Here’s a not so fun fact: An audience will decide whether they like you, trust you, and believe you within the first 30 to 60 seconds of your presentation.
This can be terrifying to learn for people who have a fear of public speaking, however – now that you’re aware of this very short window of opportunity, you can do something about it! 💪
So let’s talk about three powerful ways to start any presentation and make a great first impression with your audience.
1. Start With a Story
If you want instant connection, tell a story.
Why?
Because before the audience cares about your content, they need to care about you.
Storytelling builds:
- Connection
- Trust
- Empathy
- Attention
Many speakers start with content because they’re nervous and want to get straight into providing ‘value’ for the audience.
But value isn’t just information.
You can give real value to your audience in many other ways by:
Educating,
Inspiring,
Entertaining, or simply;
Making people feel something
That’s real value and a short-cut to a great first impression. ✅
2. Use a Prop
Almost no one does this anymore (and that’s why it works).
A prop creates curiosity.
Human brains can’t ignore a physical object because they instantly start asking:
- What is that?
- Why is it here?
- What’s going to happen?
But here’s the key: the prop must have meaning. It needs to be relevant to your message and not just some random object you brought on stage because you I told you to.
Obviously there’s no single universal prop that’s going to be relevant to all presentations, but if you’re able to incorporate a physical object for the next time you step on stage, it’s a great way to grab your audience’s attention and make a memorable first impression
3. Humorous Energy
Emphasis on the word: energy. This isn’t about making dad jokes (unless you’re really good at them like I am 🫅) but your physical energy.
It means:
You smile
You’re excited
You use vocal melody
You’re playful
You have open body language
Here’s another one of my go to lines you’re welcome to steal:
When the audience finish clapping (hopefully) after you’ve been introduced on stage, start with:
“Wow, thank you for clapping, I haven’t even done anything yet. But I’ll take it!” (told you I was good at dad jokes 😂)
It tells the audience:
- You’re confident
- You’re relaxed
- You’re human
- And this won’t be a boring 45-minute snooze-fest
Keep in mind that humor is not only about being funny, it’s can be as simple as just being warm.
And warm speakers are instantly more likeable, memorable and likely to create a powerful first impression.
Remember…
If you want to make a brilliant first impression before your next presentation:
✅ Start with a story: connection before content
✅ Use a meaningful prop: create curiosity and engagement
✅ Bring humorous energy: be relaxed, open, warm, playful
