Read time: 5 minutes
This week’s tip: A great opener sets the stage for everything that follows.
I’ll never forget a defining moment in my college experience. I was a freshman at the University of Washington, taking Speech Communication 220—an introductory public speaking class. For our final assignment, we had to prepare and deliver a 5-minute speech on any topic of our choice.
I still remember the afternoon before the presentation: I climbed onto the roof of my college house, lying in the sun with my course book, thinking... How do I open my talk in a way that grabs my classmates' attention and keeps them listening? I needed this opener to work. I wanted them engaged, curious, and, most importantly, I wanted an A in the class.
I decided to tell the story of raising a guide dog puppy for a blind woman when I was 10 years old—a heartfelt, personal experience. But I still had no idea how to start. Then it hit me: What if I asked them to experience what blindness feels like—if only for a moment?
The next day, I stood nervously in front of the class and said, "Please close your eyes."
For 15 seconds, I spoke to them about a world without sight. I described daily life—simple tasks made difficult—and how one black lab changed everything for a blind woman. When they opened their eyes, every person in the room was focused, locked on my story, waiting to hear what came next.
At that moment, I stumbled onto a simple but powerful truth: A great opener sets the stage for everything that follows.
Picture: My dog Rory and Kay, her new life companion.
Four Ways to Open Your Data Story
Research shows that we gain or lose our audience in the first 30 seconds of any presentation.
So how do you hook your audience and leave them wanting more?
Here are four of my favorite ways to open a data presentation—techniques that ensure your audience pays attention to your story, whether it’s about business data or personal experiences.
1. Start with a Story
We’re wired to respond to stories. A compelling, relatable story creates an emotional connection and curiosity.
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Example: "Last year, our team faced what seemed like an insurmountable challenge. Today, I’ll share the journey of how we not only overcame it but achieved record-breaking performance."
A good story transports your audience, making your data or insights more memorable and impactful.
2. Ask a Question
Start with a thought-provoking question that highlights a problem or opportunity. Questions invite the audience to reflect and engage immediately.
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Example: "What if I told you that a single strategic shift could transform your financial performance from a 5% decline to 7% growth? Let me show you how."
A well-crafted question creates intrigue and sets up your content as the answer.
3. Share a Quote
A powerful quote can add credibility, set the tone, and spark interest.
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Example: Benjamin Franklin once said, "Beware of little expenses; a small leak will sink a great ship."
Connect the quote to your story or data, framing it as a lesson your audience can learn from.
4. Use a Statistic
Surprising or impactful statistics can quickly command attention and set up the story you’re about to tell.
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Example: "Despite the industry average growth of 2%, our company managed to skyrocket financial performance by 12% year-over-year. How did we do it? Let me show you."
Numbers are compelling, but they need context—present them as a hook for your larger narrative.
Challenge: Craft a 30-Second Opener
For your next presentation, spend time crafting a 30-second opener that draws your audience in. Whether it’s a story, question, quote, or statistic, make sure it:
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Captivates your audience immediately.
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Summarizes the core theme of your presentation.
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Sets up your story or insights in a way that leaves them wanting more.
Practice: Test Your Opener
Write two or three versions of your opener and present them to a friend or colleague. Ask them: "Which one made you want to hear more?" Adjust and refine until you find the version that grabs attention and sets the perfect stage for your presentation.
Final Thought: The first 30 seconds are your chance to win or lose your audience. Open strong, and they’ll follow you all the way to the conclusion.
"A great opener doesn’t just introduce your story—it earns your audience’s attention."
