Public Speaking

Introductions (^251)
and for speeches that inspire, reinforce values, and (often) entertain. In addition,
Diversity in Practice: Organizational Culture describes some aspects of organiza-
tional culture that affect your speech.

Introductions

When strangers first meet, they want to know “Who is this person?” “What do we have

in common?” “What brings her here?” Introductions are short informative speeches

that provide the facts people need to interact effectively with a newcomer. You might

introduce a classmate, a new coworker, or a speaker at a special event. In each situation,

keep your introduction brief. Chapter 2 provided guidelines for introducing a class-

mate. Here are some tips for introducing an unfamiliar person to your school or work

environment:

•   Provide the newcomer’s name and job title, if applicable.

•   Give a few details about the person’s educational and occupational background as

well as personal characteristics or accomplishments that will help the audience know

a little more about him or her.

•   Close by welcoming the newcomer to the group.

Here is a sample introduction of a new faculty member in an elementary school.

Notice that it briefly presents her qualifications and provides the current faculty and

staff with enough information about her background and some of her interests that they

can interact effectively with her.

This year, we are pleased to welcome a new faculty member, Cornelia Baily-Hunter,

who will be joining us as our music specialist.

Cornelia received her BA in Music Education from Indiana University, South Bend,

and her Master’s of Music Education from Penn State. Her passion for music in a

child’s life dates back to her elementary school days when a very patient orchestra

teacher introduced her to the joys of playing the oboe. She marched in the band in

high school, joined the university’s orchestra, and earned tuition money by play-

ing in a woodwind quartet that performed at weddings and other social functions.

Before moving here to the Southwest to be closer to family, she taught for six years in

Pennsylvania.

Cornelia, we’re glad you’re here. We know you will be a great addition to the

faculty.

To introduce a guest speaker, include some information about the occasion that

precipitated the invitation as well as about the actual speaker. Here are some elements to

include in such speeches:

•   Greetings and/or a welcome to the group

•   A statement about the occasion

•   Announcement of the speaker’s name and topic

•   A brief account of the speaker’s background, education, training, achievements, per-

sonality, or any other salient information that relates to the topic or the audience

Be prepared to make a few closing remarks after the talk. Briefly thank the speaker,

and make a simple, short reference to the central idea of the speech.

Read, highlight, and take

notes online.

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