how to write a one minute speech about yourself

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How to Write a Speech Introducing Yourself

Last Updated: November 1, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Lynn Kirkham . Lynn Kirkham is a Professional Public Speaker and Founder of Yes You Can Speak, a San Francisco Bay Area-based public speaking educational business empowering thousands of professionals to take command of whatever stage they've been given - from job interviews, boardroom talks to TEDx and large conference platforms. Lynn was chosen as the official TEDx Berkeley speaker coach for the last four years and has worked with executives at Google, Facebook, Intuit, Genentech, Intel, VMware, and others. There are 15 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 3,828,850 times.

First impressions have a big impact on how others perceive you, so how you introduce yourself to others is extremely important. Many people call an introductory speech an elevator speech, because it should be succinct enough that you could introduce yourself and tell someone about your goals or interests in the time it takes to ride an elevator. It may also be called an "icebreaker" speech, as it breaks the ice and lets others get to know you. [1] X Research source Consider your words carefully when you write a speech introducing yourself. Crafting a good self-introduction can either build or harm your credibility.

Sample Speeches

Preparing Your Speech

• State your name in the very first sentence of your speech. This can be very straightforward: "Good afternoon!/Good morning! My name is Deshawn Smith, and I am a computer programming student at the University of Arkansas."
• If the introduction is work-related, mention your interests and your career goals together in the same sentence. This will save on time and convey that your personal interests can serve your professional goals. For example, "I am working on an app that allows people to order pizza from their Twitter account."
• You may want to mention your education or professional training background, if it is relevant and appropriate. "This is the fifth app I've designed. My second app, which helped people locate dog parks near them, won an award at my university."

• If you are explaining your passion or goal and how it helped formed your progression up to this point, that can help you tell a compelling story about yourself. For example, if you're writing a speech for your college speech class, you might want to explain how you got into computers at an early age and why they're important to you now as you pursue your career goals.
• If, however, you are introducing yourself to potential clients at a business lunch, they are probably not interested in your hobbies. They will want to know what you are doing right now and what your skills are.
• Try writing one draft with your experience/hobbies and one without, and run both versions by an objective listener who can give you feedback before your speech.

• Highlight the qualities, skills and experience you have that are most relevant for the audience and occasion. For example, "Because of my background in app writing and my extensive network of professional connections, I have a strong grasp of what today's young professionals are looking for. My apps offer convenience and immediate gratification."
• You are trying to present yourself as a professional while making a strong and lasting impression.
• If you're trying to sell yourself to a group of new colleagues, you probably won't need to tell them about your family life, or anything outside of work that isn't directly relevant.

• You can simultaneously demonstrate your skills and experience, while presenting yourself as a forward-looking person who is always learning and developing. For example, you could say, "I spend a lot of time attending app conventions and conferences so I can learn what audiences are looking for. I pride myself on staying on the cutting edge of app design."
• Try to tie this into your broader outline of your career goals and personal development.
• Reader Poll: We asked 115 wikiHow readers which job interview question is the most important to prepare for, and 58% of them said tell me about yourself. [Take Poll] This speech is a perfect way to answer.

Revising and Practicing Your Speech

• Make sure that if this is an assignment, you stay within the assigned guidelines.
• If your speech is supposed to be 3-5 minutes, a 7-minute speech and a 2-minute speech are equally inappropriate.
• If you are giving a brief introductory speech in an interview , be certain that you don't go over the recommended time.

• Avoid long rambling sentences, and use direct and concise prose as much as possible.
• Think about your sentence structure carefully. Reading your speech out loud will help you determine when you have overly long sentences that need to be restructured.

• Practicing in front of other people will enable you to gauge whether your speech captures the interest of your listeners.
• Think about which parts of the speech were successful and which parts weren't.
• Try to get as much detailed feedback as possible by asking specific as well as general questions after your speech.
• As well as saying "how did you like the speech?", ask specifically what parts were the strongest and weakest.
• Check that you delivered a clear message by asking your practice audience what they took away from the speech.

• If you are staring down at a piece of paper all the time, the audience might struggle to truly engage with what you are saying.
• You can, however, bring an index card with bullet points, just in case you freeze up. You shouldn't write your whole speech on the card, just the main points you hope to cover.
• Think of the card as a point of reference, rather than a backup for your speech.

Planning Your Speech

• Who is the intended audience?
• What is the purpose of my introduction?
• What are the expectations others may have?

