speech topic business

17+ Interesting & Stunning Business Speech Topics In 2023

The main task of a business speech is to provide information. Thus, choosing informative and not technical topics is a good idea.

Considering your audience’s interests before choosing a topic is also a good idea. Moreover, you should be careful not to cover too much information. This will distract your listeners from the goal of your speech.

A business speech aims to inform the audience about a certain topic. It can be informative or persuasive.

There are many business speech topics, but you should choose one relevant to your audience. You can also use a topic that will make your speech enjoyable.

This blog will list some business speech topics that can be used for various occasions and purposes.

Why Is Business Speech Important?

Table of Contents

Business speeches are essential for several reasons, including:

1. Building Credibility

You display your knowledge when you deliver a business speech. This allows you to establish yourself as a trustworthy authority and enhances your influence

2. Inspiring action

A well-crafted speech in business can motivate your audience to act. A persuasive speech can motivate your audience, promote a product, request funding, or motivate your team.

3. Share your knowledge

Business speeches are a great way to share knowledge and insights with your audience. Your audience can benefit from your education on a particular topic. This will help them make better decisions, solve problems, improve their performance, and be more informed.

4. Networking

Business speeches can be delivered at events and conferences, providing you with the opportunity to meet other professionals in your field, thus expanding your network, fostering relationships, and unlocking new business opportunities around the board room tables .

5. Communication skills improvement

A business speech is a great way to improve your communication skills. This includes public speaking, storytelling, and persuasiveness. These skills are valuable in all aspects of your personal and professional life.

Business speeches are an excellent opportunity to share knowledge and promote your business. Whether speaking at a conference, networking event, or team meeting, several speech topics can help you make an impact.

1. Leadership

Businesses need people to be able to lead. A speech about leadership can focus on the characteristics of leaders. It also discusses the benefits of giving your team the opportunity to lead. You can also find strategies to develop leadership skills. Also, you can foster a culture that supports leadership within your company.

2. Innovation

To stay ahead in an ever-changing business environment, innovation is essential. An innovation speech can emphasize the importance of creativity and the benefits of taking chances. It also highlights the need to embrace change. The speech can also discuss the role of innovation to drive business growth and the potential pitfalls associated.

3. Customer Service

A successful business is built on customer service. A speech about customer service can discuss the components of great customer service. It includes- how to build strong customer relationships and the effects of poor customer service on business success.

You can also discuss strategies to improve customer service. For instance, creating a customer-centric culture or implementing customer feedback mechanisms. Additionally you can also use best customer service software for better experience and better enhancement.

4. Business Ethics

Every businessperson must consider business ethics. It includes the importance of ethical behavior and the possible consequences of unprofessional behavior. It can also explore the benefits of an ethical culture. Also it includes ways of creating ethical policies and encouraging ethical behavior in your company.

5. Marketing

Marketing is crucial for retaining and attracting customers. Marketing speeches can cover branding, messaging, and targeting. You can also discuss strategies to develop a marketing plan. Also, they measured effectiveness, adapt to changing market conditions, and adjust accordingly.

Any business’s lifeblood is its sales team. Sales speeches includes practical elements such as building relationships and identifying customer needs. You can also find strategies to develop a sales process, measure sales effectiveness, and motivate sales teams.

7. Team Building

For fostering collaboration and productivity in the workplace, team building is essential. A speech about team building can discuss the benefits of teamwork and the elements that make for effective teams. It also discusses the dangers of poor team dynamics. This speech can also discuss strategies to build strong teams such as creating a culture and setting clear goals.

8. Time Management

Businesses need people to manage their time effectively. Time management is essential for any businessperson. You can discuss the benefits and common time-wasting activities. You may include the possible consequences of poor time management. Discuss strategies to manage time such as prioritizing tasks and setting realistic deadlines.

9. Financial Management

Business success is dependent on financial management. A talk on financial management can cover the basics of financial planning and accounting. Also include strategies to manage cash flow, analyze financial performance, or make informed financial decisions.

10. Human Resources

Every business needs human resources. A speech can discuss the components of human resource management such as training and recruitment . You can also discuss strategies to build a strong and engaged workforce. It includes creating a positive work environment, offering employee benefits, and encouraging work-life balance.

11. Internal Auditing

An internal auditor assesses the quality of corporate governance processes. Also, they consider risk management systems within an organization. Further, they reports this to the Board’s audit committee and executive management.

They consider more than financial statements reporting risks. They also look at issues like the organization’s reputation, its operational efficiency, strategic growth, and how it treats employees. An internal auditor’s independent role makes them an advisor trusted by the Board and executive management. They are able to ensure that risks have been managed.

12. Operations

Operation is a key aspect of running a business that succeeds. Operations include creating a business plan, selecting the right location, and financing. You may not be aware of the other essential aspects of creating an efficient and successful business. There are many informative speech topics available on the topic. What is the best way for new employees to be trained? Is there a secret ingredient that makes telemarketing campaigns successful? These and other business topics will impress your audience.

13. Starting a Business

It can be overwhelming and exciting to start a business. There are many responsibilities, from naming your company to filing taxes. You can ease the stress by using time management and planning techniques.

You should start by defining your idea and researching the market. This will allow you to find your niche and create a customer base that will last for many years. This is a great time to make your business plan and decide on the legal structure you want. This will allow you to minimize tax obligations and avoid costly pitfalls. It will also ensure that your company is legally compliant. The best part? The best part?

14. Business Ethics

Business ethics is the study and practice of ethical business practices. This covers issues like whistleblowing, corporate culture, and social responsibility. Virtue ethics is one prominent approach. This idea is based upon the notion that certain practices have particular goods and require cultivating specific moral virtues.

Another way to approach the issue is to examine how companies interact with consumers. Companies may mislead customers about their products and services. This can lead to dissatisfaction. Business ethics refers to the principles and ethical issues that are encountered in business. It covers all aspects of business conduct, from the conduct of managers and executives to the conduct of employees. It includes policies and practices companies use to avoid breaking laws or moral dilemmas. A company’s business ethics guarantees that employees, customers, and all other stakeholders can trust it to do the right things.

Business ethics is a complicated subject. Although there are many theories and approaches, business ethics is essential for every business. It affects the way businesses treat their employees and the communities in which they operate as well as their shareholders.

15. Marketing

Successful marketing campaigns understand their audience and craft messages to them. They also find creative ways to deliver solutions and grow the company’s credibility and authority.

Business speech topics include marketing research, product promotion, selling and distribution, and market research. Marketing speech topics could also include e-marketing strategies, viral advertising and surveys that help companies to build new customer relationships. For your next meeting, there are many topics for business speeches that you could use. It is important to choose topics that are both informative and entertaining. These topics use words such as what, who, where, and why, along with steps, methods, secrets, or benefits.

16. Environment and Climate Change

Climate change and the environment are becoming increasingly important business issues. Its impact on agriculture, property values, and supply chains increases, and businesses realize its importance. Fossil fuel combustion is the main source of greenhouse gas emission. These traps heat in the atmosphere, which causes temperatures to rise. Carbon dioxide is also released into the atmosphere by deforestation.

Sport is a great way to stay fit, improve mental health, and learn new skills. Sports can also be a great way to build community and provide a great social opportunity for groups. Sports are a popular sport that many people enjoy. Even if they don’t win, it can be very rewarding. However, as in business, adversity will always be there. How you handle it will determine your success or failure. Successful sportspeople have developed mental resilience to overcome adversity and get the most out of themselves. They are able to share their winning mindset with their audience to help them reach their goals and overcome adversity.

18. Technology

Technology has a significant impact on our daily lives and business. Technology is used by companies to develop new products and services and to deliver them to customers on time and within budget. Technology can vary widely. However, it can be described as the tools and machinery we use to solve real-world issues. It can include tangible tools such as machines or utensils, but also intangible tools such as software. Technology can be used to improve productivity and cut costs in your business. It can also improve communication and allow businesses to interact with clients.

19. Investing

It can help you earn income and improve financial security. You can also use it to help you achieve goals such as purchasing a house or retiring. It is important to understand the meaning of investing before you begin fully.

Investing is purchasing assets such as stocks and bonds with the hope that they will appreciate over time and generate income. Investors may face a variety of risks depending on the asset they are investing in. Investors may also lose some of their investment, or face unexpected expenses.

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Elements for Business Speech

A business speech is a communication tool that conveys critical information. Also, it persuades an audience and promotes a company or organization. A business speech must include the following essential elements:

1. Clear Purpose

The purpose of a business speech must be clear. The speaker must clearly state what they are trying to do with their speech.

2. Audience Analysis

This will allow you to understand better their needs and interests and their level of knowledge on the topic. Also, you must tailor the speech to their audience, making it more effective and engaging.

3. Structure

Keeping the audience interested and on track with your business speech is important. Each section should serve a purpose and have a clear introduction.

4. Clear and concise language

Business speeches should be simple, clear, and understandable. Avoid jargon, technical terms, and complicated language that confuse the audience.

5. Engaging delivery

As important as the content is its delivery, so too is engaging delivery. To engage and keep their attention, the speaker must use appropriate body language, eye contact, and vocal variety.

6. Persuasive Techniques

Depending on the purpose, persuasive techniques can be used. It helps to persuade an audience member to act or change their behavior. These techniques include emotional appeals, statistics and repetition, and rhetorical devices.

7. Call to Action

The end of a business speech should include a call to action. This will encourage the audience to take specific actions or make a decision. The call to action should be consistent with the purpose of the speech and give a clear next step.

Ways to Deliver Speech Efficiently

Delivering an efficient business speech requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some strategies for providing an effective and efficient business speech:

1. Start with a strong opening

The opening of a speech is crucial for capturing the audience’s attention. Also, it sets the tone for the rest of the speech. Start with a powerful opening statement or a compelling story that engages the audience.

2. Know your audience

Understanding the audience’s needs, interests, and knowledge is essential. Consider what they hope to gain from the speech. Tailor your message to meet their needs and interests.

3. Keep it concise

Time is precious, and audiences have short attention spans. Keep your speech brief and focused on the key messages you want to convey. Avoid going off-topic or providing unnecessary details that could distract the audience.

4. Use visuals

Visuals can help illustrate key points and make complex information easier to understand. Use visuals and make sure they enhance your message rather than distract from it.

5. Use stories and examples

Stories and examples can make your speech more engaging. Use real-life examples, anecdotes, and case studies to make your message more relatable and memorable.

6. Practice, practice, practice

Practice your speech several times before delivering it. Record yourself and review your performance to identify areas that need improvement. Practice your delivery, pacing, and timing to ensure you stay within your allotted time.

7. Engage the audience

Engage your audience by asking questions, eliciting feedback, and encouraging participation. This can help keep the audience interested and invested in your message.

8. End with a call to action

End your speech with a clear call to action that encourages the audience to take a specific action. This call to action should align with the speech’s purpose and provide a clear next step for the audience.

This is the end of this post, which is about business speech topics. On the other hand, here in this post, we mentioned 17+ interesting and stunning business speech topics that you could choose in 2023. Some topics can engage your audience, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned speaker.

Remember, the key to delivering a successful business speech is to do your research, prepare thoroughly, and deliver your message with clarity and confidence. With the right combination of preparation and presentation, you can deliver a business speech that informs, inspires, and captivates your audience.

Furthermore, these business speech topics can be used to educate, persuade, and inspire your audience. Whether speaking to a large crowd or a small team, these topics can help you make an impact and achieve your business goals.

Q1. How can I keep my business speech concise and to the point?

To keep your business speech concise and to the point, start by setting a clear objective or goal for your presentation. Furthermore, you should focus only on the most important points that support your objective and avoid including unnecessary information or details. Use clear and simple language, and avoid technical terms because your audience may not understand. Practice your delivery to stay on track and avoid going off on tangents.

Q2. How can I prepare for a business speech?

To prepare for a business speech, research your topic thoroughly and organize your thoughts and ideas. Create an outline or script to guide your presentation, and practice your delivery until you feel confident and comfortable. Lastly, make sure that you have all the necessary materials and equipment, such as slides or handouts, and arrive early to set up.

Q3. How can I engage my audience during a business speech?

To engage your audience during a business speech, introduce yourself and acknowledge their presence. Use eye contact and open body language to connect with your audience and build self-confidence. Use interactive activities like asking questions or inviting feedback to encourage participation and involvement. Lastly, make sure that you are speaking to your audience’s level of understanding and addressing their needs and interests.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 105 interesting persuasive speech topics for any project.

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Are you struggling to find good persuasive speech topics? It can be hard to find a topic that interests both you and your audience, but in this guide we've done the hard work and created a list of 105 great persuasive speech ideas. They're organized into ten categories and cover a variety of topics, so you're sure to find one that interests you.

In addition to our list, we also go over which factors make good persuasive speech topics and three tips you should follow when researching and writing your persuasive speech.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

What makes certain persuasive speech topics better than others? There are numerous reasons, but in this section we discuss three of the most important factors of great topics for a persuasive speech.

It's Something You Know About or Are Interested in Learning About

The most important factor in choosing and creating a great persuasive speech is picking a topic you care about and are interested in. You'll need to do a lot of research on this topic, and if it's something you like learning about, that'll make the process much easier and more enjoyable. It'll also help you sound passionate and informed when you talk, both important factors in giving an excellent persuasive speech.

It's a Topic People Care About

In fourth grade, after being told I could give a persuasive speech on any topic I wanted to , I chose to discuss why the Saguaro cactus should be the United State's national plant. Even though I gave an impassioned talk and drew a life-size Saguaro cactus on butcher paper to hang behind me, I doubt anyone enjoyed the speech much.

I'd recently returned from a family vacation to Arizona where I'd seen Saguaro cacti for the first time and decided they were the coolest thing ever. However, most people don't care that much about Saguaro cacti, and most people don't care what our national plant is or if we even have one (for the record, the US has a national flower, and it's the rose).

Spare yourself the smattering of bored applause my nine-old self got at the end of my speech and choose something you think people will be interested in hearing about. This also ties into knowing your audience, which we discuss more in the final section.

It Isn't Overdone

When I was in high school, nearly every persuasive speech my classmates and I were assigned was the exact same topic: should the drinking age be lowered to 18? I got this prompt in English class, on standardized tests, in speech and debate class, etc. I've written and presented about it so often I could probably still rattle off all the main points of my old speeches word-for-word.

You can imagine that everyone's eyes glazed over whenever classmates gave their speeches on this topic. We'd heard about it so many times that, even if it was a topic we cared about, speeches on it just didn't interest us anymore.

The are many potential topics for a persuasive speech. Be wary of choosing one that's cliche or overdone. Even if you give a great speech, it'll be harder to keep your audience interested if they feel like they already know what you're going to say.

An exception to this rule is that if you feel you have a new viewpoint or facts about the topic that currently aren't common knowledge. Including them can make an overdone topic interesting. If you do this, be sure to make it clear early on in your speech that you have unique info or opinions on the topic so your audience knows to expect something new.

105 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

Here's our list of 105 great persuasive speech ideas. We made sure to choose topics that aren't overdone, yet that many people will have an interest in, and we also made a point of choosing topics with multiple viewpoints rather than simplistic topics that have a more obvious right answer (i.e. Is bullying bad?). The topics are organized into ten categories.

