Speechwriters will usually get a list of speeches and scheduled remarks from the scheduler—ideally a long time in advance, so the writer has plenty of time to plan and prepare. This also helps diversify what content is included in the speeches, so the speaker isn’t saying the same thing over and over again.
But not every speech comes up weeks in advance; sometimes disasters, surprises, and other unforeseen events require a speechwriter to work quickly and think on his feet.
Once the speechwriter has a list of upcoming events, he should reach out to the point of contact for the organization that is hosting the event and get some further details.
The answers to these questions can have a huge impact on the content and delivery of the speech:
All of these questions can help prepare the speaker for the day of the event.
Also complement this question with your own research into the organization, including their focus, their work, and some of their big wins.
Remember, a closed-door speech to a small group of businessmen, industry leaders, or policy experts will be a very different speech than one delivered to a general audience during an open event.
It is always a good idea to make everyone who worked to make this event happen feel appreciated, even with just a quick acknowledgment at the top.
Some of the most important questions to ask include:
The answers to these questions can have a huge impact on the content and delivery of the speech:
- Small events that are closed to the press (events without members of the press present) can be more intimate, more informal, and more personal.
- Larger, speeches with press attending should be straightforward, to the point, and cleanly argued.
- One should understand that open press remarks will likely be taped and placed online in perpetuity. The media has teams of fact-checkers to pick apart every claim you make—so write accordingly and keep track of your sources.
All of these questions can help prepare the speaker for the day of the event.
Also complement this question with your own research into the organization, including their focus, their work, and some of their big wins.
Remember, a closed-door speech to a small group of businessmen, industry leaders, or policy experts will be a very different speech than one delivered to a general audience during an open event.
It is always a good idea to make everyone who worked to make this event happen feel appreciated, even with just a quick acknowledgment at the top.
