How to Start a Speech
Discover the top 10+ ways to start a speech. Wow your audience. Make an impact and influence their perspectives through your message. Discover my top 10 powerful strategies for starting a speech. As an expert speaker, I’ve outlined tips, insights, and advice on how to start a persuasive speech and more.
Ways to Start a Speech To Wow Your Audience
Hello, and thank you for being here with me today. I’m Ryan Zofay, and I’m blessed and honored to share my journey with you. There was a time in my life when I felt like the world owed me everything, and gratitude was a foreign concept. I was lost in addiction. My life was a cycle of self-destruction. But from that rock bottom, I overcame adversity. I found a new path.
Today, as the founder of We Level Up (an alcohol and drug rehab), I dedicate my life to helping others as a servant leader and communications coach. I aim to help them find their way out of the darkness. My journey from sadness to finding my passion and purpose has shown me the strong power of connection. This power often starts with the first words we say.
Knowing how to start a speech is more than just a technique; it’s about opening a door to genuine human connection. The first 30 seconds are your golden opportunity to build a bridge between your heart and the hearts of your audience. When I stand on a stage, I’m not just sharing information; I’m sharing a piece of my soul. I want every person in that room to feel seen, understood, and inspired. Read on for the steps, advice, and examples for how to start a speech that transforms any audience.
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How You Start Your Speech Really Matters
When asking how to start a speech, you should pay special attention to your audience’s goal. To start off a speech, use a crisp hook in the first 10–20 seconds. Quickly deliver context and credibility. Ideally, in one breath. Walk your audience through a clear map of what’s coming. Apply an enthusiastic tone with an energy match. Avoid throat-clearing. Get to your point(s), then move. Connect with your audience.
Keep in mind that making a first impression is crucial, and proper confident body language is key. Use smooth transition lines. Memorize the first 30–60 seconds. start strong, be specific, speak to one person in the crowd at a time.
No matter if you are an entrepreneur, a leader, or sharing a personal story, how you start your speech matters. It’s the difference between an audience that listens quietly and one that is really interested. A captivated audience hangs on your every word. This guide is my offering to you, filled with the strategies that have allowed me to impact and influence thousands of lives. Let’s explore how to start a speech with power, purpose, and authenticity.
The Foundation: Why Your Opening Matters
Before we discuss specific techniques, it’s important to understand why the start of your speech matters. Think of it as the first impression. You have a short time to grab attention, build trust, and show your audience that their time is valuable. A strong opening does three things:
- It Grabs Attention: In a world of constant distractions, you are competing for focus. Your opening should grab attention. It needs to pull your audience away from their thoughts and into the moment with you.
- It Builds Connection: People don’t just connect with words; they connect with the person speaking them. An authentic opening helps the audience see you as a real, relatable human being.
- It Sets Expectations: The start of your speech signals what’s to come. It can create interest, offer value, or set an emotional tone for the journey ahead.
For in-depth support, consider joining my Public Speaking Classes.
Top 10 Powerful Strategies for How to Start a Speech
Over the years, I’ve honed several methods for opening a speech. These aren’t just tricks; they are genuine ways to connect. The key is to choose the one that feels most authentic to you and your message. Here are 10 effective strategies with examples you can adapt.
1. Tell a Powerful Personal Story
This is my go-to strategy and, in my opinion, the most powerful. A story instantly creates an emotional connection. It’s the most human way to communicate. When I share my story of addiction and recovery, I’m not just recounting events; I’m sharing vulnerability, struggle, and hope. That authenticity is what resonates.
How to start a speech with a story:
Begin with a short, compelling anecdote that relates directly to your core message.
- How to start a speech about yourself: “As a young teen, I was a hopeless drug addict with a 7th-grade education. I had burned every bridge and lost everyone who ever loved me. It was in that moment of complete and utter brokenness that my real journey began. Today, I’m the found of a 9-figure organization and help lead a team of 600+. Also, hundreds of thousands watch my videos on personal development and public speaking.”
- How to start a speech for a business investors: “The first time I pitched We Level Up, I entered a room of investors. They saw me as just another number. They didn’t know that the business plan in my hand came from a personal change. It was born from a promise I made to myself in a treatment center, to change my life. And now to change others lives. This was my purpose. My mission. I lived it and wore it as my badge of courage.”
2. Ask a Thought-Provoking Question
A question immediately engages the audience’s minds. It shifts them from passive listeners to active participants. When you ask a question, you invite them into a conversation, even if they only answer in their heads.
How to start a speech with a question:
Pose a rhetorical or direct question that makes the audience reflect on their own experiences or beliefs.
- How to start a persuasive speech example: “How many of you have ever felt like you were meant for more, but something was holding you back?”
- For a presentation on change: “What if you discovered that the one thing you believed was your greatest weakness was actually your greatest strength?”
