What Type of Speech Is Best for Impact? Discover the 12 Different Types of Speeches for Impactful Delivery
Public speaking is one of the most powerful tools we have to connect, inspire, and create change. Yet, many people struggle with one simple but critical question: What type of speech is best for me? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Every speaker, message, and audience requires a different approach.
In this guide, I will help you explore the different types of speeches. You will learn how to find the right one for your style. I will also show you how to use these strategies to influence, educate, and inspire.
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What Type of Speech Is Best for Your Delivery Style?
When I first started my journey, I was a broken man. I was lost, suffering from childhood trauma leading to addiction as a teen. My voice was the last thing I knew how to use. I felt like the world owed me something, and the words that came out of my mouth were often filled with anger and blame. The thought of standing on a stage and speaking to hundreds or thousands of people felt like a cruel joke.
But life has a funny way of leading you down paths you never imagined. Today, I’m 22 years sober, helping lead a team of over 600. Having founded the 9-figure We Level Up rehab business. My voice, which used to cause me pain, is now my strongest tool for change. It helps not just me, but also the thousands of people I have coached and inspired. I’m sharing this with you because I want you to understand that your voice has power, no matter where you are in your life right now.
Many people hear the word “speech” and either think back to eighth-grade English class or freeze up at the thought of public speaking. But understanding the different types of speeches is the first step toward mastering communication. It’s not about being a perfect speaker. It’s about connecting with your audience, sharing your truth, and making a difference. Next, I will explain the different types of speech and delivery methods. I will share my own experiences on and off the stage. This will help you find the best type of speech for you.
Understanding Types of Speeches: More Than Just Words
Before we dive into the deep end, let’s clear something up. When we ask, “what type of speech is this?”, the answer can go in two directions. In grammar, we talk about the 8 types of speech—nouns, verbs, adjectives, and so on. These are the building blocks of our sentences.
For our purpose, we will focus on the “types of speech” referring to public speaking. This means giving a formal talk to an audience. This is where the magic happens. It’s where you can inform, persuade, entertain, and inspire. From a keynote speech in a crowded room to a warm toast at a wedding, each situation needs a different approach. Knowing the various types of a speech gives you a roadmap to deliver your message effectively.
What Type of Speech is Used Matters
Before diving into the various types of speech, it’s important to understand why this matters. What type of speech is your go-to format? It’s not just about presentation. It’s about impact. The same content can fall flat in the wrong format or completely transform lives in the right one.
Ask yourself, What type of speech is going to help me connect with this audience? You’re already positioning yourself as a more intentional and effective speaker.
For example, in my personal development journey, which I share on my blog, I learned that my speech structure matters. It decided if people felt inspired or indifferent after listening.
The 12 Major Types of Speeches
So, what are the different types of speeches you can deliver? Most speaking opportunities fall into 12 types of speech broad categories. Let’s explore the primary types of speech based on their purpose. As for what type of speech is finally selected, it depends on your purpose and delivery style.
Types of Speeches Based on Purpose
Every time I step on stage, I have a clear goal in mind. First, I weigh what type of speech is the right fit. I ask, am I here to teach, to motivate, or to celebrate? Your purpose is your North Star. It guides your content, your tone, and your connection with the audience.
1. Informative Speeches
Types of informative speeches are designed to teach, explain, or share knowledge. Imagine a teacher in a classroom, a trainer at a workshop, or a speaker sharing clear ideas.
An informative speech is all about education. Your goal is to provide your audience with new information, explain a complex topic, or clarify a concept. You’re the teacher, and your job is to present facts, data, and details in a way that’s easy to understand. The three important types of informative speeches are those about objects, processes, and concepts.
The goal here is clarity. You’re not trying to persuade, but to expand your audience’s understanding.
- Example: A teacher explaining the water cycle.
My insights as a speaker: I often use elements of informative speaking in my workshops. For example, when I teach the principles of transformative leadership, I’m breaking down actionable strategies and systems. The key is to be clear, organized, and credible. You’re not trying to sway opinions, just to share knowledge.
2. Persuasive Speeches
The types of persuasive speeches we use are aimed at inspiring action or changing beliefs. In many ways, these are the heartbeat of motivational speaking. To persuade someone to invest in their growth, make healthier choices, or be brave, you need emotion, logic, and trust.
This is where my heart truly lies. A persuasive speech aims to convince your audience to adopt your viewpoint, believe in your cause, or take a specific action. When I share my story of beating addiction and starting fresh, I’m not just telling a tale. I want to show you that you can change your life, too.
