Speech Tips

Putting Pizazz in Special Occasion Speeches
Sheila Allee

Occasionally, you may be called upon to introduce a speaker or hand out an award or give a commencement address. These fall in the category of Special Occasion Speeches. And they call for special techniques to make them interesting and even memorable.

There is one general guideline I like to follow when preparing a special occasion speech. Here's where audience research is especially important.

You've got to know as much as possible about the occasion -- who'll be listening to you and the context in which you'll be speaking. These details may become fodder for your speech, for they will certainly add color and interest to your remarks.

Now, let's look at the three types of special occasion speeches and talk about how to handle them:

The Introduction

Rule No. 1 is avoid at all costs making the introduction sound like you're reading a resume. You may want to include some basic facts in your introduction, like where the person is from and what qualifies them to speak at this occasion.

But to make an introduction interesting, you'll need to find something unique and unusual about the individual. Maybe he/she just ran the Boston Marathon or raises prize-winning roses.

Introductions should always be brief -- about a minute or two. And they should generate audience enthusiasm for the person being introductions. And finally, be sure to say the person's name several times so the audience can remember it.

The Award Presentation

This is another form of introduction, but with a special twist. You not only want to honor the individual, you want to honor the ideal he/she represents. When an employee does an outstanding job, when someone retires after long service to a company, when an individual makes a tremendous civic contribution, be sure to mention the impact and the spirit behind the accomplishment.

In presenting an award, pour on the praise and be specific about what the person has done to earn the honor. Ask family, friends and co-workers to share special memories that make good stories for your presentation.

Commencement

In giving the commencement address, remember one thing above all else: Keep it brief. Ten to 15 minutes tops. Go longer at your own peril.

I heard of a commencement speaker at a recent event who droned on for an hour about politics. I also heard about the groans that rippled through the audience.

Not only should you keep it brief, you should also try to say something memorable. Now that may take some work, but again, audience research can save the day. Knowing the issues and and concerns of the graduates can point the way to some compelling words.

So when it comes to special occasion speeches, treat them with special care. Do your audience research, strive to be interesting and do the occasion justice. It's the least your listeners deserve.

BONUS TIP OF THE MONTH:

What to wear when you speak -- For most business functions, dress conservatively and stay away from new clothes that haven't been broken in. Men should wear a dark suit -- Navy blue is best. A woman should wear a suit or dress of the same color. In general, women should stay away from jangling jewelry and high heels. Men should wear a white shirt and conservative tie. If you're not sure what to wear, your audience research will give you clues about dress.

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