If you are a CEO like Steve Jobs, you will often need to give keynote addresses for your organization's events.
What is a keynote address?
This is the opening presentation (usually) for an event. More often than not it is inspirational. Regardless, it sets the mood and tone for the event.
As with any presentation, a keynote address takes into account the participants, as well as the event. When giving a keynote address, it is important to include elements that show the audience that you are united with them in some way, whether by sympathy, common experience or understanding.
A keynote address is not the place to be promoting yourself or your business. You are there in support of the event and its audience. You are there to set the mood and inspire. Only bring yourself into the presentation to build rapport, show common ground and be an inspirational example.
Resources for developing keynote addresses:
- Motivate Speech.com: What Is A Keynote Speech?
- E-How: How to Give a Keynote Address
- Speaking-Tips.com: Making Your First Keynote Speech
The next post in this series is The Training Session.