• Stick to one or two main points you want to convey about yourself. You can always add more if time allows it.
• Depending on the audience and function of your speech, you shouldn't allow the focus to become too narrow. For example, if you're introducing yourself to a crowd of prospective investors, you'd focus on your skills to build their confidence in you. If you're introducing yourself to a general audience -- say, for a speech class in college -- you can be a bit more wide-ranging.
• Remember that you're introducing yourself in general, and you want to present yourself as an interesting and rounded individual. [12] X Research source
• That doesn't mean you should spend time talking about your love of baseball when you are introducing yourself in a professional scenario.

• Are you hoping to win someone over to your point of view with this introduction, or to inspire/motivate someone to work hard under your leadership?
• All of these will affect the things you say in your introduction and the way you say them. [14] X Research source

Delivering Your Speech

• You can also try some visualization techniques to help ease your nervousness and give you confidence for your speech.
• Imagine the way you will feel when you have finished delivering your speech and are met with smiling faces and resounding applause. Then channel that confidence into the actual speech you are about to deliver.

• Avoid crossing your arms or clutching your hands.
• Don't stare down at the ground or cling to the table or lecture in front of you.
• Make eye contact across the room in a measured and controlled way. Avoid lingering on one person, but also avoid darting your eyes back and forth restlessly.
• Try making eye contact with one person on the left side of the room, then one person on the right side of the room. Shift across the room, but in a controlled way that feels natural and relaxed.

• Aim for a comfortable, conversational pace of dialogue.
• Practicing your speech in front of other people, or recording it and listening back are great ways to judge the tempo of your speech.

• Self-deprecating humor can help you come across as humble and likable. For example, if you've accidentally skipped forward in your speech and have to circle back, you could say something like, "And now I'm going to cycle back and tell you something I forgot before. If you wanted to get to know the "real me," you're seeing it now!"
• You can also make a quick, humorous nod to your mistake and move on. For example, if you come out and you mess up the very first line, you could say something like, "Wow, excuse me. Here I am so excited to tell you about myself that I've mixed up all my words. Let me try that again."
• Don't be too self-deprecating, however. You are still trying to ensure people remember you for your strengths and competencies. Move on quickly.

Expert Q&A

Reader Videos

Share a quick video tip and help bring articles to life with your friendly advice. Your insights could make a real difference and help millions of people!

• Improve eye contact with the audience. Be direct and move confidently during the speech. Thanks Helpful 21 Not Helpful 3
• Do not be afraid to make yourself sound good. After all, this is an introduction, and the first impression you will make. Thanks Helpful 24 Not Helpful 4
• If the introduction is too long, you will lose your audience's attention. A good introduction should be short and to the point. Thanks Helpful 20 Not Helpful 6

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://courses.p2pu.org/en/groups/public-speaking-2/content/icebreaker-introduce-yourself/
• ↑ https://courses.lumenlearning.com/publicspeakingprinciples/chapter/chapter-8-outlining-your-speech/
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/how-to-give-an-elevator-pitch-examples
• ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/serenitygibbons/2023/05/31/3-tips-to-set-yourself-apart-with-unique-branding/?sh=5421a3b03baa
• ↑ https://www.hamilton.edu/academics/centers/oralcommunication/guides/shortening-a-speech
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/speeches/
• ↑ https://www.unr.edu/writing-speaking-center/student-resources/writing-speaking-resources/speech-delivery
• ↑ Lynn Kirkham. Public Speaking Coach. Expert Interview. 20 November 2019.
• ↑ https://courses.lumenlearning.com/wm-publicspeaking/chapter/methods-of-speech-delivery/
• ↑ https://www.comm.pitt.edu/oral-comm-lab/audience-analysis
• ↑ https://open.lib.umn.edu/writingforsuccess/chapter/6-1-purpose-audience-tone-and-content/
• ↑ https://pac.org/content/speechwriting-101-writing-effective-speech
• ↑ https://sps.columbia.edu/news/five-ways-improve-your-body-language-during-speech
• ↑ https://www.apa.org/monitor/2017/02/tips-speaking
• ↑ https://professional.dce.harvard.edu/blog/10-tips-for-improving-your-public-speaking-skills/

About This Article

To write a speech introducing yourself, start by organizing the information you want to include. When writing content, consider the purpose of the speech, your intended audience, and your goals for the introduction. You can speak about your education, professional background, career/career goals, and outside interests, but keep things brief and to the point. Only include information that is important and relevant to your listeners. Don't forget to state your name in the first sentence of the speech. To learn more from our English Ph.D. co-author, such as how to practice and memorize your speech, continue reading the article! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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1 Minute Speech

Ai generator.

