4 Tips for using Quotes as a Public Speaker

Quotes are a powerful tool for public speakers. As Rudyard Kipling said:

Words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind.

However, quotes are often overused and misused.

For example, a poorly chosen quote will distract your audience, particularly if you misunderstood its meaning.

My four tips for using quotes effectively are:

Your Quote should Speak for Itself - we all know that if we need to explain a joke it won’t be funny. Likewise, if you need to explain your quotes they will lose impact. Ask a few friends what they think your quote means. Does it confuse them, or does their answer confuse you?
Quality not Quantity - two or three well chosen and relevant quotes will have more impact than eight or ten. Remember that the quotes you choose are meant to strengthen your message. Too many quotes will confuse the audience about whose ideas they are hearing and weaken your influence. One way to make the most of a quote is to repeat it, either immediately for emphasis, or later in the speech to reinforce or reiterate the point it makes.
Include a Quote in your Introduction - a quote can be a great way to start your speech with credibility. It will help you get the attention and interest of the audience.
Authority or Illustration - in your mind you need t be clear on whether your quote is intended to add authority to your ideas or to illustrate them. Some quotes can fill both roles, but remember tip 1 and focus on either authority or illustration. It will be a bonus if some of your audience understand the quote both ways.

See My Top 8 Quote Sites for many great sources of quotes.

You can also get the free gift Quotes for Public Speakers Ezine (12 weekly issues) with my manual Be a Public Speaking Success: Secrets of the Great Orators.

My last thought is a question: