04/21/2026
Five Tips to a Successful Speech
Whether speaking to a small group or a large audience, ensure your speech is memorable and enjoyable. Follow these five tips:
• Be prepared. Your audience is giving you their time and consideration, so rehearse enough to be confident and make a good impression.
• Start strong. Begin with a powerful opening that will grab your audience's attention, such as a startling fact or statistic, an interesting story or a funny joke.
• Be conversational. Avoid reading your speech word for word. Instead, refer to notes or points from an outline to help your speech have a more free-flowing, conversational tone.
• Speak with passion. If you're truly invested in what you're saying, you'll be better able to keep your audience's attention.
• Be patient. It's easy to get frustrated if you make a mistake. But remember that public speaking is not easy and it takes time to hone your skills. Keep practicing and you will reach your goals.
Bonus 6th tip: Join WE Toasted Toastmasters! We meet Thursdays, noon-1 p.m. Pacific Time in person at 40 McNary Parkway, Lake Oswego, Oregon 97035, or via Zoom.
