Opening the classroom teaching session

In any activity, laying a sound foundation by starting well is a vital necessity and this is never less true than at the beginning of a classroom session. It may be necessary to follow a speaker who in personal terms, or by reason of his subject, has achieved great acceptance; it may be necessary to follow some other activity of a more entertaining nature or because of timing – e.g. first thing in the morning.

The audience may be “cold”. Whatever the circumstances, a good impression must be created in the minds of the audience, so that their attention and interest can be secured. There are some tricks used to accomplish this.

Approach in a business like manner. Start as you mean to carry on. Inspire confidence.
Don't dive straight in. Give the audience/trainees a couple of seconds to see who you are. Smile as if you were greeting an old friend
As part of your preparation, make sure everything is ready. Projector switched on, whiteboard clean, pens working etc.
Don't apologise! Phrases such as "unaccustomed as I am to public speaking" are a big no no.
Remember to keep your opening short. More on this later
Try to make sure to include a reason or incentive for the trainees to listen. More on this later.

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