The first 30 seconds decide whether people lean in or drift off. Don't waste them warming up. Here's how to open a presentation with a hook that earns attention instantly.
Hook, don't warm up
Skip 'thanks for having me, today I'll cover...' Open with a surprising number, a bold claim, or a short story. 'In ten minutes I'll show you how we double conversion' beats any warm-up.
Make it about them
The strongest openers speak to the audience's problem or desire immediately. When people hear something that matters to them in the first sentence, they pay attention.
Then signpost briefly
Frequently asked questions
How do I open a presentation strongly?
Hook in the first 30 seconds with a surprising fact, bold claim, or short story about the audience's problem.
Should I start with 'thanks for having me'?
No — that wastes your strongest moment; hook first, thank later.
How do I make the opener relevant?
Speak to the audience's problem or desire in the first sentence.
How can I practice openers?
Book a free 30-minute class to rehearse it 1-on-1 with Digby R. Kerr.
Start with a free 30-minute class
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