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15 STEPS TO BEING A DYNAMIC AND MEMORABLE EMCEE
by David LaManna

To be a good emcee (master-of-ceremonies), we need to be able to speak well. To be a great emcee, we need to be organized, enthusiastic, prepared and rehearsed. Following the steps below will virtually guarantee you will be asked again and again to be master-of-ceremonies.

1. Be In Control: Always act and sound like you're in control of the situation. Never leave the podium/lectern unattended.

2. Keep The Audience Engaged: Look to all parts of the audience. Have some recognizable quotes ready to use at the appropriate time.

3. Know Who's Who: Ask the program chairperson about any other speakers, participants or special guests that you will have to introduce or even just acknowledge. Who are they? Why are they speaking? How do you correctly pronounce their names? In what order should they be introduced? Is the program chairperson providing you with an introduction on each of the speakers? It's your job to make sure all speakers know their time limit and that YOU keep them on schedule.

4. Know the Schedule of Events: What is the time frame that the organizers want you to follow? Are there any other caveats or restrictions that may impact the flow of the program?

5. Familiarize Yourself with Any Awards: Are there any awards or prizes that you will be expected to present? What are they, who is receiving them and why are they be awarded? Will there be pictures?

6. Prepare Some Segues: Always have some informal comments and relevant thoughts to allow for smooth, seamless transitions from one part of the program to the next. Think seriously about your role and the occasion in advance and have your thoughts at the ready. Make intermittent comments about the events as they transpire during the program.

7.Check All Equipment: Be sure that the microphone, podium/lectern, and any other AV equipment are in place AND in working order. Consult with the AV person about what you need and what you can expect in the way of help from him/her.

8. Use A Clear, Articulate Voice: Don't bore the audience with a dull and monotone voice. Talk loud enough to be heard by everyone. Vary the rate, pitch and volume of your voice throughout the program. Be professional, enthusiastic and let your excitement show through.

9. Give Praise: Say some words of appreciation and praise about the organizing committee and also about the audience for their support of the event.

10. Lead the Applause: Always lead the applause after any speaker has finished his remarks or after you have acknowledged a special guest or paid tribute to someone.

11. Be Positive and Professional: Don't use the podium as your personal soapbox or to make any inappropriate remarks. Display a positive attitude and use words and language that fit the occasion. Never make any negative comments about the event or any persons while you are the emcee.

12. Don't Be Long-Winded, But Feel Free To Pause: Always feel free to PAUSE to collect your thoughts. No one says you have to babble on non-stop. Pausing gives you time to look at your notes so that you can look at the audience when you are speaking.

13. Avoid Cliches.

14. Wrap-Up Conclusively: Have a strong ending to the program or event. Prepare the audience for what's coming up next or bid them a pleasant farewell and give them an upbeat send-off. Conclude the program decisively, pleasantly and on time.

15. SMILE... SMILE... SMILE. Have fun and enjoy what you're doing.

© Copyright 2004, David LaManna. All Rights Reserved.