Arts/Culture

Should art and music therapy be covered by health insurance?
Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
Should all national museums be free to citizens?
Should graffiti be considered art?
Should offensive language be removed from works of classic literature?
Are paper books better than e-books?
Should all interns be paid for their work?
Should employees receive bonuses for walking or biking to work?
Will Brexit hurt or help the UK's economy?
Should all people over the age of 65 be able to ride the bus for free?
Should the federal minimum wage be increased?
Should tipping in restaurants be mandatory?
Should Black Friday sales be allowed to start on Thanksgiving?
Should students who bully others be expelled?
Should all schools require students wear uniforms?
Should boys and girls be taught in separate classrooms?
Should students be allowed to listen to music during study hall?
Should all elementary schools be required to teach a foreign language?
Should schools include meditation or relaxation breaks during the day?
Should grades in gym class affect students' GPAs?
Should teachers get a bonus when their students score well on standardized tests?
Should children of undocumented immigrants be allowed to attend public schools?
Should students get paid for getting a certain GPA?
Should students be allowed to have their cell phones with them during school?
Should high school students be allowed to leave school during lunch breaks?
Should Greek life at colleges be abolished?
Should high school students be required to volunteer a certain number of hours before they can graduate?
Should schools still teach cursive handwriting?
What are the best ways for schools to stop bullying?
Should prostitution be legalized?
Should people with more than one DUI lose their driver's license?
Should people be required to shovel snow from the sidewalks in front of their house?
Should minors be able to drink alcohol in their home if they have their parent's consent?
Should guns be allowed on college campuses?
Should flag burning as a form of protest be illegal?
Should welfare recipients be required to pass a drug test?
Should white supremacist groups be allowed to hold rallies in public places?
Should assault weapons be illegal?
Should the death penalty be abolished?
Should beauty pageants for children be banned?
Is it OK to refuse to serve same-sex couples based on religious beliefs?
Should transgender people be allowed to serve in the military?
Is it better to live together before marriage or to wait?
Should affirmative action be allowed?
Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
Should Columbus Day be replaced with Indigenous Peoples' Day?

Government/Politics

Should the government spend more money on developing high-speed rail lines and less on building new roads?
Should the government be allowed to censor internet content deemed inappropriate?
Should Puerto Rico become the 51st state?
Should Scotland declare independence from the United Kingdom?
Whose face should be on the next new currency printed by the US?
Should people convicted of drug possession be sent to recovery programs instead of jail?
Should voting be made compulsory?
Who was the best American president?
Should the military budget be reduced?
Should the President be allowed to serve more than two terms?
Should a border fence be built between the United States and Mexico?
Should countries pay ransom to terrorist groups in order to free hostages?
Should minors be able to purchase birth control without their parent's consent?
Should hiding or lying about your HIV status with someone you're sleeping with be illegal?
Should governments tax soda and other sugary drinks and use the revenue for public health?
Should high schools provide free condoms to students?
Should the US switch to single-payer health care?
Should healthy people be required to regularly donate blood?
Should assisted suicide be legal?
Should religious organizations be required to pay taxes?
Should priests be allowed to get married?
Should the religious slaughter of animals be banned?
Should the Church of Scientology be exempt from paying taxes?
Should women be allowed to be priests?
Should countries be allowed to only accept refugees with certain religious beliefs?
Should public prayer be allowed in schools?

Science/Environment

Should human cloning be allowed?
Should people be allowed to own exotic animals like tigers and monkeys?
Should "animal selfies" in tourist locations with well-known animal species (like koalas and tigers) be allowed?
Should genetically modified foods be sold in grocery stores?
Should people be allowed to own pit bulls?
Should parents be allowed to choose the sex of their unborn children?
Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?
What is the best type of renewable energy?
Should plastic bags be banned in grocery stores?
Should the United States rejoin the Paris Agreement?
Should puppy mills be banned?
Should fracking be legal?
Should animal testing be illegal?
Should offshore drilling be allowed in protected marine areas?
Should the US government increase NASA's budget?
Should Pluto still be considered a planet?
Should college athletes be paid for being on a sports team?
Should all athletes be required to pass regular drug tests?
Should professional female athletes be paid the same as male athletes in the same sport?
Are there any cases when athletes should be allowed to use steroids?
Should college sports teams receive less funding?
Should boxing be illegal?
Should schools be required to teach all students how to swim?
Should cheerleading be considered a sport?
Should parents let their children play tackle football?
Will robots reduce or increase human employment opportunities?
What age should children be allowed to have a cell phone?
Should libraries be replaced with unlimited access to e-books?
Overall, has technology helped connect people or isolate them?
Should self-driving cars be legal?
Should all new buildings be energy efficient?
Is Net Neutrality a good thing or a bad thing?
Do violent video games encourage players to become violent in real life?

3 Bonus Tips for Crafting Your Persuasive Speech

Of course, giving a great persuasive speech requires more than just choosing a good topic. Follow the three tips below to create an outstanding speech that'll interest and impress your audience.

Do Your Research

For a persuasive speech, there's nothing worse than getting an audience question that shows you misunderstood the issue or left an important piece out. It makes your entire speech look weak and unconvincing.

Before you start writing a single word of your speech, be sure to do lots of research on all sides of the topic. Look at different sources and points of view to be sure you're getting the full picture, and if you know any experts on the topic, be sure to ask their opinion too.

Consider All the Angles

Persuasive speech topics are rarely black and white, which means there will be multiple sides and viewpoints on the topic. For example, for the topic "Should people be allowed to own pit bulls?" there are two obvious viewpoints: everyone should be allowed to own a pit bull if they want to, and no one should be allowed to own a pit bull. But there are other options you should also consider: people should only own a pit bull if they pass a dog training class, people should be able to own pit bulls, but only if it's the only dog they own, people should be able to own pi tbulls but only if they live a certain distance from schools, people should be able to own pit bulls only if the dog passes an obedience class, etc.

Thinking about all these angles and including them in your speech will make you seem well-informed on the topic, and it'll increase the quality of your speech by looking at difference nuances of the issue.

Know Your Audience

Whenever you give a speech, it's important to consider your audience, and this is especially true for persuasive speeches when you're trying to convince people to believe a certain viewpoint. When writing your speech, think about what your audience likely already knows about the topic, what they probably need explained, and what aspects of the topic they care about most. Also consider what the audience will be most concerned about for a certain topic, and be sure to address those concerns.

For example, if you're giving a speech to a Catholic organization on why you think priests should be allowed to marry, you don't need to go over the history of Catholicism or its core beliefs (which they probably already know), but you should mention any research or prominent opinions that support your view (which they likely don't know about). They may be concerned that priests who marry won't be as committed to God or their congregations, so be sure to address those concerns and why they shouldn't worry about them as much as they may think. Discussing your topic with people (ideally those with viewpoints similar to those of your future audience) before you give your speech is a good way to get a better understanding of how your audience thinks.

More Resources for Writing Persuasive Speeches

If you need more guidance or just want to check out some examples of great persuasive writing, consider checking out the following books:

Lend Me Your Ears: Great Speeches in History by William Safire—This collection of great speeches throughout history will help you decide how to style your own argument.
The Essentials of Persuasive Public Speaking by Sims Wyeth—For quick direct tips on public speaking, try this all-purpose guide.
Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World's Top Minds by Carmine Gallo—This popular book breaks down what makes TED talks work and how you can employ those skills in your own presentations.
We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Make Good Art by Neil Gaiman—These two recent speeches by contemporary writers offer stellar examples of how to craft a compelling (and engaging) argument.

Conclusion: Persuasive Speech Ideas

Good persuasive speech topics can be difficult to think of, but in this guide we've compiled a list of 105 interesting persuasive speech topics for you to look through.

The best persuasive speech ideas will be on a topic you're interested in, aren't overdone, and will be about something your audience cares about.

After you've chosen your topic, keep these three tips in mind when writing your persuasive speech:

Do your research
Consider all the angles
Know your audience

What's Next?

Now that you have persuasive speech topics, it's time to hone your persuasive speech techniques. Find out what ethos, pathos, logos, and kairos are and how to use them here .

Looking to take your persuasive technique from speech to sheets (of paper)? Get our three key tips on how to write an argumentative essay , or learn by reading through our thorough breakdown of how to build an essay, step by step .

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Interested in learning about other great extracurricular opportunities? Learn more about job shadowing , community service , and volunteer abroad programs.

Still trying to figure out your courses? Check out our expert guide on which classes you should take in high school.

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points? We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

What’s covered:, how to pick an awesome persuasive speech topic, 112 engaging persuasive speech topics, tips for preparing your persuasive speech.

Writing a stellar persuasive speech requires a carefully crafted argument that will resonate with your audience to sway them to your side. This feat can be challenging to accomplish, but an engaging, thought-provoking speech topic is an excellent place to start.

When it comes time to select a topic for your persuasive speech, you may feel overwhelmed by all the options to choose from—or your brain may be drawing a completely blank slate. If you’re having trouble thinking of the perfect topic, don’t worry. We’re here to help!

In this post, we’re sharing how to choose the perfect persuasive speech topic and tips to prepare for your speech. Plus, you’ll find 112 persuasive speech topics that you can take directly from us or use as creative inspiration for your own ideas!

Choose Something You’re Passionate About

It’s much easier to write, research, and deliver a speech about a cause you care about. Even if it’s challenging to find a topic that completely sparks your interest, try to choose a topic that aligns with your passions.

However, keep in mind that not everyone has the same interests as you. Try to choose a general topic to grab the attention of the majority of your audience, but one that’s specific enough to keep them engaged.

For example, suppose you’re giving a persuasive speech about book censorship. In that case, it’s probably too niche to talk about why “To Kill a Mockingbird” shouldn’t be censored (even if it’s your favorite book), and it’s too broad to talk about media censorship in general.

Steer Clear of Cliches

Have you already heard a persuasive speech topic presented dozens of times? If so, it’s probably not an excellent choice for your speech—even if it’s an issue you’re incredibly passionate about.

Although polarizing topics like abortion and climate control are important to discuss, they aren’t great persuasive speech topics. Most people have already formed an opinion on these topics, which will either cause them to tune out or have a negative impression of your speech.

Instead, choose topics that are fresh, unique, and new. If your audience has never heard your idea presented before, they will be more open to your argument and engaged in your speech.

Have a Clear Side of Opposition

For a persuasive speech to be engaging, there must be a clear side of opposition. To help determine the arguability of your topic, ask yourself: “If I presented my viewpoint on this topic to a group of peers, would someone disagree with me?” If the answer is yes, then you’ve chosen a great topic!

Now that we’ve laid the groundwork for what it takes to choose a great persuasive speech topic, here are over one hundred options for you to choose from.

Should high school athletes get tested for steroids?
Should schools be required to have physical education courses?
Should sports grades in school depend on things like athletic ability?
What sport should be added to or removed from the Olympics?
Should college athletes be able to make money off of their merchandise?
Should sports teams be able to recruit young athletes without a college degree?
Should we consider video gamers as professional athletes?
Is cheerleading considered a sport?
Should parents allow their kids to play contact sports?
Should professional female athletes be paid the same as professional male athletes?
Should college be free at the undergraduate level?
Is the traditional college experience obsolete?
Should you choose a major based on your interests or your potential salary?
Should high school students have to meet a required number of service hours before graduating?
Should teachers earn more or less based on how their students perform on standardized tests?
Are private high schools more effective than public high schools?
Should there be a minimum number of attendance days required to graduate?
Are GPAs harmful or helpful?
Should schools be required to teach about standardized testing?
Should Greek Life be banned in the United States?
Should schools offer science classes explicitly about mental health?
Should students be able to bring their cell phones to school?
Should all public restrooms be all-gender?
Should undocumented immigrants have the same employment and education opportunities as citizens?
Should everyone be paid a living wage regardless of their employment status?
Should supremacist groups be able to hold public events?
Should guns be allowed in public places?
Should the national drinking age be lowered?
Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
Should the government raise or lower the retirement age?
Should the government be able to control the population?
Is the death penalty ethical?

Environment

Should stores charge customers for plastic bags?
Should breeding animals (dogs, cats, etc.) be illegal?
Is it okay to have exotic animals as pets?
Should people be fined for not recycling?
Should compost bins become mandatory for restaurants?
Should electric vehicles have their own transportation infrastructure?
Would heavier fining policies reduce corporations’ emissions?
Should hunting be encouraged or illegal?
Should reusable diapers replace disposable diapers?

Science & Technology

Is paper media more reliable than digital news sources?
Should automated/self-driving cars be legalized?
Should schools be required to provide laptops to all students?
Should software companies be able to have pre-downloaded programs and applications on devices?
Should drones be allowed in military warfare?
Should scientists invest more or less money into cancer research?
Should cloning be illegal?
Should societies colonize other planets?
Should there be legal oversight over the development of technology?

Social Media

Should there be an age limit on social media?
Should cyberbullying have the same repercussions as in-person bullying?
Are online relationships as valuable as in-person relationships?
Does “cancel culture” have a positive or negative impact on societies?
Are social media platforms reliable information or news sources?
Should social media be censored?
Does social media create an unrealistic standard of beauty?
Is regular social media usage damaging to real-life interactions?
Is social media distorting democracy?
How many branches of government should there be?
Who is the best/worst president of all time?
How long should judges serve in the U.S. Supreme Court?
Should a more significant portion of the U.S. budget be contributed towards education?
Should the government invest in rapid transcontinental transportation infrastructure?
Should airport screening be more or less stringent?
Should the electoral college be dismantled?
Should the U.S. have open borders?
Should the government spend more or less money on space exploration?
Should students sing Christmas carols, say the pledge of allegiance, or perform other tangentially religious activities?
Should nuns and priests become genderless roles?
Should schools and other public buildings have prayer rooms?
Should animal sacrifice be legal if it occurs in a religious context?
Should countries be allowed to impose a national religion on their citizens?
Should the church be separated from the state?
Does freedom of religion positively or negatively affect societies?

Parenting & Family

Is it better to have children at a younger or older age?
Is it better for children to go to daycare or stay home with their parents?
Does birth order affect personality?
Should parents or the school system teach their kids about sex?
Are family traditions important?
Should parents smoke or drink around young children?
Should “spanking” children be illegal?
Should parents use swear words in front of their children?
Should parents allow their children to play violent video games?

Entertainment

Should all actors be paid the same regardless of gender or ethnicity?
Should all award shows be based on popular vote?
Who should be responsible for paying taxes on prize money, the game show staff or the contestants?
Should movies and television shows have ethnicity and gender quotas?
Should newspapers and magazines move to a completely online format?
Should streaming services like Netflix and Hulu be free for students?
Is the movie rating system still effective?
Should celebrities have more privacy rights?

