On Feb. 16, I’m giving a 20-minute talk on what a speechwriter does and how smart business, education and government leaders use speeches to accomplish their business and communications goals.
I plan to start my talk with very brief examples of three types of openings tied to my subject matter – one based on the date of the talk (in history); one based on the place of the talk – Indianapolis’ historic Columbia Club, founded in 1889; and then, for fun, to show a lively two-minute music video I produced for an IBM executive that set the stage for her remarks on how computers change the face of classroom learning.
Too much?
Then, I plan to cover the basics of speechwriting: how to ID, analyze and pursue the best speaking opportunities; analyze the audience so you write with their needs in mind; help your client focus the purpose and message of the talk; research the content; find and write to your speaker’s voice; edit and finalize the talk with your executive’s input. After the speech is given, use evaluation sheets to gauge the success of the talk, and “after-market” the speech to additional print and Web audiences.
However, as I know you can appreciate, I want to infuse my remarks with something more than just the method or process of speechwriting; I want to talk about giving your speech a heart.
To my mind, that’s writing a speech that inspires an audience to believe they can make a “dent in the universe.” A speech that encourages an audience to commit to a cause greater than themselves. And a speech that uses the beauty of words, just the right turn of phrase or quote that makes the talk come alive and have lasting impact.
Am I asking too much of my 20-minute talk?
I’m hoping the many wonderful speechwriters who read this blog will give me some thoughts and ideas.
If you were giving a 20-minute talk about the process of speechwriting and wanted to cover the most important aspects, what would you say?
Thank you so much for your help.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
“Knowledge is limited but imagination covers the world” Lead your audience to imagine what could be. The possibilities are endless.
The opportunity to connect with an audience–to hear their heart beat–is an inherent part of giving a speech. I agree with Ken: knowledge is an important component, but being able to convey that knowledge in a way that resonates with the audience is the ultimate goal. You do need to discuss process–all good points–but you can’t overlook connection as a means to effective communication.
Your opening will be a hit — great imagery. I agree with the comments above. Knowledge is important, but it sounds like your passion is to explain how to give your speech HEART. So speak from the heart, and go light and simple on the technical side and heavy on the heart side. I’m sure your deliver will be fantastic.