This type of speech is especially powerful when aligned with your authentic story. I often share my journey of overcoming setbacks as a way to show others what’s possible.
- Example: A politician urging people to vote for a policy.
My insights as a speaker: Persuasive speaking relies on a powerful mix of logic (logos), emotion (pathos), and credibility (ethos). You must give a strong argument supported by evidence. You also need to connect with your audience personally. It’s about building trust and inspiring change. If you’re looking for ideas, there are many persuasive speaking topics that can ignite passion and drive action.
3. Demonstrative Speeches
These speeches show how something is done. They combine explanation with demonstration. For example, a wellness coach demonstrates breathing techniques while explaining the science behind them.
A demonstrative speech shows your audience how to perform a task or process. Think of a cooking show or a “how-to” video on YouTube. The speaker guides the audience through a process step-by-step, often using visual aids. The goal is practical application.
- Example: A cooking show host teaching a recipe.
My insights as a speaker: In a business coaching session, I might demonstrate how to utilize a tool for effective lead generation. I could also guide a team through a new sales script. The key is to be clear, sequential, and hands-on. You want your audience to walk away feeling confident that they can replicate the process themselves.
4. Entertaining Speeches
An entertaining speech is designed to amuse and delight the audience. This is common at events like after-dinner speeches or award ceremonies. While humor is a big component, it’s not just about telling jokes. It’s about storytelling, wit, and creating a lighthearted, enjoyable atmosphere.
While entertainment may not be the sole purpose, humor and engagement play the lead role. Comedians, after-dinner speakers, and storytellers thrive in these types of speeches.
My insights as a speaker: Even in my most serious talks, I weave in humor and personal anecdotes. It makes the message more relatable and memorable. After all, even when discussing tough topics like mental health, a moment of shared laughter can be incredibly healing.
5. Special Occasion Speeches
These are the speeches that mark the significant moments in our lives: weddings, graduations, funerals, and award ceremonies. They are typically shorter and carry a strong emotional tone. A wedding toast, a eulogy, or an acceptance speech all fall into this category. The content should be personal, sincere, and appropriate for the event. The goal is to honor the person or occasion and share in a collective emotional experience.
- Example: Wedding toasts, retirement speeches.
6. Pitch (Business/Proposal) Speeches
As an entrepreneur who has built a business from the ground up, I know the power of a great pitch. A pitch speech is a type of persuasive speech designed to sell an idea, product, or service. Whether you’re seeking investment or aiming to impress a new client, your pitch must be clear and strong. It should focus on the benefits. It’s about quickly capturing attention and convincing your audience that you have a solution to their problem.
Purpose: To present an idea, product, or project with the aim of gaining approval, funding, or investment.
Example: An entrepreneur presenting to investors.
7. Inspirational (Motivational) Speech
Example: A coach motivating their team before a game.
Purpose: To uplift and encourage the audience to reach goals or overcome challenges.
Types of Speeches Based on Delivery Method
Once you know your purpose, you need to decide how you’ll deliver your message. Your delivery style can make or break your speech. It’s the difference between a talk that captivates and one that falls flat.
8. Extemporaneous Speeches
This is among my preferred methods and the one I usually recommend most. An extemporaneous speech is planned and practiced. It is given using a short set of notes or an outline, not a full script. This method gives you the best of both worlds. It combines the structure of a planned speech with the ease of a natural conversation. It allows me to maintain eye contact, read the room, and adapt my message on the fly. It feels authentic because it is authentic—it’s me, speaking from the heart, guided by a clear structure.
- Example: Being asked to say a few words at a meeting.
9. Impromptu Speeches
An impromptu speech is delivered with little to no preparation. It’s the toast you’re asked to give at a surprise party or the question you’re called on to answer in a meeting. This can be nerve-wracking, but it’s a vital skill. The key is to stay calm, think on your feet, and structure your thoughts quickly. A simple formula is: state your point, provide one or two supporting examples, and then summarize. It’s about clarity, not complexity.
Example: Being asked to say a few words at a meeting.
10. Manuscript Speeches
A manuscript speech is written out word-for-word and read directly to the audience. This method is often used when exact wording is important, such as in a political speech or a CEO’s statement to the press. While it ensures accuracy, the biggest pitfall is sounding robotic and losing connection with your audience. If you need to use a manuscript, practice it. This way, you can speak with vocal variety and keep eye contact.
