Voice Tips

Opening a week-long conference with a welcome speech is a huge deal.

It’s not just what you say, but how you say it that sets the bar for the whole event. So you need to set it high, and really win over the audience.

Here’s 5 things to keep in mind when preparing for a welcome speech:

1️⃣ On the day, be off-script. You don’t want to be looking at your notes when delivering.

2️⃣  Rehearse at the venue. 24 hrs before, deliver your welcome speech on the stage, preferably in front of someone for feedback.

3️⃣ Project your voice. Nothing wins over an audience more than a strong (but authentic), engaging voice.

4️⃣ Enthusiasm is infectious. Say “I’m delighted to be here today” like you really are delighted. Say “It’s great to be here today” like you really do feel great.

5️⃣ Bring presence to the forefront. Your gesture, posture, eyes, smile – they should all work together to add that ‘je ne sais quoi’ to your speech.

Do all these things and you are guaranteed to win the audience over.

And that’s exactly what  Guy Malpas FRAeS did to me rehearsing for his welcome speech for the Cathay Pacific Safety Week conference. Excellent work Guy – you nailed it!