Ease the nerves with 7 outstanding last-minute speech writing tips

OK – you’ve got a speech to write very soon. Here’s one solution: call us on +44 (0) 207 118 1600 and we’ll write it for you.  We work seven days a week and are used to offer last minute speech writing tips and avoid panics.  But if you’re going it alone, here are seven tips to get you going.

Stay Calm and Focused

When time is limited, it’s crucial to stay calm and think clearly. Panicking won’t help, but remaining composed will allow you to make the most of every available second.

Last minute speech writing tips: Adjust Your Goals

With limited time, it’s essential to adjust your speech goals. Shorten the length of your speech and avoid attempting something overly unique or unconventional. Focus on delivering a clear and impactful message within the time constraints.

Keep It Simple

While your topic may be complex, your speech should be straightforward and easy to understand. Simplify your language and structure to ensure clarity for your audience.  From the very start, decide what single message you have to get across and stick to it.

Create Two Lists

To stay organized, create two lists: ‘Must Says’ and ‘Could Says.’ In the ‘Must Says’ list, jot down essential elements like acknowledgments, toasts, and key points you must cover. In the ‘Could Says’ list, include elements that can add life to your speech (like stories, examples and jokes).

Focus on Three Key Points

In the ‘Could Says’ list, narrow down to a maximum of three key points. For example, if you’re a Best Man at a wedding, highlight the groom’s love of sports, spreadsheets, and takeaways.  If you are speaking at a work event, focus on the three most important points for your audience to remember.

Structure Your Speech

Create a simple structure for your speech by sandwiching the ‘Could Says’ points between the ‘Must Says.’ This helps maintain a balance between sincere and lighter elements and keeps the speech engaging.

Use Short and Impactful Sentences

Craft your sentences to be short and impactful. Read them aloud to ensure they flow smoothly and are easy to deliver. Consider printing your speech with a large font, allowing ample room for pauses and easy reading during delivery.

While writing a speech at the twelfth hour may seem daunting, these last minute speech writing tips will help you create an impressive and concise presentation. Once again, if you need immediate assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us for expert help. We’re here to help. Good luck with your speech!