Engaging Openings: Captivate Your Audience from the Start
Engaging Openings: Captivate Your Audience from the Start
Engaging Openings: Captivate Your Audience from the Start
The first few minutes in front of an audience are crucial. The more engaging you are, the more they’ll be hooked on your every word.
One effective technique is to share a story with a twist. Start with something like, “Imagine if…” and then conclude with, “Now, what if I told you that actually happened to me?” This approach draws them into the narrative, lets them experience it as if it’s happening to them, and then reveals it’s a true story.
Relate everyday occurrences to your topic. This shifts their perspective from skepticism to understanding. They “see” the logic because they “felt” it in your opening.
For example, in the U.S., we have stoplights at intersections, making us wait for the green light. In Italy, they use roundabouts. You drive around until you find your exit, never having to stop.
Previously, our projects were like American stoplights, waiting for the green light. Now, we’ll run them like Italian roundabouts, with continuous movement and brief intersections. Today, I’ll explain how this new process works, why we’re implementing it, and how it benefits you.
For more tips on crafting compelling openings, check out Anne’s book, Outcome Focus® Approach: How to Structure Your Message so They Hear It. It’s packed with examples on openings, closings, and everything in between to help you structure your message for the best outcome. Visit the Product tab and click on Books to learn more.