Arts & Humanities

Are libraries becoming obsolete?
Should all schools have mandatory art or music courses in their curriculum?
Should offensive language be censored from classic literary works?
Is it ethical for museums to keep indigenous artifacts?
Should digital designs be considered an art form?
Should abstract art be considered an art form?
Is music therapy effective?
Should tattoos be regarded as “professional dress” for work?
Should schools place greater emphasis on the arts programs?
Should euthanasia be allowed in hospitals and other clinical settings?
Should the government support and implement universal healthcare?
Would obesity rates lower if the government intervened to make healthy foods more affordable?
Should teenagers be given access to birth control pills without parental consent?
Should food allergies be considered a disease?
Should health insurance cover homeopathic medicine?
Is using painkillers healthy?
Should genetically modified foods be banned?
Should there be a tax on unhealthy foods?
Should tobacco products be banned from the country?
Should the birth control pill be free for everyone?

If you need more help brainstorming topics, especially those that are personalized to your interests, you can use CollegeVine’s free AI tutor, Ivy . Ivy can help you come up with original persuasive speech ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

Do Your Research

A great persuasive speech is supported with plenty of well-researched facts and evidence. So before you begin the writing process, research both sides of the topic you’re presenting in-depth to gain a well-rounded perspective of the topic.

Understand Your Audience

It’s critical to understand your audience to deliver a great persuasive speech. After all, you are trying to convince them that your viewpoint is correct. Before writing your speech, consider the facts and information that your audience may already know, and think about the beliefs and concerns they may have about your topic. Then, address these concerns in your speech, and be mindful to include fresh, new information.

Have Someone Read Your Speech

Once you have finished writing your speech, have someone read it to check for areas of strength and improvement. You can use CollegeVine’s free essay review tool to get feedback on your speech from a peer!

Practice Makes Perfect

After completing your final draft, the key to success is to practice. Present your speech out loud in front of a mirror, your family, friends, and basically, anyone who will listen. Not only will the feedback of others help you to make your speech better, but you’ll become more confident in your presentation skills and may even be able to commit your speech to memory.

Hopefully, these ideas have inspired you to write a powerful, unique persuasive speech. With the perfect topic, plenty of practice, and a boost of self-confidence, we know you’ll impress your audience with a remarkable speech!

The Best Business Speech Topics for Students

As a student, you can create your ideal future by honing your communication abilities and embracing the world of public speaking.

One perfect approach to do this is to master the art of delivering high-impact business presentations as a keynote speaker. You can start by learning to brainstorm themes and ideas when sifting through different business speech topics for your school or workplace project.

A business speech is a purposefully delivered verbal address within a workplace or business organization. It is an essential form of business communication where the audience attentively listens to the oration as it is being given.

In this article, we share a comprehensive list containing the best possible business speech topics by focusing on themes and scholarly areas of specialization. We recommend that you pick out subjects that appeal to current industry trends and blend this with your unique points of view that will capture everyone's attention.

We hope our guidelines help you pick an attractive but practical business topic.

Understanding Business Speech Writing

Before we delve deeper into the topic, we must explain the essence of business speech writing.

Speech writers in the business world are responsible for crafting carefully structured scripts that guide speakers' addresses. Although speech writing is commonly associated with political contexts, the demand for this skill extends beyond politics. Various sectors, ranging from business executives to motivational speakers, seek assistance in developing impactful speeches tailored to engage and resonate with their specific audience.

This is one of the reasons why the topic of speech writing is being studied across different institutions of higher learning.

Key Considerations for Business Speech Topic Selection

Now let's take a look at what to consider when selecting a hot business topic for your speech:

● The intended audience: First, you must consider your target demographic as well as their interests and knowledge level. This ensures that the chosen topic is both meaningful and engaging for them

● The purpose of the business speech: Ensure you understand what you want from the address. Clarity of purpose is always paramount

● Relevance: As clichéd as this may sound, ensure that you choose a topic that associates with relevant issues in the business landscape or industry

● Length and Scope: Finally, evaluate the time allotted for your speech and work within this time frame. This ensures that you choose a topic with enough content and that is relevant to make it worthwhile

Different Topics You Can Select For Your Address

The following sections offer practical business speech-writing topics to get you started. We initially focus on creative, informative, and persuasive business speech sample topic ideas, then on specific scholarly areas of specialization.

Creative Business Speech Topics

1. Transforming traditional business operations through a retail renaissance

2. Leading through the storm: Navigating management challenges in crisis

3. Staffing innovations: Embracing creative solutions for talent acquisition

4. Unconventional team-building methods that foster collaboration

5. Unlocking the hidden potential of knowledge management

6. Franchise fusion: Crafting agreements for unprecedented win-win ventures

7. Strategic e-marketing that makes waves across industries

8. E-marketing quandaries: Addressing strategic challenges with finesse

9. Small wonders: Unleashing entrepreneurial potential with creative ideas

10. The power of place: Crafting your ideal working environment

11. Beyond boundaries: Unveiling the ever-evolving global business environment

12. Persuasive powerplay: Mastering the art of influential business speeches

13. Untold stories of triumph from inspiring business owners

14. The presentation puzzle: Unconventional approaches to captivate audiences

15. Change catalysts: Managing organizational transformation with finesse

16. How can you craft compelling research papers in business?

17. Ideas in action: Empowering employees to implement creative solutions

18. Consumer chronicles: Unraveling the mysteries of consumer behavior

19. Embracing change in business practices through managerial metamorphosis

20. Communication compass: Navigating the path to effective business dialogue

21. Plan for prosperity: Unleashing the power of strategic business plans

22. Beyond paychecks: Rethinking performance-related incentives for motivation

Informative Business Speech Topics

1. Successful retail business operations: Key strategies and best practices

2. Leadership and management challenges in today's business environment

3. Recruitment and staffing decisions: How to find the right talent

4. Creative team-building methods for enhanced collaboration and performance

5. Unveiling desirable business topics: Engaging ideas for presentations

6. Knowledge management: Unlocking the power of information in organizations

7. Exploring good franchising business agreements for sustainable growth

8. Strategic e-marketing: Navigating digital landscapes for business success

9. Informative business speech topics: Inspiring ideas for engaging audiences

10. Strategic e-marketing issues and solutions: Insights for effective campaigns

11. Generating small business ideas: From vision to profitable ventures

12. Designing your working environment: Enhancing productivity and satisfaction

13. How to handle dissatisfied customers

14. Understanding the business environment: Trends, challenges, and impacts

15. What are the challenges, strategies, and success stories of small businesses?

16. How to captivate audiences and deliver impact in meetings

17. Techniques for effective communication

18. How to manage organizational change to have smooth transitions

19. Critical components for successful business academic writing

Persuasive Speech Topics

1. Why you need advanced strategies for retail business operations

2. Importance of unleashing potential and driving success through leadership

3. Proven recruitment and staffing methods that are effective

4. Creative and proven methods for collaboration and productivity

5. Why you must maximize the value of knowledge management

6. Why you should make symbiotic agreements for win-win partnerships

7. How to shape the business world like a champion

8. Why the branding concept of a company matters

9. Using strategic e-marketing to level up your business game

10. Crack the code of e-marketing challenges like a professional

11. Top ideas to boost your entrepreneurial journey

12. Unleash the secret powers of a productive work environment

13. Be a business communication superstar: Secrets to clear and impactful messaging

14. Navigating trends and transformations to shape business environments

15. Empowering small business owners: Strategies for success and sustainability

16. Developing a comprehensive business plan

17. Fair performance-related pay: Motivating employees through rewarding results

18. Achieving work-life balance: Promoting employee well-being and productivity

19. Emergency or controversial issues: Strategies for effective crisis communication and management

20. Exploring globalization trade opportunities: Benefits and challenges for businesses

21. Leveraging strategic e-marketing for competitive advantage: Case studies and insights

22. Promoting corporate responsibility: Ethical practices for sustainable success

23. Innovating to reduce production costs: Strategies for operational efficiency

24. Five essential employer responsibilities: Creating a supportive work environment

Breaking Down Business Speech Topics Based on Your Area of Specialization

We also recommend that students select topics that align with their field of study. For instance, a business administration student can focus on customer acquisition, finance, or marketing issues.

Here are more examples.

Business Administration Speech Ideas

1. How to power businesses through organizational change management

2. Unleashing the power of knowledge management in operations

3. Crafting effective franchising business agreements for success and growth

4. A discussion on strategic e-marketing in business administration

5. Supercharge your leadership skills to conquer management challenges

Marketing and Advertising Speech Ideas

1. Strategic e-marketing: What are the Opportunities and challenges in advertising?

2. Harnessing the power of persuasive speeches in marketing

3. Crafting an effective business plan: Essential steps for marketing success

4. What are the effects of consumer behavior on advertising strategies?

5. Trade opportunities and marketing strategies for business growth

6. Developing persuasive speeches for workplace meetings

Entrepreneurship and Small Business Speech Ideas

1. How to come up with and execute small business ideas

2. What makes a business plan successful?

3. Exporting issues related to government regulations

4. How do small companies overcome challenges and implement workers' ideas?

5. Unveiling the power of creative team building

6. Addressing the opportunities and challenges in today's market for small businesses

7. Unique manufacturing methods that reduce production costs

8. Enhancing logistics and transportation is critical for economic growth

Leadership and Management Speech Topic Ideas for 2023

1. Overcoming leadership and management challenges in today's business environment

2. Effective recruitment and staffing decisions: Building high-performing teams

3. Inspiring leadership: Strategies for motivating small business owners

4. How to avoid wastage due to churning frozen food products

5. Navigating organizational change: Effective management for smooth transitions

6. Harnessing emotional intelligence: The key to effective leadership and management

Finance and Accounting Speech Topic Ideas for 2023

1. Exploring financial strategies for successful retail business practice

2. Financial leadership: Overcoming challenges in a dynamic business environment

3. Effective decision-making in recruitment and staffing: An economic perspective

4. Maximizing profitability: Innovative approaches to performance-related pay

5. Navigating government regulations: Ensuring compliance and financial success

Human Resources and Organizational Behavior Speech Topic Ideas for 2023

1. Effective recruitment strategies: Making successful staffing decisions for business growth

2. Nurturing a positive work environment: Enhancing employee motivation and satisfaction

3. Managing organizational change: Strategies for smooth transitions and adaptation

4. Building high-performing teams: Unlocking the power of creative team building methods

5. Ethical leadership: Balancing corporate responsibility and business success

6. Should you have a ceiling on weekly working hours?

Enjoy Custom Speech Topic Assistance

In the business world, great speeches can make a lasting impression during any meeting presentation.

Delivering an impactful and persuasive presentation starts with selecting the right topic. To do this effectively, you must consider your audience, define your purpose, pick timely and relevant subjects, and align the speech's length and scope to maximize effectiveness.

Whether it's creative or informative content that you're after, ensuring every word is chosen for maximum impact will help you resonate with listeners. This is where My Custom Essays come in. Our experienced professional writers are here to help create compelling business speeches that captivate audiences every time.

So don't miss out on this opportunity – contact us today for assistance crafting powerful presentations that get results and any help writing theses.

1. Can I use these business speech topics for my college assignments?

Yes, absolutely! We have carefully curated them to suit different interests and scholarly areas of specialization, making them perfect for your assignments or presentations.

2. How can I make my business speech more engaging?

Consider incorporating storytelling techniques, using visual aids, and involving the audience.

3. Are any additional resources available to help me improve my public speaking skills?

Yes. You can explore online courses, join public speaking clubs or organizations, and practice regularly.

60 Interesting Public Speaking Topics to Engage Your Audience

If you’re the type of person who gets head spinningly, palms-sweaty nervous when asked to make a public speech, you’re certainly not alone. As intimating and intimidating as it may seem, it’s true that having the ability to confidently stand in front of an audience and deliver a speech can be a super useful tool. Not only could it bring you better marks in school, it’ll also come in handy in future job applications, leadership positions, and even in everyday conversation. Now that you’re serious about conquering public speaking , the next step is knowing what to say. We’ve got your back on this one. Here’s a list of 60 interesting public speaking topics which promise to keep your audience engaged and eager to hear what you have to say. Customize them however you please, add more information and ideas of your own, and let your ideas do the talking! Let’s get going!

Interesting Public Speaking Topics

Public speaking provides a unique opportunity for speakers to share their opinions, experiences, and knowledge in an interesting way. Interesting public speaking topics can range from controversial to informative, from historical to present day, from fun to serious. When selecting a topic , it’s important to consider the interests of your audience as well as what you can provide appropriate supporting information on. Controversial or opinion-based topics can be engaging, but it’s important that all sides of the argument are presented fairly and no one in the audience is disparaged or excluded. Additionally, providing both sides of an argument here helps inform your audience and may even expose them to different perspectives. Informative topics are great for teaching audiences about specific subjects or movements, while delivering the information in an entertaining and interesting way. Explain how each piece fits into the bigger picture and build suspense throughout your talk. Additionally, if you have personal stories associated with the topic, by all means include them; these stories help make your presentation more memorable and engaging for your audience. Historical topics provide excellent fodder for a public speaking engagement; beyond teaching about specific events that occurred in our past, you can also shed light on important dates in history or major events of the past century. Providing context helps bring to life lessons from those points in time that still influence us today. Current events are also great platforms for public speaking – highlighting what is happening now provides a powerful connection between speaker and audience as everyone is probably equally (or almost equally) knowledgeable about it—and if not? You get to teach them! When presenting current events as your topic, make sure you use up-to-date sources and highlight any compliance changes or other political matters that could affect your audience directly. Now let’s move on to discuss current events as an interesting public speaking topic…

Current Events

When it comes to public speaking, current events make for a highly engaging topics. Depending on the agenda and purpose of the speech, current events can be used either to inform and educate the audience or to galvanize support and motivate action. When dealing with current events, speakers should strive to remain impartial while bringing forth both sides of the argument. For example, if the event is to discuss international trade policy in light of recent tariffs disputes between major trading partners, speakers should present both advantages and disadvantages of increased tariffs. Understanding the core issue at hand without commenting on the efficacy of each side’s policies is key in order to maintain an impartial outlook. Similarly, when addressing a complex social issue like discrimination against minority groups or income equality, it is important to provide a sober and nuanced overview of the issue while ensuring that all sides are properly represented. Naturally, as certain issues become particularly salient in the public debate , more detailed analysis may be necessary in order to provide a full account of the situation. With that said, presenters must always exercise caution when discussing hot-button topics so as not to alienate any portion of their audience. Finally, speakers may choose to conclude their discussion by proposing a plan for action or connecting their topic with wider implications for society. As such, choosing current events as one’s topic allows for an opportunity to create real change that can have tangible benefits for members of their audience. With this potential impact in mind, let us now explore creative ideas that are just as interesting but offer a different approach.

10 Current Events Topics

COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on society, economy, and healthcare systems
Climate change and environmental issues, including wildfires, hurricanes, and rising sea levels
Global politics and international relations, including tensions between countries and geopolitical conflicts
Technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence, automation, and the future of work
Social justice movements, including Black Lives Matter and #MeToo, and their impact on society
Mental health and wellbeing, including the effects of the pandemic on mental health and access to mental health services
Education and the challenges of remote learning and hybrid learning models
Immigration and refugee crises, including the global response and the impact on individuals and communities
Economic inequality and the wealth gap, including the effects of the pandemic on job losses and income disparities
The role of media and technology in shaping public opinion and discourse, including issues of censorship and misinformation.

