The Speech of Introduction

COMMENTARY It is not unusual in leadership situations for a public speaker to be introduced to the audience by another speaker. This common speaking situation may be lightly regarded as a routine presentation, but a little reflection on the speech of introduction reveals that there is more to it than first appears. The starting point for preparing a speech of introduction is to consider how the introducer situates himself or herself in the overall rhetorical transaction. In other words, where does the introducer stand in relationship to the participants in the event? Do you see yourself as speaking on behalf of the audience in welcoming the speaker? If so, some of your remarks will be directed to the speaker. Or do you see yourself speaking on behalf of the event’s sponsor in welcoming both the speaker and the audience? In these cases, it may be necessary to introduce the topic as well as the speaker. Perhaps the most common approach is to see the introducer as speaking on behalf of the speaker to the audience. Regardless of how you see your role in the overall event, it is important to keep in mind that when you give a speech of introduction, it is not about you, it’s about others. Your job is to draw attention to the speaker, the topic, or the audience in such a way that the speaking event is satisfying to the greatest possible extent to all those involved. The speech of introduction is a service to others.