By Violeta Saladiene, Toastmasters International
The opening of your presentation is crucial. You want your audience members to feel intrigued, curious and ready to hear you out. Here are ten attention grabbing ways to start. Using the best one for the occasion will make a big difference.
Open with a Story
Nothing pulls people in like a well-told story. It’s one of the oldest forms of communication for a reason—it works. Instead of simply saying, “Let me tell you a story,” start with a line of dialogue or a vivid moment. That kind of opening triggers curiosity and emotional engagement. Stories create mental images, build empathy, and make your message far more memorable. They help your audience connect with your topic on a human level, making abstract concepts feel tangible.
Share a Surprising Fact or statistic
Start a presentation with an unexpected piece of information that makes people sit up and think. A little-known fact grabs attention and often stirs an emotional reaction — shock, disbelief, even concern. An interesting statistic that ties direct to your topic can pique interest. Both are a great way to draw your audience in. It immediately signals that they’re about to learn something new and worthwhile. Just be sure the fact is accurate and clearly connects to your overall message, so it doesn’t feel like a gimmick.
Quote Someone Noteworthy
A powerful quote can instantly lend your presentation depth, credibility, or a thought-provoking start—especially when it comes from a respected expert or historical figure. Choose one that aligns naturally with your message and sets the tone for what’s ahead. Whether it’s widely known or unexpected, a compelling quote can anchor your opening and spark curiosity. Just be sure to attribute it correctly and avoid overused clichés.
Ask a Rhetorical Question
Questions are great tools for engagement. Opening with a rhetorical question instantly involves your audience in the conversation and makes them think. It is advisable to pause after the question, and let it sink into the minds of the audience. Questions can spark internal dialogue, challenge assumptions, and invite your audience to mentally participate before you even begin your main points. Carefully think before asking a question: the best questions are those that relate directly to the audience’s current situation or challenges. A well-placed question at the start sets a reflective tone and encourages listeners to stay mentally engaged throughout your talk.
Offer a Challenge
Start strong by presenting a viewpoint that might stir debate or spark interest: “In the next 20 minutes, I’ll prove that remote working boosts productivity more than the office ever did.” A challenge like this gives your presentation purpose and invites the audience into a persuasive journey. Make sure your challenge is one you can back up with evidence, science or experience—credibility is key when you make bold claims. It is advisable to deliver it with confidence; in this way a challenge positions you as the one who deserves to be heard.
Address What’s Already on Their Minds
Acknowledge the thoughts or feelings your audience may be having. This shows empathy and immediately builds rapport. For example: “I know you’re probably wondering if…” Light humor or self-deprecation can work well here, especially when paired with interactive elements like show-of-hands questions. With this kind of opening, your audience will feel seen, entertained, and genuinely engaged right from the start.
Transport the audience to a different place or time
Invite your listeners to envision a different reality: “Imagine walking into your office and…” This technique taps into visualization and emotional engagement. By asking your audience to picture a scenario, you’re helping them invest mentally and emotionally in your message. While setting the scene, consider adding a touch of humor or an unexpected twist — it can make the moment more vivid, memorable, and impactful.
Connect to the Event’s Theme or Purpose
If you’re speaking at a conference, seminar, or internal meeting with a specific theme, use it to your advantage. Referencing the event’s central topic in your opening instantly provides context and shows that your message aligns with the bigger picture. Craft your introduction thoughtfully with that theme in mind. This approach shows you’ve done your homework and helps you position your content as a valuable contribution to the overall event.
And finally, a bonus: if you are feeling brave you could start with a short song or a poem. You don’t need to perform the entire piece—a catchy chorus or a memorable four-line stanza is enough to capture attention. Inviting the audience to repeat it with you adds rhythm, emotion, and creativity to your presentation as well as can create a sense of unity and shared experience.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Violeta Saladiene is a member of Toastmasters International, a not-for-profit organisation that has provided communication and leadership skills since 1924 through a worldwide network of clubs. There are more than 400 clubs and 10,000 members in the UK and Ireland. Members follow a structured educational programme to gain skills and confidence in public and impromptu speaking, chairing meetings and time management. To find your nearest club, visit www.toastmasters.org