Fun Public Speaking Topics

Public speaking can be an incredibly effective method of communication and expressing ideas to an audience. When selecting a topic for a public speaking event, it is important to choose one that will be engaging, exciting and entertaining . Fun public speaking topics are a great way to captivate your audience’s attention. Some fun topics popular today include conspiracy theories, humorous anecdotes and weird trivia questions. In addition to topics that can evoke laughter, you could opt for a conversation-like approach by selecting topics tailored towards discussing or debating current events or pop culture trends. This type of discussion creates a sense of involvement amongst your listeners, as they are likely to have their own opinions on the subject matter at hand. Knowing the interests of your audience makes it easier to pick one of these types of interesting conversation starters. Yet another type of enjoyable public speaking topic is one related to personal experience. By sharing stories from your own life you can create a connection with your audience because they realize you are not only knowledgeable about academic subjects but also about human experiences. For example, you could talk about how traveling abroad changed your perspective or how volunteer work with animals opened up new opportunities in your life. No matter what route you take, having a fun element in each speech encourages conversations , making it more engaging for the listener.

Here are 10 fun topics for public speaking:

The science of laughter and how it can improve mental and physical health
The history of popular board games and how they have evolved over time
The art of cake decorating and how to create beautiful and delicious desserts
The world of cosplay and the art of creating intricate costumes
The benefits of travel and tips for planning the perfect vacation
The world of online gaming and the rise of esports
The history of memes and how they have impacted popular culture
The art of mixology and how to make creative cocktails at home
The joys and challenges of pet ownership and the benefits of having a furry friend
The world of improv comedy and how to master the art of improvisation.

These fun public speaking topics spark imagination and interest from all those involved in the discussion. While brainstorming ideas, it is important to keep in mind that the topic should contain enough material to elaborate upon while maintaining a lighthearted spirit; balance is key!

Controversial Public Speaking Topics

Controversial public speaking topics can be excellent ways to engage your audience and spark a lively discussion. It is best to keep the language used respectful, as well as being mindful of the makeup of the audience you are presenting to. Popular controversial public speaking topics range from opinions about current events and politics, religion, gender roles and LGBTQ issues, amongst other things. When debating each side of the argument, it is important to make sure that one doesn’t invalidate or insult the opposing views.

Here are 10 controversial public speaking topics:

Gun control and the right to bear arms
Abortion and reproductive rights
Capital punishment and the death penalty
Immigration policy and border control
Affirmative action and equal opportunity employment
LGBTQ+ rights and marriage equality
The legalization of marijuana and other drugs
Animal rights and animal testing
Freedom of speech and hate speech laws
Climate change and the role of humans in causing and combating it.

No matter which topic you decide to explore, controversial public speaking topics provide a great opportunity for learning experiences. With great research beforehand, ambitious speakers can use these occasions to inform their audiences in meaningful ways. Moving on to the next section, motivational public speaking topics have become increasingly popular within the last several years. This type of speech aims to inspire its audience by inciting positive feelings and emotions while promoting an inspiring idea or action plan.

Key Points to Remember

Controversial public speaking topics can be engaging to an audience, but the language used should remain respectful regardless of opinions held. Popular topics include current events, politics, religion, gender roles, and LGBTQ issues. When debating both sides of a controversial argument, it is important not to insult or invalidate another viewpoint. Controversial public speaking gives speakers a great opportunity to enhance learning experiences with thorough research and information .

Motivational Public Speaking Topics

Motivation is a powerful tool that can influence and inspire people to realize their potential and reach unseen levels of success. When applied effectively, motivational public speaking topics can be incredibly impactful and help an audience take action on ideas they can implement in their daily life. The key to delivering an effective motivational talk is to focus on the idea of progress. Talk about how something good can be accomplished over time if dedication and hard work are continually applied. Present stories of real-life successes, as well as struggles, to illustrate these points and increase the audience’s engagement level. Make sure to inject positive energy into your speech by outlining strategies the audience can use to stay motivated while achieving their goals. By presenting topics in a motivational manner, you can help ensure that members of your audience feel encouraged, empowered, and inspired. If you are debating a controversial topic, make sure to present both sides of the argument within the same motivating framework.

Here are 10 motivational public speaking topics:

Overcoming obstacles and achieving success
Finding purpose and meaning in life
Building self-confidence and self-esteem
The power of perseverance and determination
Mindfulness and living in the present moment
Overcoming fear and taking risks
The importance of setting and achieving goals
Turning setbacks into opportunities for growth
Developing a positive mindset and attitude
The benefits of gratitude and appreciation in life.

Keeping these important principles in mind will allow you to deliver a compelling motivational presentation that helps your audience believe in themselves and develop clear directions for taking action. Taking the right steps today will bring better results tomorrow — this is a concept worth discussing during your talk.

Historical Topics for Public Speaking

History is a rich and complex tapestry of events, ideas, and movements that have shaped the world we live in today. Exploring historical topics can help us gain a deeper understanding of our collective past, and shed light on the challenges and triumphs of human experience. From the fall of the Roman Empire to the Civil Rights Movement, there are countless historical topics that continue to fascinate and inspire us. In this list, we explore ten historical topics that offer a glimpse into the great events and movements that have shaped our world.

Here are 10 historical topics to talk about:

The fall of the Roman Empire and its impact on European civilization
The French Revolution and the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte
The Industrial Revolution and its impact on society, economy, and technology
The American Revolution and the birth of the United States of America
The Renaissance and its impact on art, science, and culture
The colonization of the Americas and the impact on indigenous populations
The World Wars and their impact on global politics and international relations
The Age of Exploration and the impact of European colonization on the world
The Civil Rights Movement and the fight for racial equality in the United States
The Cold War and the global tension between the United States and the Soviet Union.

Persuasive Speech Topics

Persuasive speeches are designed to convince the audience to take a particular action, adopt a certain viewpoint, or support a specific idea. These speeches can be powerful tools for effecting change and promoting important causes. From protecting the environment to advocating for social justice, persuasive speech topics cover a wide range of issues that are relevant to our world today. In this list, we explore ten persuasive speech topics that can inspire and motivate audiences to take action and make a positive impact on the world around us.

Here are 10 persuasive speech topics:

The importance of recycling and reducing waste to protect the environment
The benefits of meditation and mindfulness for mental health and well-being
The need for stricter gun control laws to reduce gun violence
The importance of early childhood education for future success
The benefits of a plant-based diet for health and the environment
The need to address income inequality through progressive taxation
The importance of access to affordable healthcare for all individuals
The need for comprehensive sex education in schools
The benefits of renewable energy sources for a sustainable future
The need for increased support for mental health resources and services

Public speaking is not always an easy task. Whether you are presenting a persuasive or informative speech, it can be difficult to keep your audience interested and engaged. In order to do this, it is essential to choose the appropriate public speaking topics. The fifty-plus interesting public speakings topics suggested in this article can provide plenty of inspiration and help you deliver a powerful message to your audience. Whether you take a light-hearted approach or focus on a more serious subject matter, picking the right public speaking topics can make all the difference. Larger philosophical questions may prove intimidating and impractical as public speaking topics, while trivial conversation starters may bore your audience before they even start listening. To get the most out of your speeches, it is important to pick a topic that walks the line between engaging your listeners without making them uncomfortable or unsure of how to respond. It is also imperative that you develop solid argumentation and presentation skills if you want to succeed in public speaking. An entertaining speech must still provide solid facts and evidence while at the same time grabbing the attention of your listeners. A good balance between interesting content and persuasive rhetoric should help make any speech successful.

Responses to Frequently Asked Questions

What are some creative public speaking topics.

Creative public speaking topics can range from the exploration of current trends, to unique takes on traditional topics. For example, if discussing the current state of education, one could focus on the trend of more expensive tuition for higher education and dive into the implications this has for students and the job market, or discuss emergent strategies for providing greater access to educational opportunities in economically disadvantaged areas. Additionally, one could explore the current technology landscape and how it will shape future generations, or investigate developments in artificial intelligence that are redefining our understanding of what “intelligence” means. One could also take a more artful approach to public speaking and open up a dialogue about the power of creativity in solving problems or elicit discussion around empathy as a form of communication. Ultimately, creative public speaking topics are limited only by creative thought and provide an exciting opportunity for speakers to present inspiring ideas in entertaining ways.

What are some tips for choosing public speaking topics?

Some tips for choosing public speaking topics include: 1. Choose topics that are relevant to your audience. Make sure the topic is of interest to them and will keep their attention. 2. Research the topic thoroughly before speaking. Knowing the subject matter well will make it easier to engage your audience. 3. Select a topic that is both challenging and interesting. While choosing a subject that people might be familiar with can be safe, make sure it is still engaging and stimulating. 4. Avoid topics that are too controversial or sensitive. Refrain from such topics as they could lead to arguments or displeasing reactions amongst the audience members. 5. Expand on popular material but don’t plagiarize other speakers’ ideas. People like new concepts and appreciate hearing new information so challenge yourself to come up with something original!

Clarify. Simplify. Multiply.

215 Persuasive Speech Topics to Elevate Your Talk

Persuasive speech topics are the heartbeat of every compelling presentation. They’re the first sparks that ignite the flames of passion, belief, and action in your audience.

The right topic ensures your voice doesn’t just add to the noise, but pierces through it, making a lasting impact.

But not all topics are created equal. Some have the magic to captivate, to make listeners lean in, eager for your every word. Others might fall flat, no matter how eloquently you present them.

Selecting the perfect topic isn’t just a step in the process—it’s the foundation.

As we venture into a curated list of 150 powerful topics today, remember that your choice has the potential to change perspectives, inspire action, and even transform lives.

What is a persuasive speech?

A persuasive speech is a type of discourse aimed at influencing the beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors of an audience by presenting compelling arguments and evidence. It seeks to convince listeners to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action.

Why Choose Persuasive Speech Topics

When crafting a speech to persuade, selecting the appropriate topic is not just the first step but the most crucial one. It’s the foundation upon which the entire structure of your argument is built. Here’s why:

Audience Connection . The right topic resonates with your audience. It speaks to their interests, concerns, or desires. A topic that aligns with their values or challenges their beliefs will hold their attention more effectively.

Credibility and Authenticity . Choosing a topic you are passionate and knowledgeable about establishes your credibility. An authentic voice, backed by facts and genuine concern, is more persuasive than mere rhetoric.

Structured Arguments . A well-chosen topic lends itself to clear, organized arguments. It allows for a logical progression of ideas, ensuring your speech is coherent and compelling from start to finish.

Memorability . The best speeches leave a lasting impression. When you choose a topic that’s timely, relevant, or thought-provoking, your audience is more likely to remember your message long after the applause.

Effective Call to Action . Your end goal is to persuade your audience to act or think differently. A clear, relatable topic sets the stage for a powerful call to action, motivating your listeners to respond with enthusiasm.

The topic is the soul of your speech to persuade. A well-chosen topic not only captivates your audience but also strengthens the impact and longevity of your message.

How to Choose Persuasive Speech Topics

Embarking on the journey of delivering a speech to persuade? It all begins with choosing the perfect topic. But how do you sift through countless ideas to find that golden nugget? Here’s a guide:

Know Your Audience , Understanding who you’re speaking to is paramount. Consider their age, background, interests, and values. A topic that resonates with one group might fall flat with another. Tailor your choice to captivate your listeners.

Passion and Knowledge . Choose a topic you’re passionate about and have knowledge on. Your enthusiasm will shine through, making your speech more engaging. Plus, a deep understanding boosts your credibility.

Relevance and Timeliness . In a rapidly changing world, current issues capture attention. Whether it’s the latest technological advancement or a hot-button social issue, timeliness can make your speech instantly relevant.

Debatable and Thought-Provoking . A good persuasive speech topic has multiple facets and isn’t black and white. It should spark discussion, encouraging your audience to think and form opinions.

Feasibility of Research . Ensure that your chosen topic has enough resources and data available. Your arguments need to be backed by facts, statistics, and credible sources to strengthen your stance.

Ethical Considerations . Always approach potentially sensitive topics with care. Your aim should be to inform and persuade without causing unnecessary distress or offense.

Unique Perspective . While some topics might be popular, offering a fresh, unique perspective can set your speech apart. Consider angles that haven’t been explored extensively to offer a fresh take.

Selecting the right persuasive speech topic isn’t just about what’s popular or interesting. It’s about merging your passion with your audience’s interests, ensuring that your message not only informs but truly persuades.

The Persuasive Speaker Bootcamp

Get the Persuasive Speaker Bootcamp! 🎙️ Ever felt that tingling excitement when you hear a speaker captivate an audience? That could be you! Dive into the art of persuasive speaking with our bootcamp, tailored to transform you from a regular talker to a magnetic speaker. Engage, inspire, and lead with your words. Whether you’re gearing up for boardroom presentations or aspiring to take the stage, our bootcamp is your ticket to masterful communication. Your voice has power. Let’s unlock it together. Explore more and bring the Persuasive Speaker Bootcamp to your organization today.

Persuasive Speech Topics

Navigating the sea of potential speech topics can be challenging. But when it comes to persuasive speech topics, certain areas never fail to captivate and engage. Below are a few selected categories and accompanying topics, followed by strategies on how to effectively tackle them.

You can also find links to sample articles or speeches that address this topic.

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About the author.

Jef Menguin

Elevate Your Public Speaking Game.

Transform your public speaking skills with our immersive learning experience. Dive deep into interactive sessions, receive personalized feedback, and practice in a supportive environment. Elevate your confidence, clarity, and impact as a high-impact public speaker.

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BigSpeak™ Speakers Bureau: Motivational Speakers | Keynote Speakers | Business Speakers

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Informing and inspiring you with the latest news and views from the world’s top business speakers, CEOs, motivational speakers, celebrities, and leadership experts.

Mar 6, 2020

1. Motivation

We all need motivation from time to time to excel and reach our goals. Nothing motivates us more than stories from company founders, championship athletes, and extraordinary individuals who have overcome setbacks and adversity to reach their goals.

2. Innovation

One question all companies want answered is “How do we come up with great ideas?” If you want to know how to innovate, then successful startup CEOs, creative artists, and innovation researchers can provide insights on how to construct teams and reframe problems to find new solutions.

3. Leadership

All companies need great leadership, but how do you create great leaders? Companies want to hear leadership tips from former CEOs, company founders, and top thought-leaders on how they can inspire their teams and empower their employees.

4. Team Building

Google found teams that work well together are more productive and creative. To find the secrets of great teamwork, businesses hear from top athletes, company founders, and former military leaders on how teams can better communicate and collaborate.

5. Storytelling

Why is storytelling such a hot business topic? Storytelling is at the heart of the human experience. Whether we are talking about our day, pitching a business to an investor, or communicating with a customer, we all use the framework of stories to inform people and move them to action.

6. Technology

It’s no surprise technology is on the mind of business leaders. Companies want to hear from engineers and futurists how their industry will be affected by developments in machine learning, robotics, artificial intelligence, and more.

7. Customer Experience

When we have a great experience, we want to repeat it, whether it’s going to Disneyland or buying a sandwich. Companies like Starbucks and Zappos found success by selling a common product (coffee and shoes) and giving a great experience. Now businesses want to know how to provide customers with a great experience (CEX) through every step of the customer journey in order to develop customer loyalty.