3. Share a Shocking Statistic or Fact
Our brains are wired to notice things that are surprising or unexpected. A startling statistic can immediately grab attention and establish the importance and relevance of your topic. It provides a logical hook that appeals to the analytical side of your audience.
How to start a speech with a statistic:
Find a statistic that is both surprising and directly relevant to your message. Deliver it with impact.
- For a speech on mental health: “Did you know that over 40 million American adults experience an anxiety disorder, yet less than 40% of them receive treatment? We are facing a silent epidemic.”
- For a business presentation: “According to a recent Gallup poll, 85% of employees worldwide are not engaged or are actively disengaged in their job. That’s a staggering amount of untapped human potential.”
4. Make a Bold and Provocative Statement
Starting with a bold claim challenges your audience’s assumptions and makes them eager to hear your explanation. It’s a high-risk, high-reward strategy that, when done right, can create immense curiosity.
How to start a speech with a bold statement:
Make a strong, counterintuitive statement that goes against common belief.
- For a speech on success: “Everything you’ve been taught about achieving success is wrong.”
- For a leadership talk: “The most important quality of a great leader isn’t vision or charisma. It’s the willingness to be the first one to say, ‘I was wrong.'”
5. Use a Powerful Quote
A well-chosen quote can lend credibility and emotional weight to your opening. It leverages the wisdom and authority of a recognized figure to frame your message.
How to start a speech with a quote:
Select a quote that encapsulates the theme of your speech and credit the author.
- For a motivational speech: “The great motivational speaker Les Brown once said, ‘You don’t have to be great to get started, but you have to get started to be great.’ Today, we’re going to talk about getting started.”
- For a speech on perseverance: “Nelson Mandela famously said, ‘The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.’ I’m here today to talk about the rising.”
6. Create a “What If” or “Imagine” Scenario
This technique transports your audience out of their current reality and into a world of possibility. It’s a creative way to illustrate a problem or a vision and make your topic more vivid and engaging.
How to start with a speech using an “imagine” scenario:
Paint a picture with your words, asking the audience to visualize a specific situation.
- How to start a speech on innovation: “Imagine a world where your business runs itself, where your team is so aligned and empowered that your main role is simply to dream up the next big thing. What would that freedom feel like?”
- For a persuasive speech on social change: “Imagine a community where every single person feels safe, valued, and has the resources to thrive. That’s not a utopian fantasy; it’s a future we can build together.”
7. Start with a Simple Greeting and a Statement of Purpose
Sometimes, the most effective opening is the most direct. For certain audiences, especially in a formal business or academic setting, a straightforward introduction can be very effective. This approach builds trust through clarity and respect for the audience’s time.
How to start an introduction for a speech:
Combine a warm greeting with a clear, concise statement about who you are and what you’re there to discuss.
- How to start a speech of introduction example: “Good morning, everyone. My name is Ryan Zofay. For the next 20 minutes, I’m going to share with you the single most important lesson I’ve learned about building a business from the ground up. I share the power of a purpose-driven culture.”
8. Refer to a Recent Event or Common Experience
Connecting your speech to something that is current and relevant to your audience creates an instant sense of shared context. It shows that you are present and aware of their world.
How to start a speech with a shared experience:
Mention a recent industry event, a major news story, or a common challenge you know the audience is facing.
- How to start a speech for a business conference: “I know many of us were at the industry awards gala last night. I was struck by the theme of ‘resilience.’ That’s exactly what I want to talk about today. How can we build resilient teams in the face of unprecedented market changes?”
9. Use Humor (Carefully)
A well-placed, relevant joke can be a fantastic icebreaker. It can relax the audience, make you more likable, and create a positive atmosphere. However, humor is subjective and can be risky. If you’re not naturally funny, it’s often best to avoid this one. The humor should always be self-deprecating or related to a shared, universal experience.
How to start a speech with humor:
Tell a short, funny anecdote or make a witty observation related to your topic.
- For a speech about public speaking: “They say you should picture the audience in their underwear to calm your nerves. Right now, all I can think is, ‘Wow, that’s a lot of laundry.’ But seriously, being up here can be terrifying…”
10. Start with Silence and Presence
This is an advanced but incredibly powerful technique. Instead of rushing to speak, walk onto the stage and find your spot. Take a few seconds to stand in silence, making eye contact with different people in the audience. This confident pause builds anticipation and commands attention. It communicates that you are grounded, in control, and have something important to say.
How to start a speech with silence:
Walk on stage, plant your feet, take a deep breath. Scan the audience with a calm, confident expression for 3-5 seconds before you say your first word.
In conclusion, it would probably Makes Sense So To Speak, to take Public Speaking Classes, understand the difference between Motivation Speaking vs Inspirational Keynote speeches as part of your speech crafting process.
