How to Introduce a Speaker: The Art of Giving (and Receiving) a Great Introduction
By MARK WESTBROOk - PUBLIC SPEAKING COACH
Imagine you’re in the audience, waiting for a keynote speaker. The host steps up, fumbles with some papers, mumbles a few words, mispronounces the speaker’s name, and gestures vaguely toward the stage.
Cringe.
Not only is this awkward for the speaker, but it also signals to the audience that they might as well check their emails, refresh Twitter, or daydream about lunch.
A great introduction isn’t just a courtesy—it’s a strategic moment. It primes the audience, builds credibility, and sets the speaker up for success.
Yet, most introductions are dull, rushed, or outright disastrous.
Let’s fix that. Here’s how to introduce a speaker properly—and if you’re the one being introduced, how to make sure it’s done right.
Why Introductions Matter More Than You Think
Think about a movie trailer. A good one gets you excited—it teases the best bits, sets the tone, and makes you want to watch.
A bad introduction is like a terrible movie trailer—one that’s long, confusing, and leaves the audience unsure whether they should even bother paying attention.
An effective introduction answers three core questions before the speaker even begins:
Why should I pay attention? – What’s in it for the audience?
Why should I care? – How is this topic relevant to them?
Why is this speaker worth listening to? – What makes them an authority?
If the introduction fails to answer these, the audience tunes out. And once they’re gone, good luck getting them back.
An introduction isn’t a formality—it’s a launchpad for the entire presentation.
The Anatomy of a Great Introduction
An introduction doesn’t have to be long-winded. In fact, the best ones are short, sharp, and purposeful.
Every introduction should answer three essential questions:
1. Why This Speaker?
This is where you establish credibility—but don’t make it a dry bio. Nobody cares where the speaker went to university (unless it’s directly relevant). Instead, focus on their real-world experience and achievements.
Bad example:
"Dr. Jane Smith has a PhD in Organizational Psychology and has been in the industry for 20 years."
yawn.
Great example:
"Dr. Jane Smith has spent two decades helping leaders build trust, drive performance, and transform workplace culture. Her research has shaped policies in Fortune 500 companies, and today, she’s going to share those insights with you."
See the difference? One is a fact dump. The other builds authority and anticipation.
2. Why This Subject?
An audience is always thinking: Why does this matter to me? Answer that question before they even have to ask.
Bad example:
"Today’s talk is about leadership."
So what?
Great example:
"In a world where attention spans are shrinking and distractions are everywhere, knowing how to communicate effectively isn’t optional—it’s a superpower. Today, we’re going to learn how to cut through the noise and actually be heard."
Now the audience is intrigued.
3. Why This Audience?
This is where you create a connection between the speaker and the audience.
Bad example:
"Our speaker is here to talk about marketing."
yawn (again).
Great example:
"You’re here because you want your ideas to stand out. Whether you’re leading a team, pitching a project, or selling a product, how you communicate determines your success. Our speaker today will show you exactly how to do that."
Now, the audience feels involved.
The Secret Ingredient: Anticipation
The best introductions don’t just inform—they build excitement.
Think about a TED Talk. The best ones make you lean forward in your seat, eager to hear what’s coming next. Your introduction should do the same.
Bad introduction:
"Next up is Dr. Jane Smith. She has a PhD in Organizational Psychology and has been in the industry for 20 years. She’ll be talking about leadership."
yawn (again, again).
Great introduction:
"Imagine walking into a room and instantly earning the respect of everyone there. Imagine leading a team that actually wants to follow you. Our next speaker has spent 20 years unlocking the secrets of powerful leadership—and today, she’s going to share them with you. Please welcome Dr. Jane Smith!"
That’s how you hook an audience.
How to End an Introduction the Right Way
You’ve built up momentum. Now don’t drop the ball at the finish line. The last few seconds of your introduction should do three things:
1. Give the audience a cue to welcome the speaker.
Example:
"Please join me in welcoming [Speaker’s Name]!"
It’s simple, but it signals enthusiasm and energy.
2. Lead the applause.
Your enthusiasm sets the tone. Clap like you mean it—otherwise, the audience might respond with weak, awkward claps.
3. Shake their hand.
It’s a small thing, but a handshake anchors the transition. It visually passes control from you to the speaker, making the shift smooth and natural.
Speakers: Take Control of Your Own Introduction
Let’s flip this around.
If you are the speaker, don’t assume the host will do a good job introducing you. Most won’t.
Your job? Make it easy for them.
Write your own introduction. Don’t leave it to chance.
Keep it short (no more than 3-4 sentences). Nobody needs a novel.
Send it in advance—and bring a printed copy. Just in case.
If you don’t, you might end up with an introduction that’s too long, too vague, or completely inaccurate.
You’ve worked too hard on your speech to start off on the wrong foot.
The Worst Mistakes People Make
Reading a long bio verbatim. Nobody cares what year the speaker graduated.
Trying to be funny (and failing). Embarrassing the speaker? Not a good look.
Speaking too long. Your job is to introduce, not steal the show.
Short. Sharp. Energized. That’s how you do it.
The Power of a Pre-Recorded Introduction
Want a foolproof way to guarantee a great introduction?
Record a 2-3 minute video introduction that event organizers can play before you go on stage.
It ensures consistency. No more botched intros.
It builds excitement with high-quality visuals.
It gives the audience the perfect setup.
If you’re a regular speaker, this is a game-changer.
Final Thought: Are You Going to Get This Right?
If you think introductions don’t matter, you’re wrong.
A weak introduction drains the energy from the room. A strong one electrifies it.
So here’s your challenge:
If you’re introducing someone, do it properly. Make them look great.
If you’re the speaker, take control. Don’t leave it to chance.
Because a speech that starts strong?
It’s halfway to success before the first word is even spoken.
Now go make it happen.
