How can you create a memorable introduction at a conference?

1 Start with a hook

A hook is a sentence or a story that sparks curiosity, emotion, or surprise in your listeners. It can be a personal anecdote, a shocking statistic, a provocative question, a relevant quote, or a humorous observation. The purpose of a hook is to grab the attention of your audience and make them want to hear more. A good hook should relate to your topic, your main message, and your audience's needs or interests.

2 Introduce yourself

After you've hooked your audience, you need to introduce yourself and explain why you're qualified to speak on your topic. Don't just list your credentials or achievements; instead, highlight how your background, experience, or perspective can benefit your audience or add value to your presentation. For example, you can mention how you solved a problem, achieved a goal, or learned a lesson that relates to your topic. You can also share your passion, enthusiasm, or curiosity for your subject.

3 Preview your presentation

The last part of your introduction is to give your audience a roadmap of what you're going to cover in your presentation. This helps them to follow along, anticipate what's coming next, and understand how your points are connected. You can preview your presentation by stating your main idea, outlining your key points, or explaining your objectives or outcomes. You can also include a hook or a teaser that hints at something interesting or surprising that you'll reveal later in your presentation.

4 Keep it brief and clear

Your introduction should not take more than 10% of your total presentation time. You don't want to bore your audience with too much information or lose their interest with too many details. You also want to avoid jargon, acronyms, or technical terms that might confuse your audience or make them feel excluded. Use simple, direct, and engaging language that speaks to your audience and conveys your message clearly.

5 Practice and refine

The best way to create a memorable introduction is to practice and refine it until you feel confident and comfortable with it. You can practice in front of a mirror, a recorder, a friend, or a colleague and ask for feedback. You can also time yourself and adjust your introduction accordingly. You want to make sure that your introduction flows smoothly, sounds natural, and matches your personality and style.

A memorable introduction can set you apart from other speakers and make a lasting impression on your audience. By following these tips, you can create a captivating opening that will draw your audience in, establish your credibility, and prepare them for your presentation.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?