What goes into a good speech?

One of the blogs that I read on a regular basis (for business most) is "Creating Passionate Users" by Kathy Sierra and today she had an interesting post about "Cognitive seduction (a Typology of User Experience Pleasures)". In other words, "what turns on your brain?"

As I read this post, I began to realize that the items she listed could be applied to a Toastmasters speech as well since you want to connect to (and hopefully excite) the brains of your audience!

Kathy lists the following, "Typology of Cognitive Pleasures (in no particular order)
1. Discovery - User experience as exploration of new territory
2. Challenge - User experience as obstacles to overcome, goals lying just beyond current skill and knowledge levels
3. Narrative - User experience as story arc (user on hero's journey) and character identification
4. Self-expression - User experience as self-discovery and creativity
5. Social framework - User experience as an opportunity for interaction/fellowship with others
6. Cognitive Arousal - User experience as brain teaser
7. Thrill - User experience as risk-taking with a safety net
8. Sensation - User experience as sensory stimulation
9. Triumph - User experience as opportunity to kick ass
10. Flow - User experience as opportunity for complete concentration, extreme focus, lack of self-awareness
11. Accomplishment - User experience as opportunity for productivity and success
12. Fantasy - User experience as alternate reality
13. Learning - User experience as opportunity for growth and improvement

If you read through this list you will see lots of concepts that can improve the quality of your speeches... especially if it is a Tall Tale or a story.

What do you think? Leave a comment and let us know!

Speak UP!

Dave Wheeler