ABSTRACT
The art of speechwriting, in which someone crafts a speech for another person to present, lies at the heart of one of the key functions of public relations, giving advice and counsel. A speech is the primary example of face-to-face communication, the most effective kind of communication. Speeches before live audiences provide an environment for two-way communication. People preparing oral presentations strive for a conversational tone rooted in the natural rhythms appropriate to the individual speaker. Good interviewees use their time in front of the microphones to give audiences a feeling about an organization, such as the passion with which it pursues its ideal, the depth of its commitment to customer service. Without betraying confidences, the interview giver should provide honest and complete information. Interviews with leaders of nonprofit organizations usually find a smoother environment, unless the organization is dealing with a scandal or has not been forthcoming in a negative situation.
