Interact with the audience by posing a question. You can present a trivia question that leads to an interesting fact on your topic. Avoid questions that require expert knowledge of the subject. If your audience isn’t very talkative, an open-ended question may elicit a response. For example, you can start by asking, “Approximately how many hours a week do you spend surfing the Internet?”
Present an interesting fact about your subject. Choose a fact that surprised even you during the research phase of your speech. Presenting an unusual statistic is another way to grab attention, but ensure your data is accurate and up to date.
Open your speech with a famous quote. Write the quote on a chalkboard so it sticks in the minds of your listeners. Your speech doesn’t need to reflect the views of the quote. In fact, you may grab more attention if you argue against the quote. A joke may also grab the audience’s attention, but if the joke is inappropriate or fails to rouse the audience, your speech will have a rough start.
Use props to provide a physical demonstration of your subject. For example, you can begin a speech on the history of television by showing the audience an antique television set. When possible, you can also use yourself as a prop by wearing a costume or article of clothing that relates to your speech.
Use storytelling to engage your audience. Humorous and emotional stories will liven up your presentation and allow you time to assume a comfortable and extemporaneous manner. An anecdote will not only grab interest, but it can also reveal your personal experiences with the speech topic.