One of the most common weaknesses I encounter when training people to be better communicators is an inability to begin and end strongly. It’s hugely important to make an impact at the start of a talk/presentation, and to finish cleanly and memorably.
Too often openings are rambling and apologetic, closings protracted and weak. If not well scripted and rehearsed, they can undermine what otherwise might be strong and relevant content – rather like two slices of flaccid white bread either side of a chunk of vintage cheddar. So here’s Kevin Spacey showing us how it should be done.