8. Resilience

The business world can be tough for employees and CEOs alike. We all fail more than we succeed. So companies learn how to bounce back from disaster and adversity with tips from championship athletes, CEOs of successful businesses, and bestselling authors on performance.

All companies want to sell more—but what’s the secret? Companies get tips from successful salespeople on how to establish rapport, build credibility, and ask questions to provide a customer solution that increases the bottom line

10. Cybersecurity

Every week brings news of a company that has been hacked. Organizations that want to protect their data learn from hackers and government officials on the cultural and technical changes necessary to keep information secure.

11. Emotional Intelligence

Businesses run on people. Emotional intelligence is key to getting along in relationships with your colleagues and your customers. Expert researchers show you how to communicate and empathize with co-workers and clients.

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The content writers at BigSpeak Speakers Bureau are Experts on the Experts. They hold doctoral, masters, and bachelors’ degrees in business, writing, literature, and education. Their business thought pieces are published regularly in leading business publications. Working in close association with the top business, entrepreneur, and motivational speakers, BigSpeak content writers are at the forefront of industry trends and research.

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Ideas for Informative Speech Topics for Business

Small Business
Setting Up a New Business
Business Ideas
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Being asked to give an informative speech for business can be both positive and negative. Your company gets visibility through any pre- and post-speech publicity efforts, and by actually presenting the speech to the selected audience. That's the positive, but the negative can present itself as a struggle to find an idea that interests the audience and promotes your business or expertise.

Tie in to Current News

Scan the headlines for events that fit your business or theme of your speech. Since the media has covered the event or news occurrence, you know it interests the general population. For example, if you offer security products, look for articles on identity theft, breaches of in-house security systems, the cost of lost information, or the possibility of litigation due to injuries.

Exclusive Research or Data

Data and information that is exclusive to your company provides the basis for an informative speech. Conduct a survey. Analyze the results and present conclusions based on the analysis as the basis for your speech. For example, if you assist small businesses with business planning, conduct a survey on what entrepreneurs feel are the major stumbling blocks to completing a business plan. If you don't have the experience with surveys or conducting research, hire a consulting firm to do it for you.

Success Stories

Just about everyone likes to hear a rags-to-riches story, success in the face of adversity, or overcoming physical challenges. For example, if you're in the publishing industry, you might talk about authors who had a difficult time getting their first book published. It's common knowledge that after J. K. Rowling had the idea for the Harry Potter series it took seven years to get from the idea to publication. Not everyone knows, though, that Dr. Seuss -- Theodor Seuss Geisel -- made the rounds of nearly 30 publishers before getting his first book published.

An Historical Perspective

Use your creativity in crafting a historical perspective for your speech. A technology company might trace the development of communication from utilizing visual signs -- flags, for example -- through the telegraph and telephone, right on up through the Internet and smartphones. A plumbing company could go back to ancient Rome as the basis for indoor plumbing. Other options include tying in the growth of your company with the growth of the city where it's located or with major historical milestones.

Books and Movies

The audience may identify with a popular or classic book or movie. Use that theme as the basis of your speech. If you're talking about professional ethics you might use the classic book "To Kill a Mocking Bird." If the subject is investing, then the movie "Wall Street" might be used to demonstrate the consequences of insider information.

Presentation Magazine: Informative Speech Topics

Katie Jensen's first book was published in 2000. Since then she has written additional books as well as screenplays, website content and e-books. Rosehill holds a Master of Business Administration from Arizona State University. Her articles specialize in business and personal finance. Her passion includes cooking, eating and writing about food.

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Good Persuasive Business Speech Topics

by Steve Milano

Published on 26 Sep 2017

During your time in the workplace, you might be asked to make an informational presentation, either internally or on behalf of your company at an industry function. To provide value to your listeners, persuade or convince your audience that you have information that can benefit them. Choosing from some common, broad-based themes will help you create a persuasive business speech that helps your listeners and raises your profile.

Importance of Team Building

Team building might sound like a “rah-rah” motivational subject, but you can tie it to concrete benefits that go beyond simple morale building. Persuade your audience that team-building activities can help improve productivity and efficiency by creating an environment where employees are more likely to come to each other with problems and make suggestions. Show how a department or an office working together can result in decreased absenteeism, turnover and staff replacement costs. Visit websites of credible academic, industry, psychological, military and corporate experts to gather statistics to support your argument.

The Importance of Customer Service

Customer service goes beyond simply handling returns or complaints and can have a direct impact on a company’s bottom line. Customer loyalty and satisfaction are subjective concepts. Increased referrals, repeat purchasing, decreased returns, fewer bad online reviews and less need to spend on new customer acquisition are all tangible benefits of a customer service program. Before you tell your audience how to improve customer service, persuade them to invest in such a program by showing them the measurable benefits. Teach businesspeople who work with the public how to listen more effectively to avoid miscommunication, recommends seminar speaker Dave Oakes. Points to cover can also include making a good first impression, dealing with angry customers and how to tell tactfully tell a customer no.

Supply Chain Management

One person or department is usually in charge of a company’s supply chain management efforts, but most employees are part of the supply chain. A business is only as strong as its weakest link , so persuading management and staff of the importance of a strategic supply chain management plan has relevance to everyone. In addition to explaining what supply chain management is, show how a problem in any department can stop the chain dead in its tracks. Give an example from each department showing how a problem there can cause a bottleneck. This will help you convince everyone they have a stake in the supply chain.

Employee Retention

Many small businesses focus on hiring the right people but may not do enough to keep employees long term. Persuade an audience of the importance of creating an employee-retention program by showing the expenses related to staff turnover. These can include recruiting costs, relocation expenses, signing bonuses and lost productivity during a transition. Find industry statistics from a reputable human resources organization or other source that show the cost of replacing an employee . Discuss the importance of succession planning to let staff members know their potential future at a company.

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45 Impromptu Speech Topics and Ideas

October 29, 2017 - Dom Barnard

Impromptu speeches are a great way to practice quick thinking and concise speaking – you usually have only a couple of minutes to prepare a speech lasting around five minutes. Even in this shorter form of speech, you still need to have a structure to what you are saying to ensure your message is understood by everyone.

If you struggle with lack of confidence, practicing with these impromptu speech topics can be a great way to build confidence for all types of speeches and conversations, whether you’re talking to someone at a business networking event or speaking at a wedding.

What is an impromptu speech?

For an impromptu speech, you’ll generally have 1-3 minutes of preparation for a speech lasting 5-8 minutes. Tougher speech events can reduce this preparation time down to 30 seconds and require you to plan your speech mentally, without any paper to write notes on.

Impromptu speech often used at Oxford University debates

Impromptu speeches are often given as part of university and college debates. Oxford Union event shown above.

These types of speeches are usually found in public speaking courses, speaking organisations such as Toastmasters and debating competitions (both professional and student based).

They are a great way of testing a range of communication skills, from organisation to clarity to creativity, and are becoming a popular way to practice general public speaking skills.

Practice Impromptu Speaking

Practice your impromptu speaking skills by talking about a series of random slides for 30 seconds each. Receive feedback on your performance. Learn More

Tips for picking an impromptu speech topic

Here are some quick tips and considerations for picking an impromptu speech.

Pick a topic you are familiar with, have knowledge of and want to talk about. Personal experience on that topic is a bonus as you’ll be able to speak more naturally about it.
Your organisational skills will be tested to come up with a powerful introduction and conclusion in your preparation to back up your argument.
Pick a topic where the scope is limited (or you can easily limit it) as you’ll only have 5 minutes to discuss it.
Your goal is to either inform or persuade your audience so choose a topic that suits these criteria

Impromptu speech topics

There are a huge amount of topic to choose from so we’ve compiled a short list of interesting topics below, some of which will hopefully inspire you or give you talking points you hadn’t previously considered.

A non-biased news site is impossible
The Romain Empire was the most important empire to have existed
Keyboards will be replaced by speech-to-text technology in 10 years
Performance enhancing drugs should be allowed in sport
Colour affects the way people feel
Poor health begins in the mind
Team sports build strong individuals
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder
Poverty is a state of mind
What characteristics make an ideal villain?
How would you describe an average person?
In what situation is lying a good idea?
Who has been the most influential person in your life and why?
Pets are for people who don’t have children
Real learning doesn’t occur in a classroom
It is better to be influential than rich
Do violent video games contribute to youth violence?
School uniforms removes individuality
Children should not watch television
Art is not important to the future of the human race
Future conflicts will be confined to online hacking
Social customs are a waste of time
My biggest concern for the future is…
Climate change is a natural occurrence
What is the most important skill for starting a business
Space exploration advances the human race
Parents are the most influential factors in our lives
Sports people salaries are justified by viewing figures
Reading fiction is a waste of time
Going to university / college is not necessary anymore
Facebook makes society less happy
Anyone can be a millionaire if they work hard enough
No extra-terrestrial species have found us because…
Translation technology will replace the need to learn a language
Colonizing Mars is necessary to ensure human survival
Presidential / Prime Ministers time in office should be lengthened
Social circles and friends are the most important factors for happiness
Real wealth is not measured in money or possessions
The minimum wage should be doubled
Should adults have the right to carry a concealed handgun?
Is sexual orientation determined at birth?
Junk food’s popularity relies on marketing
Both snooker and darts are sports
Being a vegetarian is healthier than eating meat
Renting a house is better than buying

Use any of these topics for your next impromptu speech or just as personal practice to improve your communication skills.

Speech on Business World

Navigating the business world can feel like exploring an intricate maze. It’s brimming with challenges, opportunities, and constant evolution. Your understanding of it can shape your success.

Think of it as a game of chess, where strategic moves matter. You need to know the rules, the pieces, and how they interact. It’s a fascinating journey, wouldn’t you agree?

1-minute Speech on Business World

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Business is like a giant wheel that keeps our world turning. It’s like a big game of trading cards where you swap what you have for something you need. And the goal? To make sure everyone gets what they want and needs.

Let’s imagine a world without business. It’s like a birthday party without cake, or a football game without a ball. We wouldn’t have the clothes we wear, the food we eat, or the toys we play with. That’s how important businesses are!

Now, let’s talk about the people in business. They are like the captains of ships, steering their businesses through calm and stormy weather. They make tough decisions, solve problems, and always look for new ways to make their products better and cheaper.

But businesses don’t just make things or sell things. They also give us jobs. They are like the big engines that keep our towns and cities running. When businesses do well, they hire more people, and when they hire more people, there are more jobs for everyone.

Businesses also help us learn and grow. They invest in new ideas and innovations. They are like the big trees in a forest, providing shade and shelter for new, smaller plants to grow.

In conclusion, the business world is a bustling marketplace of ideas, goods, and services. It’s a world that keeps us moving forward, creating new opportunities and better futures for all of us. So, let’s celebrate the business world, for it is the heart of our society, pumping life into every corner of our world.

2-minute Speech on Business World

Business is the engine that drives the world. It’s like a big machine with many parts. Each part has a job to do. Some parts make things, like toys or clothes. Other parts sell those things in stores. Still, others move those things from one place to another. All these parts must work together so the machine can do its job.

Imagine a world without business. There would be no shops to buy food or clothes. There would be no factories to make phones or cars. There would be no trucks to bring things from faraway places. Life would be very different, and not in a good way. So, you see, business is very important.

Businesses also give people jobs. When you grow up, you might work for a business. You could be a doctor, a teacher, or a firefighter. Or, you might start your own business. You could open a restaurant, a shop, or even a farm. Whatever you do, you will be a part of the business world.

Now, business is not just about making money. It’s also about helping people. Businesses make things we all need, like food and clothes. They provide services we all use, like healthcare and education. And they solve problems that make our lives better. For example, some businesses are finding ways to clean our air and water. Others are creating new medicines to keep us healthy.

But running a business is hard work. It’s like a game of chess. You must think ahead and make smart moves. You must take risks, but not too many. You must work well with others and treat them fairly. And you must never give up, even when things get tough.

In the end, business is about more than just money. It’s about creating value. It’s about making the world a better place. And it’s about giving people the chance to do what they love.

So, remember, business is not just for grown-ups. It’s for everyone. Even kids can start their own business. You could start a lemonade stand, a dog-walking service, or even a YouTube channel. The possibilities are endless.

And who knows? Maybe one day, you will be the one running a big business. You could be the one creating jobs and solving problems. You could be the one making the world a better place.

So, let’s celebrate the business world. Let’s appreciate the hard work and creativity it takes to run a business. And let’s encourage everyone, young and old, to be a part of it. Because, in the end, we are all part of the business world.

Speech on Bullying
Speech on Buddha
Speech on Importance Of Child Rights

We also have speeches on more interesting topics that you may want to explore.

Powerful 2 Minute Speech Topics: A-Z Guide (With 200+ Examples)

Hrideep barot.

Public Speaking , Speech Topics , Speech Writing

It is often believed that giving a 2-Minute Speech is the most challenging form of public speaking because of the time constraint. But here I am to tell you that there is something even more challenging than giving a 2-minute speech. And that is finding a powerful 2-minute speech topic !

2-minute speeches are short, crisp ways to present your opinion, understanding, or study to others. It is short. It is simple. And it is convenient, especially from the listener’s point of view.

To know more about 2-minute speeches, check out this short video below:

Here is what you can expect from this blog:

What is a 2-minute speech.

How do you find a 2-minute speech topic?
2-minute speech topics

How to make a 2-minute speech script?

2-minute speeches to memorize, delivering 2-minute speeches.

2-minute speeches are short and crisp speeches of about 260-350 words.

Because 2-minute speeches are short, you can be assured of having constant attention from your audience. This means that you might have to come up with a 2-minute speech topic that is not only informative and interesting but one that stands out and makes the audience want to listen to it immediately.

So how do you find a 2-minute speech topic?

There are 2 ways you can find a 2-minute speech topic that would suit perfectly for your next speech.

First is when you go about doing your research and then ideating or selecting a topic that is more in line with your purpose of giving the speech.

The second and the most popular way to find a 2-minute speech topic is to go on to google and type 2-minute speech topics. You shouldn’t be shocked at the number of topics the internet has to offer to you. You might not even have to go anywhere else, jump on to the speech topics section if you want to get straight into selecting a 2-minute speech topic for yourself.

Researching for your 2-minute speech topic

So, you chose not to select one of the many topics available on the internet? That’s great! Want to know why?

1. It would help you come up with a topic that is more personalized and less common.

When you come up with the topic yourself, you move from the very broad topics available online and can find a topic that caters more to your area of interest or understanding.

2. You would be able to narrow down on a topic of your choice or area of interest.

3. it would help you gain an understanding of the topic from various points of view.

In the initial ideation stage, as you try to research the topic and find a topic for your 2-minute speech, you would be exposed to various political, environmental, or social perspectives of the same topic which would further help you to not only narrow down your topic but also understand your topic from various points of view, thus helping you ace a question-and-answer round.

Process of Finding a topic

Before beginning straight up by researching your topic, there are a couple of things that you might have to take a look into which will help you navigate through the next step (that is researching for your topic). These include:

1. Understanding the event for which you’d be giving the speech

Understanding the event or occasion where you will be giving the speech is important as it would give you a brief idea of what is expected in terms of the content and tone of your speech .

