After the Speech: It's Like You Were Never Here

The comments by the Program Chair or Club President immediately after a speech can be powerful. Powerful in reinforcing the speaker's credibility, or powerful in their ability to make the audience forget there even WAS a speaker!

Most people have never heard the concept of the Outro, or comments following a speech. Program chairs are usually occupied with group business, dues collection, and announcements.

A guest speaker can significantly impact how they are perceived by offering a written outro in advance of the speech.

Why a Powerful Outro is Necessary

* A distractible audience member will appreciate hearing the speaker's name repeated once again. Hearing the name and a few major points will help lock it into their memory.

* Most moderators are volunteers. They can relax and enjoy the actual speech if they don't have to concentrate on preparing the closing remarks.

* To reward the speaker for their time and expertise, a call to action (buy his CD, sign up for her mailing list) is an appropriate part of an outro.

A Powerful Outro has Structure

* Thank the guest speaker by their full name, not just their first name. (Some people may have missed it during the introduction.)

* Using a colorful phrase like, "Now I'll know what to watch out for when . . .", repeat one or two key points from the speech.

* Comment on how valuable the presentation was to the members. Use specific examples.

* End your outro with a call to action, urging the members to meet with the speaker in the back of the room.

* Show your appreciation once more by initiating applause for the speaker, before continuing discussion of dues, schedules, etc.

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