Book Sharing

VPE Ulu Pandan TMC, CL Terence Chiew

15-08-2003

Getting Really Excited About Toastmasters!
 
Fellow Toastmasters
 
I like to share with you some speech writing tips which I've read in the book, "How to Say It Best" authored by Jack Griffin.
 
To write a good speech, you have to
1.  Make it simple
2.  Make it short
 
To write a great speech, you have to
1.  Make it simpler
2.  Make it shorter
 
 
You can try this formula for a successful speech,
1.  Tell them what you're going to tell them
2.  Tell them
3.  Tell them what you've told them
 
 
 
Some opening strategies that have proven effective:
 
1.  Jump right in with a declaration of your subject: "Tonight, I will speak to you about...." Assuming your subject is interest to your audience, this no-nonsense approach is quite effective
 
2.  Jump right with an offer.  "I am here to tell you how to improve your sex life by at least 80%."
 
3.  Conjure with the title of your speech.  "I've titled my speech 'Three Bags Full.'  You have every right to ask: full of waht?"
 
 
 
Some useful methods to organise your speech body:
 
1.  Chronology (a narrative of events from first to last)
 
2.  Cause and effect, or before and after
 
3.  Need and fulfillment, or problem and solution
 
 
 
Your speech should "add up" to a logically justifiable conclusion.
 
1.  End by referring to your opening.  "I began by stating such and such.  I would like to conclude on the same note."
 
2.  Review the main ideas of your speech
 
3.  End with an anecdote or story that illustrates your main point(s).
 
4.  End with an inspiring quotation
 
5.  End with a rhetorical question.  "Is this kind of school board want?  Are we satisfied that we have the best school system possible?"
 
6.  End with a call to actin or thought
 
 
Well, these are some tips that you can learn and use to write your next speech (Share with your members too).  The key to becoming a good speaker is not to afraid of making mistakes as learning is a lifelong process.  PRACTICE, PRACTICE and PRACTICE.
 
Till we chance upon each other, I wish you all the best in achieving your speaking goals with Toastmasters and let us excel together.
 
 
Yours truly,
 

Terence Chiew CL

VP-Education (2003/04)
Ulu Pandan Toastmasters Club (Area Z4, Club No. 5205)