FireFYI.org

Bridging to Key Messages

We all use transitional phrases in everyday conversation that we can draw upon to take control of a question and answer session. These phrases allow you to move smoothly back to your key messages, even from the most difficult questions.

Remember, always respond to the question that you are asked, then within your response, you can use a transitional phrase to make another key point or to redirect the session back to one of your three key messages.
Here are some examples of possible transitions that will get the discussion back in the direction you want it to go:

• "The bottom line is..."
• "The key thing to remember is...?"
• "The point that is really important in all this is...?"
• "I do want to make a point..."
• "I can’t speculate on that but what I can tell you is..."
• "On the contrary..."
• "And that is just a reaffirmation of..."
• "I’m not the right person to answer that question, but I can refer you to the expert. What I can tell you is..."

A Formal Speech

1. Triple space your copy and leave at least three inches blank at the bottom of each page.
2. Prominently number each page.
3. Don't staple or clip the pages together so that you can move smoothly from one page to the next.
4. Use a large bold font. Make sure you can read it from a slight distance. At least 16 pt. Font size is recommended.
5. Mark your script before you speak. Indicate pauses and underline words to remind you of special emphasis.
6. Before speaking, adjust the microphone for your voice. If you have a soft voice, get closer to the microphone. If you are loud and tend to overpower the microphone, position it to the side of your mouth. Best of all, ask for a lavaliere microphone that moves with you.
7. Push the script high up on the podium so that you don't have to drop your head low to read it. This will improve the fluidity of lifting your eyes from the script to the audience and back.
8. Be conversational and energetic.
9. Use hand gestures to emphasize your points.
10. Be as familiar as possible with your speech. It frees you to read ahead, make eye contact with your audience and adjust your pacing.