Public Speaking Tip: Use Humor Safely With Quotes

by Lily Iatridis on February 5, 2010

Using humor in a speech can be tricky, because the audience may not find you funny at the time for a variety of reasons, as referenced in a recent tip.  However, there is always safety in using humorous quotations by well-known historical figures. The power of their name will strongly encourage your audience to appreciate their humor.
Here are a couple of examples:
“Get your facts first and then you can distort them as much as you please.” ~ Mark Twain
“When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on.” ~ Franklin Delano Roosevelt
In your public speaking, when you make the decision to experiment with more humor, including humorous quotations is a great place to start while keeping the risk level relatively low.  As you gain more confidence, move on from there!

Related posts:

  1. How to Use Humor in Public Speaking
  2. Public Speaking Tip: Don’t Do This
  • http://fearlessdelivery.com/stand-comedy-audience-relationships-martial-arts Stand Up Comedy: Why Are They Doing This to Themselves? | Welcome To Fearless Delivery|Solutions in Public Speaking| Your Expertise Leveraged | Public Speaking Coaching | Public Speaking Courses

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