There are many different types of speech and almost as many different ways of writing a speech. Like all good speech writers, I like to vary my approach according to the nature of the speech to be written. I tend to follow 3 criteria when writing a speech;
- The person delivering the speech
- The occasion or type of speech
- The purpose or intended outcome of the speech
The person delivering the speech is crucial. On the one hand, I can be writing a speech to be delivered myself; which is fine as I generally know myself, my style and my comfort levels in delivering a speech.
Often, though, I may be writing a speech which is to be delivered by someone else. In such cases, it is important for me to gauge the confidence and ability of the person delivering the speech; what style of speaking do they have, what type of language do they wish to use and how comfortable they feel in delivering a speech.
The occasion of the speech, such as a wedding, a funeral, or a company presentation, is equally important. It is essential that the speech matches the mood of the occasion. This is especially true if the speech is intended to be humorous; where the level and nature of the humour needs to first the occasion without causing undue discomfort or offence.
The purpose or proposed outcome of the speech, is also vitally important. Is a speech meant to be humorous simply to entertain an audience? Is it meant to present a new product or service? Is it meant to praise a person, an achievement, or even to criticise a lack thereof?
When I have an understanding of these 3 criteria, I can then commence writing the first draft of a speech.