11. Memorized Speeches
A memorized speech is written out and then committed entirely to memory. When done well, it can be incredibly powerful, allowing for maximum engagement and a polished delivery. However, the risks are high. You might forget your lines, or you might sound rehearsed and disconnected. I’ve seen speakers freeze on stage because they lost their place. If you choose this path, memorize the ideas and structure, not just the words. This gives you the freedom to recover if you stumble.
12. Oratorical (Rhetorical) Speech
Example: Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech.
Purpose: To deliver a powerful, formal address that appeals to values and emotions.
What type of speech is best for you?
So, what type of speech is best for you should be based on your purpose first and foremost. Speeches can generally be grouped into informative, persuasive, entertaining, and ceremonial categories. The 12 types above show different kinds of speeches. They vary based on their purpose, such as teaching, convincing, honoring, or inspiring. They also depend on the context, which can be casual, formal, business, or public.
In closing, what type of speech is best suited for you should vary based on your message, audience, topic, and other factors.
Chart of What Type of Speech is That
Here’s an easy to follow chart that shows a simple “Type of Speech + Purpose” column. It includes an Audience and a Real-Life Example next to each other. This helps explain types of speeches are described and how to apply each one to meet your needs.
| Type of Speech + Purpose | Audience | Real-Life Example |
|---|---|---|
| Informative – To explain or educate about a subject | Students, general public | The teacher is explaining the water cycle. |
| Persuasive – To convince or influence opinions/actions. | Voters, customers, colleagues | A politician urging support for a policy. |
| Demonstrative – To show how to do something step-by-step. | Learners, workshop attendees | Chef teaching a recipe in a cooking class. |
| Entertaining – To amuse, engage, and make the audience enjoy. | General audience, social gatherings | A stand-up comedy show to a more serious type of speech using humor. |
| Ceremonial – To honor, celebrate, or mark an event. | Friends, family, community | Wedding toast or graduation speech. |
| Inspirational – To uplift, encourage, and inspire. | Teams, employees, students | Coach motivating players before a game. |
| Impromptu – To speak without preparation. | Colleagues, friends, unexpected crowd | Saying a few words at a meeting on short notice. |
| Extemporaneous – To speak naturally with preparation but minimal notes | Conference audience, class, workplace | Business presentation with slides. |
| Debate – To argue for/against a motion in a structured format. | Judges, audience, opponents | A school or political debate. |
| Oratorical – To deliver a formal, powerful address appealing to values. | Public, large gatherings | Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream.” |
| Eulogy – To honor and remember someone who has passed away. | Family, friends, mourners | Funeral tribute speech. |
| Pitch – To present an idea/project for approval or funding. | Investors, executives, clients | Entrepreneur pitching to venture capitalists. |
Informational Videos to Master What Type of Speech is Most Powerful
Exploring the 5 Types of Speech Acts
You may have also heard of “what are the 5 types of speech acts” in communication theory. These are not formal speeches delivered on stage but rather categories of how we use language in everyday life:
- Assertive – Statements that convey information.
- Directive – Requests, commands, or advice.
- Commissive – Promises or commitments.
- Expressive – Sharing feelings or emotions.
- Declarative – Statements that change a situation (like declaring a meeting open).
As a speaker, recognizing these different types of speech acts helps you layer your delivery with purpose. A single keynote might weave all five into one narrative.
Choosing the Right Speech Type for Your Style
So, what type of speech is right for you? The answer depends on your personality, your goals, and your audience. Finding your unique style is a journey of self-discovery.
Matching Your Delivery Style to the Right Speech Type
Now that you know the various types of speeches, how do you decide which one fits you best? Consider three factors:
- Your Message – Are you here to teach, persuade, inspire, or celebrate?
- Your Audience – What do they need most from you right now?
- Your Style – Do you thrive on storytelling, humor, practical teaching, or direct motivation?
When I began speaking, I leaned heavily on persuasive speeches because I wanted to inspire. Over time, I found that blending informative speeches into my presentations made my message even more impactful. That balance allowed me to speak to the heart and the mind at the same time.
If you want to align your message with your true self, I have some tips for you. You can find them in the resources below. Now, let’s continue with what type of speech is best for you.
Self-Assessment: Knowing Your Strengths
Start by understanding yourself. Are you a natural storyteller? Do you excel at breaking down complex topics? Are you comfortable with humor? My own journey taught me the power of vulnerability. Sharing my struggles with addiction isn’t easy, but it’s my truth, and it allows me to connect with people on a profound level. Take a look at your own life and experiences. What makes you uniquely you? A tool like my 365° Leadership Assessment can help you identify your natural strengths and communication style.
