Speaking on Stage Speakers and presenters have only a few short seconds before their audience members begin forming opinions. True professionals know that beginning with impact determines audience engagement, the energy in the room, positive feedback, the quality of the experience, and whether or not their performance will be a success. A few of the popular methods which you can use to break the ice from the stage are: * Using music. * Using quotes. * Telling a joke. * Citing statistics. * Showing a video. * Asking questions. * Stating a problem. * Sharing acronyms. * Sharing a personal story. * Laying down a challenge. * Using analogies and comparisons. * Taking surveys; raise your hand if . . . Once you refine, define, and discover great conversation starters, you will enjoy renewed confidence for communicating well with new people.