What is a Keynote Speech?

A keynote address is an inspirational speech that sets the mood and generates enthusiasm for its purpose. As its goal is to inspire it must be approached differently.

To produce a great keynote speech you need to understand your audience so you can develop the material and the presentation. Gathering the following information is crucial:

• The purpose of the organisation and gathering


• Whether it’s made up of men or woman only or both


• How many people will attend


• Their average age, background, occupations, education, religion


• Their special Interests


• Why they have come to the event


• Their knowledge about the topic


• Their general attitudes


• What message you anticipate they wish to take away with them

Your goal is to identify with your audience through sympathy, common experience and understanding. Your presentation should convey dignity and style, include appropriate humour and have a lightness of spirit. Inspiring an audience requires you express collective beliefs, values and sentiments.