4 Steps to Putting It All Together: The Opening Sequence
No matter which hook you choose, your opening should follow a simple structure:
| Step | Purpose | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1. The Hook | Grab attention and create interest. | “At 26 years old, I was staring at a 10-year prison sentence…” |
| 2. The Introduction | Briefly state who you are and why you’re credible. | “Today, as the founder of a national network of treatment centers, I want to tell you that your past does not define your future.” |
| 3. The Main Message | Clearly state the topic or core message of your speech. | “We’re going to explore the three key mindsets that allow you to turn any adversity into your greatest advantage.” |
| 4. The Transition | Smoothly move into the body of your speech. | “So, let’s start with the first mindset…” |
How to Start of a Persuasive Speech – Top 10 Success Tactics
When you’re figuring out how to start a speech, pay special attention to:
(1) Know Your Audience & goal
Start by defining who’s in the room and what you want them to do or feel by the end. Consider what they care about, and what you want them to think/do. Turn that into a clear “promise” in your opening line.
- Identify their needs, knowledge level, and mood
- State your outcome (“By the end, you’ll…”)
(2) Craft a crisp hook (first 10–20 seconds).
Open with something that earns attention and sets the direction. Pick one:
- Story: “Two years ago, I almost quit…”
- Surprising stat: “Every 12 seconds, someone…”
- Question: “Show of hands—who here has…?”
- Bold claim: “Today, I’ll show you why X is upside down.”
- Vivid scene: “Imagine it’s 5 a.m., freezing, and your phone buzzes…”
- Short, relevant quote (keep it punchy and explain why it matters).
(3) Provide Context & credibility (in one breath)
Ground the topic and why you’re a trustworthy guide—in one breath.
- One-liner on your role/experience
- Tie your background directly to the problem
- Explain why you’re worth listening to: “As a school counselor who’s met 400+ families this year…”
(4) Offer a Clear Map (what’s coming)
Provide a simple roadmap. It lowers anxiety and boosts audience attention. Explain:
- “Three parts: what’s broken, what works, what to do by Monday”
- Keep it to one sentence
(5) Tone & Energy Match
Let the opening’s tone match the whole talk. Set it from the first sentence. Your opening should sound like the rest of your talk.
- Formal vs. conversational
- Solemn vs. celebratory
- Pace and volume set expectations
(6) Tightness (no throat-clearing)
Get to the point quickly; trim anything that dilutes momentum.
- Skip tech chatter.
- Skip apologies and long thank-yous
- Get to the point, then move on.
(7) Audience Connection
Signal you see them and this moment.
- Use “you,” name the group/event
- Acknowledge / not to your shared reality or effort
- Example: “You’ve juggled exams, rehearsals, and now this—thank you for showing up.”
(8) First impression Body Language
Your presence speaks before your words do.
- Pause, plant, breathe
- Smile and soften
- Eye contact before the first line
- Let silence amplify your opener. Your silence for 1–2 beats amplifies your first line.
(9) Smooth Transition Line
Bridge the hook to your first main point smoothly.
- Example: “That moment revealed a gap we still ignore—here’s how to fix it.”
(10) Memorize The First Minute
Rehearse your open verbatim. Memorize the first 30–60 seconds. It calms nerves and sets momentum. Locking your opening speech to memory calms nerves and sets momentum.
- Rehearse the exact words.
- Practice the pause before speaking.
Bonus Quick Do/Don’t
- Do: start strong, be specific, speak to one person in the crowd at a time.
- Don’t: say “I didn’t prepare,” gamble on a risky joke, or give a long autobiography
Mini checklist (use right before you go on)
- Hook picked? One sentence of credibility? One-sentence roadmap?
- First line memorized? Mic working? Breath + pause ready?
- Time-appropriate tone?
Final Thoughts: Be Authentic, Be You
The best advice on how to start off a speech is to choose the method that feels most authentic to you. The audience can sense when you’re not being genuine. My story is powerful because it’s mine. Your power lies in your unique story and perspective.
Practice your opening until it feels natural. The first few moments of your speech are critical, and being well-prepared will give you the confidence to deliver it with impact. Remember that public speaking isn’t a performance; it’s a conversation. It’s an act of service. You are there to give something to your audience—a new idea, a feeling of hope, a practical solution.
I am truly grateful for this opportunity to share my insights with you. I hope these strategies help you feel confident on any stage. Share your message and make the impact you were meant to make. Go out there and let your voice be heard.
Resources Section
Easily get more insights:
- Top Motivation Speaking vs Inspirational Keynote Differences
- Top 10 Tips Rise Above Nobody Cares Work Harder
- How to Get Motivated: Ultimate Guide by Motivational Expert
- Uncover What are the Hierarchy of a Startup for Success
- Top-notch Public Speaking Workshops Near Me Training Guide
- Your Subconscious is Preventing You | Ryan Zofay Blog
- Difference between Boss vs Leader Which is Best? Quote Video
- #1 Communication Coach Success Guide Tips, Advice & Insights
- Top 5 Ways to Achieve Standards for Success in Life & Work
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