How do you create a memorable opening and closing for your event?

1 Know your purpose

Before you write or rehearse your opening and closing, you need to know the purpose of your event and your role as an emcee. What are the main goals and messages of the event? What are the expectations and interests of your audience? How can you align your words and actions with the theme and tone of the event? Knowing your purpose will help you choose the appropriate language, style, and content for your opening and closing.

2 Grab their attention

The opening of your event is your chance to grab the attention of your audience and make them want to stay. You can use various techniques to hook them in, such as telling a story, asking a question, sharing a joke, making a surprising statement, or using a relevant quote. Whatever you choose, make sure it is relevant, appropriate, and engaging for your audience and your event. Avoid clichés, apologies, or long introductions that will bore or confuse your guests.

3 Build rapport

Once you have their attention, you want to build rapport with your audience and make them feel welcome and comfortable. You can do this by introducing yourself and your role, acknowledging the organizers and sponsors of the event, thanking the guests for attending, and showing enthusiasm and appreciation. You can also use humor, compliments, or anecdotes to create a connection with your audience and show them that you care about them and their experience.

4 Preview the agenda

Another important element of your opening is to preview the agenda of the event and what your audience can expect from it. You want to give them a clear and concise overview of the main topics, speakers, activities, and timings of the event, as well as any housekeeping rules or instructions. This will help your audience to follow along, stay focused, and anticipate the highlights of the event. You can also use this opportunity to create some curiosity or excitement about what is coming up next.

5 Summarize the key points

The closing of your event is your chance to summarize the key points and messages of the event and remind your audience of what they have learned or experienced. You want to highlight the main takeaways, insights, or outcomes of the event, as well as any action steps or recommendations that you want your audience to follow. You can also use this opportunity to reinforce the theme and purpose of the event and show how it relates to your audience and their goals.

6 End with a bang

The last impression is as important as the first one, so you want to end your event with a bang that will leave your audience feeling satisfied, inspired, and entertained. You can use various techniques to end with a bang, such as calling for a round of applause, inviting feedback or questions, sharing a final joke, quote, or story, or giving a call to action or a challenge. Whatever you choose, make sure it is relevant, appropriate, and engaging for your audience and your event. Avoid ending abruptly, repeating yourself, or leaving your guests hanging.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?