GOOD SPEAKERS DESERVE
THOUGHTFUL INTRODUCTIONS
by ArLyne Diamond, Ph.D.

Recently, I heard Dr. Frances Connelly, a neurosurgeon at Stanford University Hospital, introduced by a former high school classmate as “Frannie ... who does something in academia.”

The insult was not intended. The woman making the introduction was obviously self-conscious and didn’t realize the importance of properly credentialing her speaker.

We seem at our worst when the person we are introducing is someone known to us. Is it really true that familiarity breeds contempt - or is it our desire to get off stage quickly that allows us to be so indifferent and rude? Or, do we not realize the value of the speaker?

It is very difficult for a speaker to offer his or her own credentials, yet all speakers want to be fully introduced so you will learn about their expertise in the area in which they are speaking.

The person assigned to making the introductions should realize that this is a very important component of the presentation itself. It is a third party endorsement and sets the tone for the manner in which the speaker will be received.

Before you get up to make the introductions, take the time in advance to read the information presented to you by the speaker. Ask questions if necessary.

Decide in advance what you are going to say and don’t be afraid to read the list of degrees, accomplishments, credentials given to you. You diminish the speaker and yourself if you fail to take the responsibility of making the introduction seriously.

Remember, the speaker needs you to do this for her or him. If you do less for the speaker, the speech itself will be of less value.