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Concluding Your Speech

The Better Speaker Series

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Criteria for Successful Conclusions

  • Achieve a sense of closure
  • Make an impact
  • Take less than 10% of the entire speech time

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Closing Techniques

Use a quotation.

  • Add authority
  • Amuse listeners
  • Dramatize your speech

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Closing Techniques

Tell a short story or anecdote that:

  • Develops quickly
  • Is concise
  • Reinforces your message

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Closing Techniques

Call for action.

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Clearly explain what action the audience should take.

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Closing Techniques

Ask a rhetorical question.

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Ask one question or a series of questions that relate to your topic.

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Closing Techniques

Refer to the beginning of the speech.

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Tie your closing words to your introduction to reinforce your message.

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Closing Techniques

Summarize your main points.

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Repetition reinforces your message and enhances �your audience’s learning.

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Tips for Success

  • Memorize your conclusion
  • End on time
  • Refrain from adding new points

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Conclusion

“Great is the art of beginning, �but greater is the art of ending.”

– Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

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