- Always think about the audience; you are there to inform, persuade, or entertain them.
- Audiences are overwhelmed with information and have low expectations; you must quickly convince them your talk is worth their time.
- Research your audience to predict their interests, knowledge, and concerns.
- Create an early bond by finding something you share with the audience; be sincere.
- Introduce yourself briefly and humbly to establish credibility.
- Use the connection to make listeners feel valued and open to your message.
- Avoid pandering; instead, genuinely acknowledge audience's expertise or experience.
- Tailor your approach based on whether audience is junior, peer, senior, or sideways.