As the introducer, you are the connector – the broker – between the speaker and the audience. Here are important points in when introducing the speaker for the event.

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Time frame

Spend only 30-60 seconds of introduction time for five- to 15-minute speeches, and only one to five minutes of introduction time for speeches 15 minutes or longer. 

Cue the audience.

Use your voice and gestures to alert the audience that it’s time for the speaker to approach the lectern.  Increase your voice volume and pitch in the last two or three sentences to create expectancy and excitement.  A crescendo effect similar to the traditional drum role will cue the audience.  At the same time, extend an outstretched arm toward the speaker while looking at the audience, not the speaker.  This gesture not only preps the audience to begin the applause, but indicates to the speaker it’s time to step to the lectern.  Hold the outstretched arm a second or two then lead the welcoming applause.  You, of course, should remain at the lectern until the speaker arrives, offering a handshake to welcome the speaker and to symbolically transfer control of the meeting.  Sounds simple?  Sure, but here are some precautions.

  • Don’t describe your speaker in terms of personal relationships unless they are relevant to the topic or the group. 
  • Never use the possessive term “wife of…” or “husband of…” The speaker is obviously recognized for his or her own abilities.  Only if relevant or when speaking in behalf of the spouse, the speaker’s spouse can be mentioned with the words “her spouse is…” or he is married to..”
  • Avoid praising the keynote’s style and delivery – it may divert audience attention away from the message.
  • Don’t introduce with inside jokes unless the entire group is in on them.
  • Never let the audience get to the point where they’re glad to see you sit down.

Carefully plan, develop and deliver a meaningful introduction with the philosophy of Franklin D. Roosevelt: “Be sincere.  Be brief.  Be seated.”