Matching Purpose to Delivery
Your goal should dictate your method. If you’re giving a highly technical presentation, a manuscript or a well-rehearsed extemporaneous speech might be best. If you’re leading a team meeting, an impromptu or extemporaneous style will feel more collaborative and engaging. For the motivational talks I give at my events, I use an extemporaneous style because it allows me to feed off the energy of the crowd and speak directly to their hearts.
Analyzing Your Audience
Who are you speaking to? What do they already know? What do they expect from you? Tailoring your message to your audience is one of the most important public speaking tips I can offer. When I talk to a group of new entrepreneurs, my tone and content change. They are different from when I speak to people in recovery. Understanding your audience’s needs and expectations helps you build rapport and ensure your message lands effectively.
Practical Tips to Elevate Any Type of Speech
Regardless of which format you choose, here are a few tips to ensure your speech lands powerfully:
- Start with a story – Human beings connect with narratives more than facts.
- Use emotional highs and lows – Great speeches are like music; they have rhythm and flow.
- Engage your audience – Ask questions, invite participation, and speak with your audience, not at them.
- End with impact – Whether it’s a call to action, a challenge, or a heartfelt closing, give your audience something to carry with them.
Mastering Your Unique Speech Style
o, what type of speech is best fitting for your delivery style, message, and audience? The answer lies in your ability to align your purpose with the format that amplifies it most. Whether you’re exploring types of informative speeches, types of persuasive speeches, or simply reflecting on the different types of speech, your authenticity will always be your most persuasive element.
When you speak from truth and experience, you not only inform or persuade—you transform.
Your voice is one of the most powerful instruments you possess. It can build businesses, heal relationships, and inspire movements. But finding your voice and learning how to use it is a process of trial and error. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Try different types of speeches and delivery methods. Record yourself, ask for feedback, and embrace the learning process.
I went from being a man silenced by shame to a speaker who empowers thousands. I did it by embracing my story, learning the craft of communication, and committing to a life of growth. You have a unique story and a unique voice. Your journey is your strength. It’s time to find your style, step into your power, and share your message with the world.
If you’re ready to take the next step and elevate your communication skills, I encourage you to explore resources that can guide you. My Art of Public Speaking Classes are designed to help you do just that. Let’s unlock your potential, together.
Popular types of speeches FAQs
What type of speech is best for beginners?
Wondering what type of speech is best for someone starting out? The best type of speech for beginners is usually an informative speech. It allows new speakers to share knowledge clearly without the pressure of persuasion.
What are the 5 types of speech acts?
The five types of speech acts are assertive, directive, commissive, expressive, and declarative. These categories explain how we use language to share information, request, promise, express feelings, or declare changes. What type of speech is your preferracnce. Comment below.
What are the different types of speeches?
The most common types of speeches are informative, persuasive, demonstrative, entertaining, and special occasion speeches. Each serves a different purpose depending on your audience and message. what type of speech is your fall back style.
What type of speech is persuasive?
Wondering what type of speech is persuasive? A persuasive speech is one that convinces the audience to adopt a belief, take action, or change their behavior. It blends logic, credibility, and emotion to inspire action.
How do I know what type of speech is right for my audience?
Wondering what type of speech is best of your audience? To decide, consider your message, your delivery style, and your audience’s needs. For example, a classroom may need an informative approach, while a fundraiser may benefit from a persuasive speech.
More Resources:
To become the best version of yourself through communication, find guides below that help you grow, lead, and inspire.
- Join Ryan Zofay’s Events, Seminars, and Workshops For Success.
- 108 Best Ever Positive Motivational Quotes for the Work Week & Beyond.
- Informative speech Outline Example for Public Speaking.
- My Best 10 public speaking tips & How to Become a Good Public Speaker
- 111+ Best Ever Positive, Encouraging & Funny inspirational Quotes for Work Team
- Master Lead Generation for Real Estate That Actually Works
- Life is Too Short Quotes that are Inspirational, Funny, About Relationships Grudges & Love for Growth
- Ryan Zofay 365° Leadership Assessment
- Inspirational Quotes About Mental Health to Lift You Up for Healing Recovery & Growth
- 101 Best Ever Persuasive Speaking Topics to Transform Your Business & Life
- Beyond eBook Hunter: personal development & business coaching books for success
- Watch The Best Life Coaches Videos
