“A PREPARATION CHECKLIST
Please don’t be intimidated by the length of the following checklist for preparing a speech from an outline—the ideal method. The checklist will save you time in preparing your next speech. A. Preparing 1. Evaluate your audience. Be aware, in advance, of their special interests, expertise, and desires or aspirations, so you can be sure to address them appropriately. 2. Consider the occasion. Your approach can be influenced by an event celebrated by the group, such as a holiday, anniversary, retirement, or announcement. 3. Determine the length of your talk. Always come in a bit shorter than you’re budgeted, and your audience will be surprised—and grateful. 4. Determine the purpose of your speech: a. To entertain b. To inform c. To inspire d. To persuade Good speeches often combine elements of all four. 5. Decide on a central theme that can be written down in a single sentence. If you can’t write your theme on the back of a business card, it’s too complicated. 6. To aid your confidence, develop background knowledge in the speech area. You must do some of your own preparation. 7. Gather facts. Do research. Be sure your remarks are relevant to the interests of the group. 8. Consider the makeup of the audience and its present attitude toward you. For hostile or skeptical audiences, you will need to show that you understand all sides of the issue. For supportive audiences, your job is to reaffirm values. 9. Find a good opening line or story that relates to the speech. If it doesn’t interest you, it won’t interest your audience. 10. Possible speech structures include: Past—Present—Future Write down three to five questions the audience might ask of you—and answer them as the body of your speech”

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