So, for instance, if you are giving a speech at a conference, it would have a more formal tonality to it as compared to a speech that you might present at your best friend’s wedding which would usually be filled with a lot of slang, humor, and casual tone.

2. Understanding your audience

The next thing you should try to find a little more clarity on is your possible audience. Understanding who the majority of your audience will comprise will help you in finding a topic that would be more in line with their broad interest, thus attracting them to listen to your speech right from the very beginning .

3. Your interests and knowledge

Yet another thing that you must take into consideration besides what the event and audience expect from you is your interest in the topic. Having a tad bit of understanding of the speech topic you would want to dive into can also help you in navigating through your research better.

4. Your purpose for giving the speech

Establish your purpose for giving the speech even before you start researching. The reason is very simple, you’d be able to understand which kind of a topic you should focus on depending on the purpose of your speech.

Do you plan on providing the audience with detailed information on the topic? Or are you trying to sell your view or product to the audience within these 2 minutes?

In both cases, your topic, as well as the structure of speech, would be very different.

Once you have an idea of your audience, your interests, and your knowledge areas, you can then move on to researching your topic.

A simple google search can be a good starting point.

Take the help of news articles, journals, blogs, and much more to narrow down and come up with a 2-minute speech topic that you feel most excited about!

Selecting a 2-minute speech topic from the internet

A-z list of 2-minute speech topics, find some of the best 2-minute speech topics here:.

Abortion: Should the government have a say in it?
Art: A mode of storytelling
A day in the life of a (add your profession, organization, or ethnicity)
Artificial intelligence: a boon or a curse?
Art and Craft: a lost activity
Benefits of Yoga
Benefits of meditation
Ban on Animal testing
Bullying and how to discourage it
Buildings and Aesthetics: An architectural standpoint
Chronic Depression and its cure
Cults: The secrets you know nothing about
Cultural difference: The harsh reality of moving abroad
Corruption: the hidden dirt
Cricket: sport turned into a religion
Climate Change
Disaster Management
Domino effect in real life
Demonetization in India
Dance therapy and its uses
Dealing with daily hassles of life
Environmental pollution and its adverse effects
Education system of India
Election ethics and rules
Elocutions: Everything you need to know
Everything we know about aliens
FOMO (Fear of missing out) and how to deal with it
Falling in your dreams: the meaning behind it
Fat loss fads you must avoid
Fitness and influencing
Forced labor: An unfortunate reality
Girl Education: The inspiring story of Malala
Generation gap and how it affects communication
Gender sensitization and ways of being more aware of it
Growing a terrace garden
Gaining muscles: everything you need to know
Health and Hygiene: Two underrated
Hacks to do well in your academics
Habits that are ruining your health
Hollywood: An insight into the world of glamour
Hitchhiking your way to find peace
Importance of reading
Importance of following a routine
Importance of kindness
Importance of education
Importance of sports
The language barrier and how to overcome it
Loyalty: An endangered quality?
Land Pollution and ways to deal with it
Less is more: All about Minimalism
Legalization of marijuana: An opinion
Moral Policing: is it ethical?
Memorizing speeches and their disadvantages
Making friends as adults
Manifestation: A belief or a joke?
Millennials: generation of environmental advocates
Mental health
Music and its power to heal
Media and its effects on forming opinions
My role models
Noise pollution
National integration
Natural resources: A tragedy of depleting future
Negating minorities and their impact on the overall development of the country
Natural disasters: Can we tackle them?
Online dating and its effects on self-esteem
Online education and its authenticity
Overcoming fear through exposure therapy
Olympics 2021
Organ donation: Progress made so far
Our Environment, our responsibility
Pros and cons of being a vegetarian
Political ideologies that shook the world
Poor scores and their effect on the success
Parenting styles over the years
Paternal leaves in Indian organizations
Poverty in India
Positive thinking and gratitude
Punctuality: Through the eyes of different cultures
Quarantine and increase in social anxiety among people
Qualifying for Olympics: Struggle unspoken of
Quran and its teachings
Questionnaire: The best way of collecting data?
Questioning and its importance in the workspace
Racism: An unfortunate view in the society
Right to education
Religion vs Spirituality
Reasons why failure is important
The reality of fast-food brands
Should body-shaming be a punishable offense?
Sneaker trends that would blow your mind
Sustainable fashion brands to follow
Shaping perspectives through conformity
Time management: A necessary corporate skill
Travel and tourism: A Course
Technology and its growing importance in everyday life
Tourism in India
The best day of my life
Unity: A quality that formed countries
Unity in Diversity in India
Unemployment and its impact on the mental health of the youth
Understanding climate change
Understanding the importance of compounding
Value of Education
Value of Hard work
Value of Discipline
Videogames and their influence on violent behavior
Viral: A trend or a tragic accident?
Which is better: Studying in the country or moving abroad?
What does sustainability mean?
What is the Bermuda triangle?
Water pollution and its solutions
Waste management around the world
World peace: An idea that is achievable or too far-fetched?
Xenotransplantation: Future of organ transplantation
Xerox: A brand or name for photocopy
Xbox and its evolution over the years
X-rays and how it harms the human body

2-minute speech topics for students

What are the best topics for students.

If you have asked yourself this question but haven’t received an answer yet, check out the list below to find one now!

Opinion on the New education policy
Need for sex education in schools
Overcoming the problem of Brain Drain
Addressing the issue of child labor
Pros and cons of online degrees
Boarding school vs full-time schools
Co-ed school vs gender-specific schools
Liberty to choose your subjects in schools
Ban on uniforms
Curbing school shootings
Grading system: Changes required.
Peer pressure and the need to fit in
Coping with academic stress
Are scores a good measure of student’s intelligence?
Importance of focusing on extracurricular activities

2-minute speech topics for MBA students

Advantages of cloud kitchens
Importance of understanding the market
Best marketing strategy
Hard work vs smart work
The rise of entrepreneurship in India
Importance of internships in skills building
Reservation system: My honest pinion
Pros and cons of working from home
Everything about GST you don’t know of
Stocks or Cryptocurrencies?
Using reels to market products
Understanding the importance of influencer marketing
Assessing job satisfaction among employees
Biggest banking frauds in the world
How movies influence fashion trends
The insane E-commerce discounts
Women in Business
Why age is just a number when it comes to entrepreneurship
Management lessons from mythology
Make in India or Make for India?

Speech topics for adults

Are first impressions really the most lasting impressions?
Importance of observing in everyday life
Conforming vs standing out: What should you prefer?
Impact of positive thinking in healing chronic diseases
Importance of body language in public speaking
Is buying luxury goods on a loan worth it?
Why renting a house is better than buying it
Why timetables never work
How do colors affect the way we feel?
How your brains are wired to think negatively
Impact of childhood trauma on antisocial behaviors
Love: Difference between what is real and reel
Why being young is overrated
Are you a victim of the fashion industry?
How to easily start a conversation
Savings in college could help you in your 40s
Being happy all the time is an unachievable reality
The advantages of taking calculated risks
Dealing with stress on a daily basis
How do you overcome obstacles?

2-minute speech topics for the Interview

Understanding the future of the metaverse
Hard work leads to smart work
Effect of job satisfaction on life satisfaction
How to motivate the employees in no time
Gender Equality in the Workplace
How to get over stage fright?
How to give a speech in an interview?
How organizational culture affects motivation?
Management strategies that can help in improving productivity
Ways to essentially decrease production costs

Funny 2-minute speech topics

Why I would rather go to jail than clean utensils
If I could live my cat’s life for a day
The most profitable mistake I ever made
Tutorial on how to deny reality
Tips on walking your dog
Why you must never eat fish food
Things you can do to irritate someone
Evolution of my new year’s resolutions
Adulting and falling in love with the idea of arranged marriages
Dating in 2022

2-minute speech topics on any proverb

Beauty lies in the eye of the beholder
Actions speak louder than words
Health is wealth
Joy of giving
Don’t judge a book by its cover
Knowledge is power
Laughter is the best medicine
Action speaks louder than words.
A jack of all trades is a master of none.
A good listener is a silent flatterer.
All that glitters is not gold.
Among the blind, the one-eyed man is the king.
An idle brain is the devil’s workshop.
As you sow, so you shall reap.
What goes around comes back around.
Curiosity killed the cat.
Time is money.

Unique speech topics

The tragedy of not being on social media
Importance of taking a drop year
Are scholarships always fair?
Reasons teenagers start substance abuse
Places on earth no man has ever been
The most surveillance city in the world
Why euthanasia is justified
Formal schooling is important despite not being practical
If the earth stopped rotating for a split second
Benefits of boiling water

2-minute speech topics on famous personalities

Mahatma Gandhi
William Shakespeare
Rabindranath Tagore
Nelson Mandela
Barack Obama
A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
Virat Kohli
Jawaharlal Nehru
Winston Churchill
Abraham Lincoln

Once you have decided on your topic for the speech, the next step is to come up with the speech itself or the script.

For this, you’ll have to understand the approx number of words you will be comfortable adding to your speech so as to not exceed the time limit of 2-minutes.

Next, you can go about the usual “ introduction, main body, and conclusion ” structure for structuring your script.

It isn’t necessary for you to frame the entire speech word for word, you can also frame it in a pointer format if that is more convenient for you.

How do you start a 2-minute speech?

As there isn’t much time in your hand, presenting detailed opening lines for a 2-minute speech would mean that you would have to cut down on your main content.

Instead, you can start by giving a very quick introduction like “Hi I am Nisha and I will be talking about the adverse effects of sleep deprivation today with you.”

You can also use other more fun and engaging ways to begin your speech and there are tons of ways you can do it. Check out the list below to find examples of a few:

1. Rhetorical questions

Rhetorical questions are questions wherein you want to provoke the audience to think and not to come up with any specific answer . An example of the same is given below.

So from a glance, do I look like marriage material? Nina Donovan

Jokes and humor are almost always appreciated by the audience provided it isn’t even slightly derogatory or demeaning to anyone. Opening your 2-minute speech with a joke can in fact be a good attention grabber that would also not take up a lot of your speech time .

Example of a joke used as an opening line:

Do you know when brown kids get slapped? Every brown birthday party. Hasan Minhaj

3. Statistics or figures

What is the best way to make someone understand the reality of any situation you ask? Figures, numbers, or stats!

Because when the audience sees the number in front of them, they can no longer be in denial or in their own world of assumptions. Hence, using statistics in your opening lines would definitely help you reach your goal of spreading awareness (if that is what your purpose is).

Suicide happens to be one of the leading causes of death in United states with approximately one indivdiual dying to suicide every 11 minutes. The question is why are we still overlooking this grave issue?

To know more about effective opening lines, check out our post on 50 speech opening lines .

Following your brief introduction, as you dive into your topic, there are a couple of things that you must keep in your mind, they are:

Stick to only one takeaway . Having many takeaways might not help you effectively reach the audience.
Try to add short stories only if you plan on adding a story to your speech. Make sure that it isn’t taking up a huge chunk of your speech time.

How do you end your 2-minute speech?

In short speeches, your ending or conclusion is very important. It needs to be impactful. You can either summarize your speech in a couple of seconds or you can re-establish your takeaway at this point in your speech. You can try to end with a powerful quote or try to motivate your audience to take some action .

An example of asking the audience to take an action is,

“So as we reach the end of the speech on effects of sleep deprivation, I’d want you to go back home and think to yourself, is browsing for a couple of more minutes really necessary over your precious sleep?”

To take a deeper look into the closing lines for your speech, check out our video below!

2-minute speech on Brain Drain

Sundar Pichai, Satya Nadela, Leena Nair, and Paraag Agarwal what do they all have in common?

You probably guessed it right! They are the CEOs of some of the biggest companies in the world but there is yet another commonality that they have. They are all Indian Origin CEOs who gained their initial education from some of the top colleges in India to hold such exceptional positions in world-renowned companies now.

If this isn’t a good example of brain drain, I’m not sure what is. Brain drains, a concept that is very common to Indians when we lose some of the smartest people of our country to better opportunities abroad. These companies not only offer the individuals with better work ethos and environment but also provide them with a handsome paycheck and add to that the amount of appreciation they receive for the work they chip in. Something that is either too rare or alien to the Indian work environment.

But the scenario in India is changing. With the coming of start-up culture in India where the employees are given just as much priority as the company’s clients If the companies encourage such open and collaborative culture where there is a fair opportunity for growth provided to all the employees, we might be able to see some considerable fall in the problem of brain drain in India.

Importance of education 2-minute speech

Do you remember how in school they asked us to prove whether the two figures were triangles when you could easily have concluded that they indeed were triangles just by looking at them?

So then why do we say that education is important?

For starters, to be able to live a decent life, the basic requirement for any job is for you to possess at least a diploma or degree. Apart from the theoretical learning that we get through education, there are plenty of other skills and experiences we are exposed to like broadening our perspective by interacting with peers, enhancing public speaking skills, understanding the basics of how the world functions are it the laws and rights that the individual possesses or the understanding of geographical division and economic conditions in the society. Education helps in enhancing the capacities, attitudes, interests, urges, and needs of the individual. And hence when the student or individual is deprived of education, it isn’t just the theoretical knowledge that they miss out on but they also miss out on having a holistic development of themselves. This is what makes education very important in everyone’s life.

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Final Words

2-minute speeches are short and crisp which can serve as a blessing as you are not required to go too much into detail. You can come up with a 2- minute speech topic either by researching one that fits perfectly with your interests or you can find one online.

The idea is to enjoy giving the speech. And for you to enjoy delivering your speech, it is important for you to first come up with something that excites you and interests you!

Keep following Frantically Speaking for more such short guides to help you with your public speaking and communication skills.

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The 24 Best Motivational Speeches Our Employees Have Ever Heard

Published: July 19, 2023

It was halftime during one of my 7th-grade football games. And we were losing 14 - 0. With our knees planted in the grass, my team was quietly huddled, drenched in sweat and defeat. Suddenly, it was game over.

A woman listens to motivational speeches through her headphones

That's when our assistant coach burst into our circle and shattered our pity party, delivering one of the best motivational speeches I've heard to this day.

I can't directly quote him because he said some inappropriate things for a blog post (and, in hindsight, probably for a bunch of 13-year-olds too).

The point is he harnessed the power of words to rejuvenate a physically and emotionally drained team. And we came back clawing to win the game.

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Motivational Speech

A motivational speech can come from anywhere or anyone, but it usually has a specific audience in mind.

Whether it's a graduation speech, an all-company meeting, a championship sporting event, or a conference keynote, these speeches are designed to change how their listeners see the challenges facing them in the future.

Like in sports, being motivated at work is crucial for your performance. This rings especially true when you have a looming deadline, an important meeting, or colleagues or customers depending on your performance.

Think about the last time you felt generally unmotivated. What brought you out of that feeling? Sometimes all it takes to get you going is a good night's sleep or witnessing the benefits of your labor.

Still, other times, you might listen to someone say something that resonates with you — that alters how you've been looking at a particular task or problem.

Motivational speeches and speakers can come in all different forms, but this is the one thing they have in common — resonance. They resonate with the right listener at the right time and in the right way.