A 1-minute speech is a brief and concise presentation delivered within a sixty-second timeframe. It is designed to convey a clear message, idea, or piece of information efficiently and effectively. Due to its brevity, a 1-minute speech focuses on the most important points, avoiding unnecessary details. It typically includes a strong opening to grab the audience’s attention, a succinct body that delivers the core message, and a memorable conclusion. This format is often used in situations where time is limited, such as in elevator pitches, introductions, quick updates, or speaking competitions.

What is 1 Minute Speech?

A 1-minute speech is a brief presentation that conveys a message clearly and concisely within a 60-second timeframe. This type of speech requires the speaker to focus on the main points, delivering them in a structured and impactful manner. It is often used in situations where time is limited, such as introductions, quick updates, or overviews of a topic. The key to an effective 1-minute speech is to be well-prepared, stay on topic, and engage the audience with a strong opening and closing statement.

1 Minute Speech Format

Introduction (10-15 seconds).

Start with a hook to grab attention. Introduce the main topic.

Body (30-40 seconds)

Present 1-2 key points. Provide brief supporting details or examples.

Conclusion (10-15 seconds)

Summarize the main points. End with a strong closing statement or call to action.

1 Minute Speech Example

Introduction Good morning, everyone! Today, I want to talk about the importance of recycling . Body Every year, millions of tons of waste end up in our landfills, harming the environment. By recycling, we can significantly reduce this waste and conserve valuable resources. For instance, recycling one ton of paper saves 17 trees and 7,000 gallons of water. It also reduces greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change. Additionally, recycling helps create jobs in the recycling and manufacturing industries, boosting the economy. Conclusion In conclusion, recycling is a simple yet powerful way to protect our planet and preserve its resources for future generations. Let’s all make a conscious effort to recycle more and encourage others to do the same. Thank you!

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How to Write 1 Minute Speech

1. choose a topic.

Pick a specific and focused topic you can cover succinctly.

2. Outline the Structure

Introduction (10-15 seconds): Start with a hook to grab attention and introduce the topic.

Body (30-40 seconds): Present 1-2 key points with brief supporting details.

Conclusion (10-15 seconds): Summarize the main points and provide a strong closing statement or call to action.

3. Write Concisely

Use clear and direct language.

Avoid unnecessary details and jargon.

Ensure each sentence adds value to your message.

4. Practice and Time Yourself

Rehearse the speech to ensure it fits within the 1-minute timeframe.

Adjust the content as needed to stay concise and impactful.

5. Edit for Clarity

Revise the speech to improve clarity and flow.

Remove any redundant or unclear points.

Tips to Deliver 1 Minute Speech

• Practice: Rehearse several times to ensure smooth delivery.
• Stay Focused: Stick to your main points without deviating.
• Speak Clearly: Articulate your words and maintain a steady pace.
• Engage the Audience: Make eye contact and use natural gestures.
• Time Yourself: Ensure your speech fits within the 1-minute limit.
• Stay Calm: Take deep breaths and stay composed.
• Use Notes Sparingly: Refer to brief notes or an outline if needed.
• End Strong: Finish with a memorable closing statement or call to action.

Why are 1-minute speeches important?

They improve concise communication skills, essential for conveying information quickly and effectively in various situations.

How do I structure a 1-minute speech?

Start with a strong opening, present your main points, and end with a memorable conclusion.

What should I include in a 1-minute speech?

Include an attention-grabbing introduction, one or two key points, and a strong closing statement.

How can I practice a 1-minute speech?

Practice by timing yourself, refining your points, and rehearsing in front of a mirror or with friends.

What topics are suitable for a 1-minute speech?

Choose simple, engaging topics like personal experiences, motivational quotes, or current events.

How do I manage time during a 1-minute speech?

Keep an eye on the clock and practice to ensure you stay within the time limit.

What are some tips for delivering a 1-minute speech?

Speak clearly, maintain eye contact, use gestures, and stay confident.

How can I engage my audience in a 1-minute speech?

Start with a hook, use relatable examples, and maintain enthusiasm throughout your speech.

What is the biggest challenge in a 1-minute speech?

The biggest challenge is conveying your message effectively within a limited timeframe.

How do I choose the main points for my 1-minute speech?

Identify the most important and relevant points that support your main idea or message.

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• Professional

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