Lynn Kirkham
Public Speaking Coach
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Co-authored Articles (37)
How to Start a Debate Speech Effectively
Plus, learn the format and roles of a formal debate Opening a debate the right way will make your audience more interested and help you win your argument. Before your debate, take the time to prepare a solid opening that...
How to
Write a Speech Introducing Yourself
First impressions have a big impact on how others perceive you, so how you introduce yourself to others is extremely important. Many people call an introductory speech an elevator speech, because it should be succinct en...
How to Become a Politician: Process, Qualifications & More
Simple steps to start your career in politicsIf you're looking to truly make a difference in the world, becoming a politician may be your calling. In office, you could instigate change! How amazing would that feeling be?...
How to
Become a Professional Storyteller
The tradition of oral narrative, or the art of storytelling, is something that has been with humanity ever since its origin. These days, amid increasing opportunities for electronic transmission of sight and sound, story...
How to
Write a Campaign Speech
A good campaign speech can persuade, excite, and motivate, compensating for weaknesses in other parts of the campaign. Although good speakers make it look natural, there are actually specific techniques you can use to ma...
How to
Judge a Debate
Debate is a popular extracurricular activity that gives participants opportunities to refine their critical thinking and public speaking skills. Judging debate tournaments is a great way to support this tradition! Make s...
How to
Critique a Speech
A good speech critique helps build the speaker’s skills by honestly identifying areas for improvement in a constructive, encouraging manner. Offering a good critique can also benefit your own public speaking skills! Th...
How to
Write a Salutatorian Speech
Delivering a salutatorian speech is a great honor. But before you can deliver it, you have to write it. Before you begin, think about your topic and find out how long you have to speak. Thoughtfully structure your spe...
Your Guide to Engaging in Conversation
Everything you need to know to start conversations and keep them going in professional and personal settingsIf you're shy or anxious by nature, you may worry about starting or carrying conversations with others. If this ...
A Guide to Writing School Speeches: Structure, Delivery, & More
Sway voters to elect you for student council or club leadership If you’re running for office in school elections, delivering your candidate speech can be one of the most important parts of the whole process. And you c...
How to
Write Talking Points
Talking points are often used to prepare for a public speech or an interview. By crafting your own talking points, you can feel more comfortable talking in front of others or answering questions from the media or the pub...
How to
Speak Professionally
No matter your line of work, other people form fast opinions on you based on what you say and how you say it. Speaking professionally means that you communicate with clarity and confidence, putting listeners at ease whil...
How to
Lead Into a Quote
Introducing a quote in a paper can be tricky, as you want the quote to feel seamless and relevant to your topic. You may want to use a quote from a literary text to support your ideas in an essay, or as evidence in your ...
How to
Write a Keynote Speech
A good keynote speech is gripping and inspiring. It sets the tone for the event, program, or conference, and it can really unify the audience. If you’ve been invited to write and give a keynote speech (congrats!), you ...
How to
Start a Eulogy
Being asked to write a eulogy for a departed loved one is a sober responsibility, but it can also be cathartic. This is a chance to honor your friend or family member after their passing and share fond memories with othe...
How to
End a Speech with Impact
If you're hoping to wow your audience as you end your speech, there are lots of ways you can capture their attention and leave a lasting impression. Repeating the main points in your speech is a great way to make sure yo...
How to
Teach Direct and Indirect Speech
Direct and indirect speech, also known collectively as reported speech, refer to the ways in which a person can report what someone else has said to them. To effectively teach reported speech to your students, it’s imp...
How to
Add Length to a Speech
When you’re giving a speech, it often feels like it happened in a flash—so what do you do if you need to slow things down? Adding length to a speech is something many speakers and presenters have to do, and, thankful...
A Guide to Writing the Perfect Mother of the Groom Speech
Templates and advice to help you give the best speech everYour son’s wedding is quickly approaching and all the details are taken care of—except the speech you plan to give at the rehearsal dinner or reception. We'r...
How to
Write a Valedictorian Speech
Giving your valedictorian or graduation speech at the end of your time at high school is both an exciting and sometimes daunting task, and it is one that most speech givers relish. Its aim is to provide a persuasive, mov...