Who knows, this article is doing some for you right now. (I can dream, can't I?)

We selected 24 of the best motivational speeches from business, sports, entertainment, and other fields to help you stay motivated no matter what your work throws at you. Watch these videos if you want to feel inspired by a project.

Trust me, I was wiping my eyes after I saw them. And while the messages vary from speech to speech, they can put you in the optimal frame of mind for tackling and crushing your next big challenge.

(Disclaimer: Some speeches may contain NSFW language.)

Elon Musk: "The Importance of Never Giving Up" (2020)

Angela Ahrendts: "Leading with Empathy" (2023)

Arianna Huffington: "The Power of Sleep" (2023)

Tim Cook: "Inclusion and Diversity" (2023)

J.K. Rowling: “The Fringe Benefits of Failure, and the Importance of Imagination” (2008)

Sheryl Sandberg: "Lean In" (2021)

Jim Carrey: Commencement Speech at Maharishi University of Management (2014)

Steve Jobs: "How to Live Before You Die" (2005)

Matthew McConaughey: "The Pursuit of Happiness" (2022)

Denzel Washington: "Fall Forward" (2011)

Vera Jones: “But the Blind Can Lead the Blind…” (2016)

Oprah Winfrey: "The Power of Self-Belief" (2020)

Charlie Day: Merrimack College Commencement Speech (2014)

Brené Brown: "The Power of Vulnerability" (2013)

Kobe Bryant: “The Path to Greatness" (2020)

David Foster Wallace: "This Is Water" (2005)

Carol Dweck: "The Growth Mindset" (2020)

Al Pacino: "Inch by Inch" (1999)

Satya Nadella: "Empowering Others" (2023)

Sylvester Stallone: Speech from Rocky Balboa (2006)

Will Smith: Speech from The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

Mel Robbins: "The 5 Second Rule" (2020)

Angela Duckworth: "The Power of Grit" (2020)

Kurt Russell: “This is Your Time” (2004)

The Best Motivational Speeches of All Time

1. elon musk: "the importance of never giving up" (2020), theme of speech: perseverance and resilience.

Elon Musk's "The Importance of Never Giving Up" speech about perseverance and determination is decisive.

In this speech, Musk emphasizes failing and learning from failures as keys to success. He recounts his life and career, demonstrating how he overcame challenges.

One key takeaway from Musk's speech is his advice to adopt a growth mindset.

Musk encourages listeners to view setbacks as learning experiences. He also highlights the value of perseverance, persistence, and taking risks.

Elon Musk's word serves as an upbeat reminder that perseverance, patience, and the desire to attempt things repeatedly in the face of difficulty are essential for success.

"If something is important enough, even if the odds are against you, you should still do it."

2. Angela Ahrendts: "Leading with Empathy" (2023)

Theme of the speech: empathetic leadership....

The "Leading with Empathy" talk by Angela Ahrendts emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and compassion in leadership.

According to Ahrendts, leaders must view their employees as whole people with lives outside of work. Leaders can instill trust, respect, and mutual support in their employees and organizations.

Ahrendts emphasizes the importance of team mission as well. Leaders can inspire their teams by connecting them to a greater goal.

She believes that working together fosters creativity, innovation, and growth.

"Leading with Empathy" is a powerful reminder that leadership requires more than technical knowledge. To truly inspire and motivate their employees, leaders must understand their emotional needs and create a supportive, inclusive environment.

"Empathy is the glue that holds relationships together, whether they are personal or professional."

3. Arianna Huffington: "The Power of Sleep" (2023)

Theme of the speech: sleep and productivity.

The Huffington Post's founder, Arianna Huffington, emphasized the importance of sleep to overall health. In her 2023 speech, "The Power of Sleep," she discusses how sleep deprivation affects our health, productivity, and happiness.

Huffington observes that we have been taught to sacrifice sleep for success. She also mentions that well-rested employees are more creative, efficient, and effective.

To address these issues, Huffington proposes a cultural shift that recognizes sleep as essential to health and wellness.

She advises individuals and organizations to prioritize sleep, avoid technology before bedtime, and create a restful sleep environment. Sleep, according to Huffington, is a necessity, not a luxury.

By recognizing the importance of sleep, people and businesses can enhance their health, productivity, and general well-being.

Arianna Huffington's "The Power of Sleep" speech in 2023 emphasizes the importance of sleep and the dangers of sleep deprivation.

It promotes a culture where getting enough sleep is essential for health and well-being.

"Sleep is the Swiss Army knife of health, it does everything."

4. Tim Cook: "Inclusion and Diversity" (2023)

Theme of the speech: inclusion and diversity.

Apple CEO Tim Cook advocates for inclusion and diversity. He has been instrumental in the company's initiatives to advance fairness and equality inside its ranks and across the technology sector.

Cook has prioritized diversity and inclusion at Apple because he believes it is proper and necessary for innovation and business success.

Unconscious bias training, diverse recruitment, and employee resource groups contributed to his success.

Outside of Apple, Cook has advocated for LGBTQ+ rights and immigration reform. He has raised awareness of these issues and advocated for social change as a business leader.

Tech leaders and others have lauded Cook's commitment to diversity and inclusion. He has raised awareness of these issues, leading to significant change at Apple and elsewhere.

"Inclusion and diversity are not just buzzwords, they are fundamental values that drive innovation and creativity."

5. J.K. Rowling: “The Fringe Benefits of Failure, and the Importance of Imagination” (2008)

Theme of speech: failure.

In J.K. Rowling's 2008 Harvard commencement speech, the Harry Potter author explored how two phenomena -- failure and imagination -- can be crucial to success.

While failure can help you understand where your true passion lies, and where you should focus your energy moving forward, imagination is what will allow you to empathize with other people so you can use your influence to do good.

“We do not need magic to change the world, we carry all the power we need inside ourselves already: we have the power to imagine better.”

"You have to understand your own personal DNA. Don't do things because I do them or Steve Jobs or Mark Cuban tried it. You need to know your personal brand and stay true to it."

6. Sheryl Sandberg: "Lean In" (2021)

Theme of the speech: gender equality and leadership.

Sheryl Sandberg's 2021 talk, "Lean In," encourages women to lean into their careers and leadership roles. She urges women to stand up for one another and themselves to overcome societal and cultural hurdles.

Sandberg highlights the need to have distinct objectives and goals and be prepared to take calculated risks to achieve them.

She also underlines how crucial it is for more female leaders to advance diversity and gender equality across all industries.

Sandberg's speech also emphasizes collaboration. She urges women to mentor other women and look for sponsors and mentors themselves.

The "Lean In" talk by Sheryl Sandberg emphasizes women's voices and perspectives in all aspects of society.

To remove barriers and foster more inclusive and varied workplaces and communities, Sandberg urges women to pursue their professional ambitions with confidence and with the help of their communities.

"We need women at all levels, including the top, to change the dynamic, reshape the conversation, to make sure women's voices are heard and heeded, not overlooked and ignored."

7. Jim Carrey: Commencement Speech at Maharishi University of Management (2014)

Theme of speech: taking risks.

Jim Carrey might make a living as the goofiest comedian around, but in 2014, he combined classic Carrey humor with unforgettable insight at Maharishi University of Management's graduation ceremony.

Jim Carrey opened his speech dishing punchlines, but he eventually opened up about his upbringing and the role fear plays in our lives. You can actually hear the amazement in the students' reactions in the video above.

“I learned many great lessons from my father -- not the least of which is that you can fail at what you don't want, so you might as well take a chance on doing what you love.”

8. Steve Jobs: "How to Live Before You Die" (2005)

Theme of speech: life and career.

Considering the YouTube video of Steve Jobs' 2005 Stanford commencement speech has 24 million views, it's likely that you've seen this one already.

In the speech, Jobs plays on two themes: connecting the dots (anecdote: how taking a calligraphy class helped inspire the design of the Mac) and love & loss (anecdote: how getting fired from Apple helped inspire his greatest innovations).

Perhaps the most memorable part his speech comes at the end, when he quotes the (now-famous) lines from the final issue of his favorite publication, The Whole Earth Catalog:

“Stay hungry. Stay foolish.”

9. Matthew McConaughey: "The Pursuit of Happiness" (2022)

Theme of the speech: discovering true happiness and fulfillment in life..

In "The Pursuit of Happiness," famed actor and motivational speaker Matthew McConaughey provides his enlightened viewpoint on obtaining true happiness and fulfillment.

McConaughey presents a genuine and approachable study of what it means to live a fulfilling life through sincere storytelling and personal anecdotes.

The speech discusses the significance of authenticity and remaining true to oneself. McConaughey encourages people to define their success rather than succumb to social pressures or external expectations.

He stresses aligning our behaviors and decisions with our fundamental values and passions.

McConaughey expresses his conviction in the power of thankfulness and the importance of living in the present moment. He encourages people to create a grateful mindset, recognizing the blessings and possibilities surrounding them.

By appreciating the present and finding joy in the journey, individuals can experience more profound happiness and fulfillment.

"Happiness is not a destination. It's a state of mind, a journey, and a choice we make every day."

10. Denzel Washington: "Fall Forward" (2011)

In his 2011 UPenn commencement speech, Denzel Washington highlighted three reasons why we need to embrace failure in order to be successful. First, everybody will fail at something at some point, so you better get used to it.

Second, if you never fail, take that as a sign that you're not really trying. And third, at the end of the day, failure will help you figure out what path you want to be on.

“Fall forward. Here's what I mean: Reggie Jackson struck out twenty-six-hundred times in his career — the most in the history of baseball. But you don't hear about the strikeouts. People remember the home runs.

Fall forward.

Thomas Edison conducted 1,000 failed experiments. Did you know that? I didn't know that—because #1,001 was the light bulb. Fall forward. Every failed experiment is one step closer to success.”

11. Vera Jones: “But the Blind Can Lead the Blind…” (2016)

Theme of speech: perseverance.

Last year at INBOUND, Vera Jones told a moving story about the life lessons she's learned from raising her blind son.

She explains how having faith in your future and letting it lead you toward your true purpose will help you overcome blinding obstacles.

She also discusses how following your passion and trusting your vision develops empathy, which is a critical leadership skill.

“Passionately play your position no matter how bad things get. You are significant. Why we are here is not for our own glory. Ultimately, we're here to lead and serve everybody else. By doing that, we encourage others to do the same.”

12. Oprah Winfrey: "The Power of Self-Belief" (2020)

Theme of Speech: Self-Belief and Confidence

Oprah Winfrey's 2020 speech "The Power of Self-Belief" emphasized the importance of self-assurance. She attributed her success to her unwavering self-assurance.

According to Oprah, self-belief is not about being arrogant or overconfident. She stresses the significance of overcoming self-doubt and fear, which can prevent people from reaching their goals.

Oprah used personal stories to demonstrate how self-confidence has aided her in life and work. She encouraged her audience to believe in themselves and to embrace their inner strength.

The Power of Self-Belief" reminded us how important it is to have faith in ourselves and our ability to succeed.

"The biggest adventure you can ever take is to live the life of your dreams."

13. Charlie Day: Merrimack College Commencement Speech (2014)

Best known for his role in the sitcom It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, actor Charlie Day had lots of wisdom to share during the 2014 commencement speech at his alma mater, Merrimack College.

Day explained to the audience how college degrees are inherently valueless, since you can't trade them in for cash. Instead, it's you, your hard work, and the risks you take that provide real value in life.

“You cannot let a fear of failure or a fear of comparison or a fear of judgment stop you from doing the things that will make you great. You cannot succeed without the risk of failure.

You cannot have a voice without the risk of criticism. You cannot love without the risk of loss. You must take these risks.”

14. Brené Brown: "The Power of Vulnerability" (2013)

The video above is an animated excerpt from researcher Brené Brown's speech, " The Power of Vulnerability ." In the speech, Brown explores how our fear of not being good enough (among other fears) drives us to shield ourselves from our own vulnerabilities.

The alternative to wearing this emotional suit of armor: Embrace vulnerability through empathizing with others.

"Empathy is a choice, and it's a vulnerable choice. Because in order to connect with you, I have to connect with something in myself that knows that feeling."

15. Kobe Bryant: “The Path to Greatness" (2020)

Theme of the speech: embracing dedication, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of greatness..

Bryant emphasizes setting ambitious goals and working tirelessly to achieve them. Through captivating storytelling and personal anecdotes, he reveals the sacrifices and relentless effort required to excel at the highest level.

Bryant's speech is a testament to the power of hard work, discipline, and a growth mindset in attaining greatness.

The speech also explores embracing failure as a stepping stone to success. Bryant shares how setbacks and challenges can fuel personal growth and resilience.

He encourages individuals to embrace failure, learn from it, and use it as motivation to push beyond their limits.

Bryant's speech goes beyond the realm of sports, offering valuable insights and life lessons applicable to all areas of life.

His relentless pursuit of greatness and unwavering commitment to excellence inspires individuals striving to achieve their goals and dreams.

"I have self-doubt. I have insecurity. I have fear of failure. I have nights when I show up at the arena and I'm like, 'My back hurts, my feet hurt, my knees hurt. I don't have it. I just want to chill.'

We all have self-doubt. You don't deny it, but you also don't capitulate to it. You embrace it."

16. David Foster Wallace: "This Is Water" (2005)

From the opening minutes of David Foster Wallace's 2005 Kenyon College commencement speech , in which he questions commencement speech conventions, it's clear that Wallace has some serious wisdom to share.

The crux of his speech: Many of us are oblivious to our own close-mindedness. We picture ourselves as the centers of our own, individual universes, instead of seeing the bigger, more interconnected picture.

“If you're automatically sure that you know what reality is and who and what is really important, if you want to operate on your default setting, then you, like me, probably won't consider possibilities that aren't annoying and miserable.

But if you've really learned how to think, how to pay attention, then you'll know you have other options.

It will actually be within your power to experience a crowded, hot, slow, consumer hell-type situation as not only meaningful, but sacred — on fire with the same force that lit the stars: love, fellowship, the mystical oneness of all things deep down.”

17. Carol Dweck: "The Growth Mindset" (2020)

Theme of the speech: cultivating a growth mindset for personal and professional development..

In "The Growth Mindset," Carol Dweck, a renowned psychologist, and author, delivers an enlightening speech on the power of adopting a growth mindset for personal and professional growth.

Dweck's extensive research on mindset and achievement provides the foundation for her impactful message.

Dweck explains the difference between a fixed mindset, where individuals believe their abilities are fixed traits, and a growth mindset, where individuals believe their abilities can be developed through effort and learning.

She demonstrates how a growth mindset fosters resilience, learning, and innovation through relatable stories and compelling examples.

Dweck's speech resonates with individuals seeking personal and professional development, as she provides insights into how adopting a growth mindset can positively impact all areas of life.

Her research-based approach and engaging speaking style make "The Growth Mindset" an inspiring resource for individuals striving for continuous growth and improvement.

"The passion for stretching yourself and sticking to it, even when it's not going well, is the hallmark of the growth mindset."

Famous Short Speeches With Inspirational Takeaways

18. al pacino: "inch by inch" (1999), theme of speech: teamwork.

