How to Start Your Presentation – Video

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Introduction: How to Build Rapport with Your Audience at the Start of a Presentation

This video explains why rapport is essential for any successful presentation. You’ll learn how early research helps you understand your audience, how the first few minutes set the tone and how small, well-chosen opening remarks can show people you genuinely understand their needs.

What you’ll learn: Building Audience Rapport in the First Minutes

• Why research is the foundation of strong audience rapport
• How to understand what matters most to your audience
• What to say in the opening minutes to show relevance and empathy
• How small comments can make your audience feel understood
• Why rapport leads to a more engaged and receptive room

Summary: Creating Genuine Connection at the Start of Your Talk

Rapport doesn’t happen by accident — it begins before you step on stage. When you understand your audience’s priorities, concerns and expectations, you can shape your opening remarks to show that you’re there to help them. The first two or three minutes are critical. A few thoughtful comments that speak directly to their needs can shift the atmosphere from passive listening to genuine engagement. When your audience feel seen and understood, they’re far more open to your message and more willing to follow your argument.

Mini FAQ: Building Rapport in Presentations

How do I build rapport quickly?
Show that you know who your audience are and what matters to them. Use the opening minutes to demonstrate relevance.

Why does research matter?
It helps you tailor your message so your audience feel recognised and understood before you get into the detail.

What should I say in the first minutes?
A few remarks that reflect their challenges, goals or context — something that signals you’re on their side.

Why is rapport important?
It creates trust, makes your audience more receptive and improves the impact of your entire presentation.

Transcript (edited)

Building rapport with your audience is a very important part of giving a good presentation or speech. It begins with the research you do, so you know who your audience are and what’s important to them. It continues with what you say in the first two or three minutes — the small things that show you care about the audience, understand their issues and plan to help them over the next few minutes.

Suggested Links

• Understand what your audience want
• Shape a strong opening for your presentation
• Build trust with your audience quickly
• Create messages that resonate with your listeners

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