What is an effective way to create a strong opening for a speech?

Using a quote or thought-provoking question is an effective way to create a strong opening for a speech because it engages the audience's curiosity and encourages them to think critically right from the outset. This approach can capture attention and create a memorable introduction, helping to set the tone for the entire presentation. A well-chosen quote or question can also establish credibility, resonate with the audience's experiences, or align with the theme of the speech, thereby enhancing connection and engagement.

In contrast, starting with a lengthy statistic might overwhelm the audience or fail to resonate immediately, making it less impactful. Immediately introducing the topic, while straightforward, may lack the engagement factor that a thought-provoking opener provides. Reading from a script might detract from the speaker's authenticity and delivery, potentially causing the audience to disengage. Overall, the use of a quote or question serves to stimulate interest and stimulate the audience's thinking, which is crucial in public speaking.