How to Introduce a Speaker
by Trainer : Marius Vasile
Proper introduction at a training course is important. Participants attending the course expect to hear and see qualified trainers in action and good introductions can help greatly to establish prestige for the staff. Here are some suggestions:
Give the full name carefully. Avoid the use of nicknames.
Tell about the trainer's Scouting experience: what Scouting jobs he or she has held, how long he or she has served, special recognitions or awards.
Tell about any family involvement in Scouting; for example, children's Scouting ranks and ages, etc. But be brief!
Tell what the trainer's function is in the training course and why he or she was selected for this particular assignment.
Avoid horseplay in making introductions.
Sometimes there will be guest speakers at training courses. They need a slightly different type of introduction:
1. Be brief. You are the introducer, not the speaker. Don't take up his or her time.
2. Avoid clichés and stale or stilted phrases such as "This speaker needs no introduction" or "We are gathered here tonight."
3. Briefly answer the following questions:
Why is the subject of interest in general?
Why is it of interest to this particular audience?
Why is this speaker the one to present it?
4. Give the speaker and his or her ability to handle the subject a sincere buildup but don't put him or her on the spot by overselling.
5. Save the speaker's name until last. The speaker's name is usually recognized as the signal for him or her to rise and come forward. Don't embarrass him or her by giving it before you are ready for him or her.
6. Make his or her name the climax of your introduction by pausing before it, saying it clearly, and raising your voice a bit. "I am pleased to present (short pause) Mr. Donald Smith or Ms. Mary Jones."
7. Remain facing the audience until you have finished saying the name, then quickly turn to the speaker for their acknowledgment.
8. You will want to be sure to thank the speaker after he or she has finished, and if appropriate, offer congratulations on the presentation.
