Guest Speaker Introductions

For this requirement, which you should come prepared for next week, you must do four things:

• Interview someone you like or admire
  
• Listen actively
  
• Write and deliver a brief introduction as if this person were to be a guest speaker
  
• Show how you would invite this person to speak

Here are a few helpful tips...

On Interviewing

• Call beforehand to request and set up an interview
  
• Write down your questions before the interview (5-10 questions, open-ended questions that require more than one-word answers)
  
• Dress appropriately (nice, in a way the person will feel comfortable)
  
• Take a notebook and pen
  
• Be on time, and stick to your time limit
  
• Thank them

On Active Listening

• Listen carefully and take notes
  
• Give encouragement: nod, smile, say encouraging words (“uh-huh,” “cool," "wow”)
  
• Ask follow up questions, be curious, seek understanding, reflect answers
  
• Show interest: look them in the eye, avoid distractions
  
• Watch for body language
  
• Let them talk: don’t fear silence; let them fill the silence

On Introducing: Answer Two Questions in a Few Sentences

• Why should I care about this person?
  > Who is this person?
  > What makes them cool?
  > Interesting stories or background?
  
• Why should I care what they have to say?
  > What makes this person an expert in this topic?
  > What is the significance of the topic?