information is current and correct.

Otherwise you need to spend some time gathering content for your speech. One of the most obvious places to find information is, of course, the internet.

The internet is full of useful and not so useful information. It is very easy to get distracted, so be ruthless, set yourself a goal and stick to it. If you find it hard to get motivated you might like this book. Although the internet is a fantastic resource, don't forget other options.

What can beat finding a hidden gem such as an untold story? The best place to find these are by talking to people: family, friends, work colleagues, sporting buddies and club members.

When you speak to these people remember some key points:

Ask their permission to repeat what they are telling you. It might seem obvious to you that you are gathering information for a speech, but it might not to them, especially if they are elderly or if they are not speaking in their native language. You wouldn't like to get them in trouble would you?

Have some questions ready. It is amazing what people can remember with some gentle prodding through questioning.

Take notes and ask before using a recording device.

And remember to thank them for their time.

Where ever you obtain your information from, be sure to double check the facts. Keep records of your sources, so if you are questioned after your public speaking engagement you will be able to refer to your notes.

Do you want to include a quote?

Some speakers like to include quotes in their speech. Using a quote in your opening lines helps set the speech tone. Humorous quotes are great for funny and light hearted speeches, whilst serious quotes are perfect for attention getting opening lines, particular useful if you are giving a persuasive speech.

Ceremonial speeches where you are honoring a recipient can be made even more special if you include a quote from one of the recipient's hero's. Just be careful not to include too many quotes, a speech is meant to be your words not a compilation of other people's words and thoughts. If the quote needs an explanation, do not use it. An explanation will lessen its impact as well as use up your speech time.

For more help on effective speech writing, take a look at these other resources

Speech Outline Sample

10 Speech Writing tips

Return from effective speech writing to home