Begin with a bang - how to nail presentation openings
- Paul Speirs
- May 19
- 3 min read
Hey y’all
“Sorry I’m late. This is the AA meeting, isn’t it?”
It’s a time-worn gag used by many a latecomer. But as cheesy as it is, there’s something in it worth digging into. First, it’s a settler and it melts the ice. Second, it instantly signals to the room that they're in the right place, right from the get-go. (Okay, bad example, as your presentation is unlikely to be that kind of AA meeting, but you get the point.)
If you need further convincing, look to the professionals. A stand-up comedian’s absolute priority is to get to the first laugh as quickly as possible. Sure, it makes the comic feel good, but more importantly, it instantly reminds the audience why they're there: for a laugh. If they instead wander onto the stage, spend a minute adjusting the mic stand, and mumble about the traffic, the room goes cold. As a transport planner who’s spoken on stages around the world, I know that chilly feeling oh so well! 😜
It’s exactly the same for any talk or presentation. To earn the room’s trust, you have to begin with a bang. Let them know why they're there and why they should care about what’s to follow.
Some don'ts to avoid. Don't begin with admin.
“Can you hear me at the back?”
“Is this clicker thing working?”
“Before I start, here’s a little bit about me and our 53 global offices.”
That just sucks the energy right out of the room.
Instead, look for the "Big Bang Beginning." It gives the room an early signal that you understand their expectations and you’re here to deliver. It creates an immediate contract between you and the listener: I have something valuable, and I won’t waste your time.
Plus, nail your opening, and it naturally helps shape and streamline the rest of your content.
"You never get a second chance to make a first impression." Will Rogers, the 'Cowboy Philosopher'
Next time you step up, try one of these three entry points instead:
Stir the pot: Start with something provocative. "Everything you’ve been told about polite British small talk is wrong. And in the next twenty minutes, I'll show you why."
Ask a literal, relatable question: Use a simple "Have you ever...?" prompt. Avoid open-ended questions like "Who has...?" or "How many of you...?" Go for a strong, binary Yes/No question to get immediate, agreement in the room.
Invite a physical action: Get them moving early. Either a classic "Raise your hand if..." or asking them to turn to the person next to them to share what they want from the session.
Speaking of meetings, I actually went to an Automobile Association meeting once.
Turns out it was just full of broken-down people waiting for a jump-start.
Don't let your presentation be one of them.
All the best,
Paul n Vic
#AppliedImprovisation #YesAnd #BusinessInPlay #BusinessSkills #PersonalGrowth #AgilityinBusiness #AdaptabilityQuotient #PositiveEnergy #PlayfulSolutions #throughlines
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