Things to Avoid When You Start your Speech

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Introduction: How to Start a Speech Powerfully and Avoid Common Opening Mistakes

This video explains why the first moments of your speech matter so much and why certain habits instantly weaken your impact. You’ll learn which opening lines to avoid, why apologies undermine confidence and how a strong, clear start sets your audience up to listen.

What you’ll learn: Strong Speech Openings That Engage Your Audience

• The common “no-nos” that weaken the start of a speech
• Why apologies and excuses damage your credibility
• How to open with confidence and purpose
• How to show your audience why your talk matters to them
• Simple ways to make the first few seconds count

Summary: Opening Your Speech with Strength and Confidence

The beginning of a speech shapes how your audience feels about the rest of your talk. Apologising, lowering expectations or telling people it won’t be very good guarantees a poor start. Instead, open with confidence. Tell your audience why the next few minutes matter to them and what they will gain by listening. When you make a strong, positive start, people settle, focus and feel ready to engage.

Mini FAQ: Starting a Speech the Right Way

What should I avoid in my opening?
Apologies, excuses or anything that signals low confidence. These weaken your authority immediately.

Why does the opening matter so much?
It sets the tone. A strong start helps your audience trust you and engage with your message.

How can I make my opening more engaging?
Tell your audience why the talk is relevant to them and what they’ll gain from the next few minutes.

Should I start with a joke?
Only if it suits your style and the context. Relevance and confidence matter more than humour.

Transcript (edited)

There are a number of no-nos at the beginning of a speech. Giving an apology, making an excuse or telling people the talk won’t be very good — all of that is a no. If you do that, you’re guaranteed a poor start. Start powerfully. Start strongly. Begin by telling the audience why the next few minutes are going to be interesting for them.

Suggested Links

• Create a strong opening for your speech
• Engage your audience from the first sentence
• Build confidence in your delivery
• Shape a clear message that supports a powerful start

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