When I got into speaking, people watched DVR’s and listened to CD’s and memorization was the thing.
Top speakers memorized a script and then did their thing with slides, video, maybe a little theatre-storytelling.
It never worked for me.
For one reason, I found it hard to memorize a speech, plus it put me at risk of forgetting my lines and freezing. Not good for me – definitely not good for the audience.
Instead, I use a process to design an awesome speech, summarize it and then, finally prepare the brief notes I’ll bring on stage with me (read the steps I take to prepare a speech here.)
On the other hand, I do memorize my opening and close.
When I kick off my speech I want it to be flawless and have the audience leaning in. That part is memorized.
When I close I want to present a summary and bring the audiences’ energy up – it’s important I’m relaxed and, at the same time, delivering a high-energy close. I need that part well crafted and memorized.
My friend, Michael Port says “A good speech is a conversation with the audience.” My conversations aren’t memorized – neither are my speeches.
BOSS Tips are quick lessons about the business of speaking. See more BOSS Tips by clicking the category “BOSS Tips”.
Jeanette Black says
July 16, 2017 at 11:01 amYour method of explaining the whole thing in this post is in fact pleasant, everyone be capable of effortlessly be aware of it, Thanks a lot.
Hugh Culver says
July 17, 2017 at 7:17 amThanks Jeanette – I appreciate your comment!