Yes, this speech is from a football movie (Any Given Sunday), but trust me: This isn't your stereotypical rah-rah-go-get-'em sports speech. It's deeper than that. It's about life, and loss, and ... gosh darn it just listen to Al Pacino.

He's pouring his soul out!

“Either we heal as a team or we're gonna crumble, inch by inch, play by play, till we're finished. We're in hell right now, gentlemen, believe me.

And we can stay here and get the $&#@ kicked out of us, or we can fight our way back into the light. We can climb out of hell, one inch at a time.”

19. Satya Nadella: "Empowering Others" (2023)

Theme of the Speech: Empowerment and Collaboration

Satya Nadella's 2023 lecture, "Empowering Others," emphasizes the importance of leadership that empowers others rather than focusing on personal success.

He emphasizes the importance of leaders cultivating a culture of inclusion and belonging in which everyone feels respected and able to accomplish their best work.

Nadella also discusses the significance of technology in positive development. Some of society's most important issues may be resolved by technology, but proper development and application are required.

According to Nadella, empathy and emotional intelligence are essential for outstanding leadership. He suggests that Leaders listen to and understand. their team members' needs and motivations.

Leaders can develop a culture of trust and collaboration that will help the team flourish.

Satya Nadella's "Empowering Others" provides a special message about leadership in the current day. By emphasizing diversity, empathy, and responsible innovation, Nadella encourages audiences to strive for excellence while being mindful of their impact on others and the world.

"Success is not just about what we achieve individually, but what we enable others to achieve."

20. Sylvester Stallone: Speech from Rocky Balboa (2006)

Theme of speech: never give up.

I had to put this one next since it plays along the same themes as Denzel Washington's UPenn speech. In the scene above, from the 2006 film Rocky Balboa, the title character (played by Sylvester Stallone) is having a heart-to-heart with his son.

The advice he gives him: Don't let your failures or the adversity you face slow you down. Keep. Moving. Forward.

“Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It's a very mean and nasty place, and I don't care how tough you are, it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it.

You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't about how hard you hit. It's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done!”

21. Will Smith: Speech from The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

Theme of speech: don’t let them bring you down.

Here's another speech from the big screen, this time from the 2006 film The Pursuit of Happyness.

In the scene above, Will Smith's character explains to his son why he shouldn't pursue basketball (because he'll end up being "below average") before having a major change of heart.

“Don't ever let somebody tell you ... you can't do something. Not even me. All right? You got a dream. You gotta protect it. People can't do something themselves, they want to tell you can't do it. If you want something, go get it. Period.”

22. Mel Robbins: "The 5 Second Rule" (2020)

Theme of the Speech: Action and Overcoming Self-Doubt

The "The 5 Second Rule" speech by Mel Robbins promotes action to achieve goals and overcome concerns and doubts.

When confronted with a decision or action that needs to be completed but you are hesitating or procrastinating, countdown from 5, and then act. According to Robbins, this method breaks habit loops that keep us unhealthy.

Counting down and taking action may assist us in overcoming uncertainty and self-doubt and moving toward our objectives. For success, Robbins also promotes mentality and self-talk.

She believes that to realize our potential, we must consciously reframe negative thoughts and limiting beliefs.

Mel Robbins' presentation "The 5 Second Rule" is a practical and efficient technique to overcome procrastination and achieve goals.

Robbins inspires listeners to take command of their lives and achieve by emphasizing attitude, self-talk, and positive actions.

"You are never going to feel like doing the things that are tough, difficult, or uncertain, but you have a choice."

23. Angela Duckworth: "The Power of Grit" (2020)

Theme of the Speech: Spirit and Perseverance

Angela Duckworth examines the significance of perseverance and resilience in achievement in her book "The Power of Grit." According to Duckworth, grit—passion and determination—is essential for long-term success and overcoming obstacles.

Duckworth addresses grit and mentality, believing that people who view challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than threats will develop resilience and determination over time.

She advocates for a growth mindset, which believes people can acquire intelligence and other qualities through hard work. Duckworth places a premium on rigorous practice to achieve skill and mastery.

She recommends soliciting feedback, setting challenging goals, and intentionally improving abilities and succeeding. Angela Duckworth's "The Power of Grit" illuminates long-term achievement.

Duckworth emphasizes attitude, focused practice, and resilience to urge listeners to acquire grit and pursue their passions with tenacity.

"Grit is passion and perseverance for very long-term goals. Grit is having stamina. Grit is sticking with your future, day in, day out, not just for the week, not just for the month, but for years, and working really hard to make that future a reality."

24. Kurt Russell: “This is Your Time” (2004)

Theme of speech: inspiring and believing in your team.

The Miracle on Ice is still considered the biggest upset in Olympic hockey history. And for good reason. The Soviet Union won six of the last seven Olympic gold medals, and the U.S. team consisted only of amateur players.

It was obvious the Soviets were better. But, in the movie Miracle, which told the incredible story of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team, Kurt Russell's character — Coach Herb Brooks — knew that this game was different.

The U.S. was better than the Soviets that day. And his speech conveyed such a strong belief in his team that they pulled off one of the greatest sports moments of the 20th century.

“If we played 'em ten times, they might win nine. But not this game… Not tonight. Tonight, we skate with them. Tonight, we stay with them. And we shut them down because we can!

Tonight, WE are the greatest hockey team in the world. You were born to be hockey players, every one of you. And you were meant to be here tonight. This is your time.”

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Business Conversation: 32 Business English Topics to Get Students Thinking

Teaching business English is more or less the same as teaching standard English —with a few twists and tweaks.

Usually you’ll start with advanced students who need English for work-related purposes.

But what to talk about? The business section of the newspaper? Their company’s financial state? The economy?

This is where I come in to help you with my magical list of 32 business English conversation topics to start off the class with a bang.

These business English topics and questions are great for sparking more in-depth conversations and debates .

After the discussion, you could seamlessly jump into textbook material , creating a harmonious rhythm in your business English class!

1. English for Work

2. businesses, 3. negotiations, 4. job interviews, 5. working abroad, 6. company culture, 9. business presentations, 10. meetings, 11. conferences, 12. termination, 13. managers, 14. small business, 15. work appraisals, 16. retirement, 17. work experience, 18. overtime, 19. business trips, 20. competition, 21. risk management, 22. investing, 23. colleagues, 24. hard times, 27. customers, 28. customer service, 29. marketing, 30. consulting, 31. business ethics, 32. rules & regulations.

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

Students are often asked why they are learning business English, and being able to discuss this in a clear and informative way will do wonders for their confidence. Here are a few questions:

Do you think English is the global business language?
How often do you use English in your career?
Do you feel more comfortable calling or emailing someone in English?
Do you think English will get you promoted?
Have you ever felt nervous speaking to foreign colleagues or clients in English?

Talking about other businesses is, essentially, talking business. Other businesses could be friends, foes, inspirations or anything else. A simple topic, yet such a deep one. Some questions you could ask are:

What can businesses do to succeed?
What is your idea of a “business”?
What businesses are successful in your country/industry? Why?
Why do you think some businesses fail?
“Business is a combination of war and sport.” Do you agree? Why/why not?

No verb goes with the word “business” better than “negotiation.” Some could say negotiations are business. It’s a good topic that has students speaking about any and all kinds of negotiations. You could ask questions such as:

How good are you at negotiating?
What are some good negotiation tactics?
Do you do negotiations in your work, personal life or while shopping?
What have you had to negotiate for in your life? (Examples: House, car, items at a bazaar)
Do you think men or women are better at negotiations? Why?

Unless your students got a job hookup from a friend or a family member, chances are they have something to say about job interviews. They are the “first dates” of the business world and this topic gets some good chatter going. A few great questions are:

How do you feel about job interviews?
What is the most important part of a job interview?
What advice do you have for a successful interview?
What questions are common in job interviews in your company/industry/country?
What was the worst interview you have ever had?

It can be very helpful to show your students actual videos of interviews to give them a better idea of what to expect. For example, you can use FluentU to show them the job interview scene from “The Pursuit of Happyness,” starring Will Smith, and help them pick out some key interview vocabulary:

Some students, especially if they need English for work, may have had some experience working in another country or even have some colleagues who are working abroad. This topic is good since working abroad becomes more and more relevant in this day and age. A few good questions include:

Have you ever worked in another country?
What difficulties can working abroad have?
If you could choose, where would you like to work abroad?
What work experience have you had with colleagues from abroad?
What are some cultural differences between your country and foreign countries your company does business with?

Company culture is an essential aspect to any company, and your students will need to understand the value of a good company culture versus a bad one. Here are some questions to try out:

Do you believe that company culture is important? If yes, how do companies steer clear of negative company culture?
What is the company culture of your company?
Do you think your company could create a more positive, well-rounded company culture?
What are some of the perks in your company?
What perks or benefits do you look for in a prospective company’s culture? Why are these important to you?

An inevitable topic in the world of business, students do enjoy sharing views on crises. They can share their thoughts, questions and opinions about responding to all kinds of crises. Unless a particular crisis is hitting their country terribly hard, where some may feel sensitive about the topic, it’s an excellent topic to speak about. You could bring up questions like:

How do you manage crises?
What kinds of crises occur in your workplace?
What sorts of crises have affected your country?
What is your back-up plan for a major crisis?
What have you learned from past crises?

Leaders are the coaches of business. They provide guidance and wisdom to many. Your students may feel inspired by some notable leaders, or they may look up to leaders in their respective countries, companies or industries. They may even dream of becoming leaders themselves. Get students talking about what kinds of people are best equipped to lead businesses. Some questions to ask are:

What is your definition of a leader?
What makes an excellent leader?
How is the leadership in your company/industry/country?
Describe the best leader you have worked for/with.
How good of a leader do you believe you are?

In this day and age, presentations are everywhere thanks to modern technology. There’s a good chance that not only do your students have something to say about them, but they may have to give some at their job. Questions you could give them are:

What makes a good presentation?
What makes a bad presentation?
Do you have to give any presentations at work? If so, what are they about?
How do you feel about giving presentations?
How do you feel about watching presentations?

Unless your students work an hourly position, they more than likely have meetings and talking about meetings is a nice topic since it’s so relatable. Great questions include:

How often do you have meetings at work?
Do you like meetings at work? Why/why not?
What is often discussed at your meetings?
What are the advantages/disadvantages to having meetings?
“If you must have a meeting, lose the chairs.” Do you agree? Why/why not?

Many students may well have an important conference in the very near future and want to prepare. Networking, detailed job descriptions, presentation discussions, gathering information and the general culture exchange are all key areas of a professional conference. Here are some questions:

How would you open a conversation with someone in English at a conference? Is it any different in your native language?
Do you normally see all the presentations at a conference? What are some good and bad reasons you might miss a presentation or two?
Do you find it more challenging making small talk or discussing business at conferences? Why do you think that is?
Do you go out of your way to meet new people at conferences, or do you stick to your pack of colleagues? What are some great reasons to meet new people?
Are there parties at conferences? Any good stories?

This is the “getting dumped” experience of the workforce, but it’s something that’s a part of business. If students want to speak better business English, navigate tough interview questions and plan their careers, then it would behoove them to practice talking about getting terminated. A few good questions could be:

Have you ever been terminated?
How does one get terminated at your job?
Have you ever had to terminate anyone?
How can you prevent getting terminated?
If you were terminated, what would you do?

Slightly different (or vastly, depending on your work) than leaders, managers are something that everybody has something to say about. Love them or hate them, they’re an essential subject to discuss in business. Perhaps some of your students are managers themselves. You could ask:

What do you think about your manager(s)?
What qualities make a good manager?
How does your manager spend their time?
How can a manager motivate employees?
What is your manager’s managing style?

Small businesses are the cornerstone of growing enterprises and thanks to e-commerce they are on the rise. A few questions to ask the class could be:

Are small businesses common in your country?
What challenges do small businesses have in your country?
What are some successful small businesses in your town/city?
How can a small business become successful?
If you had a small business, what kind would it be?

Any decent company gives their employees a sort of appraisal every so often, so it’s a good topic to discuss since appraisals are made to improve the quality of the employee’s work. You could ask things like:

Do you have performance reviews in your company? How often?
How do you feel about them?
What do your performance reviews cover?
How important do you think appraisals are?
What happens if you have a good/bad appraisal?
How do you feel about feedback about yourself?

Even though retirement is the end of the road for business and a long way down the road for some students, it’s a good topic to discuss since it affects everybody eventually. Great questions could be:

What is the retirement age in your country?
What do people in your country usually do once they are retired?
Where do retired people usually live in your country?
What are the advantages/disadvantages to retirement?
What do you think you will do when you retire?

Everybody talks about his or her work experience and it helps them with who they are in their career today. Some great questions are:

What work experience do you have?
How did you like your previous work?
What can you gain from work experience?
What have you learned from your work experience?
What have you learned about yourself?

Overtime is as enjoyable as it is avoidable. Unfortunately, it’s inevitable but most students will have a thing or two to chime in with about overtime. Good questions could be:

How much overtime do you usually work?
How do you feel about working overtime?
What is the overtime policy like in your company?
Describe the worst overtime experience you have ever had.
What is a solution to reducing overtime?

Business trips, whether they be domestic or international, are more and more common these days and are a good topic to discuss. After all, most likely your students that go on business trips need to speak English! You could ask:

Do you go on business trips at work? Where?
What are the advantages/disadvantages of business trips?
What advice do you have for somebody traveling for business?
Where would you like to go on a business trip? Why?
What do you think is the future of business trips?

If your students want to speak business English well, then they’ll need to talk about competition. The competition is everywhere and is a great topic to really scope out how your students feel about business in general. Great questions could be:

Who exactly is your company’s competition?
What advantages/disadvantages does your competition have?
How can your company overcome the competition?
How competitive is your industry?
How competitive are you in general? Why?

Most students should be familiar with risk and hopefully more familiar with how to manage it so it’s a fine topic to incite some quality discussion. Great questions are:

What risks does your company come across?
How does your company handle these risks?
What situation could be a big risk to your company?
What is your plan in case you come across a risk?
Does your company have a contingency plan?

Investing is an important topic that many business English students know a fair deal about, depending on their business. It’s a relatable topic that could be of special interest to some students. You could ask questions like:

What is your opinion on investing?
What investments do you have? Why?
Are you a conservative or risky investor? Why?
What do you consider to be a bad investment? Why?
If you had $1000 to invest, what would you do?

Everybody has something to say about colleagues and talking about them can help get students talking about more personal things, which can really help them exit their comfort zones. A few good questions could be:

What do you think about your colleagues?
What are some common problems with colleagues?
Have you ever had any challenging situations/altercations with your colleagues?
Do you spend time with your colleagues outside of work? Why/why not?
Who is your favorite colleague? Why?

Unfortunately, hard times are quite prevalent these days. But talking about them is good for business since it could expand your students’ knowledge of current events. You could ask questions like:

What hard times is your industry/country going through?
What hard times have you experienced?
What have you learned from hard times?
What are the benefits of hard times?
Tell me about what you did when you went through some hard times.

Everybody loves raises, but talking about them (especially with a superior) is a different story. Amongst classmates though, talking about raises can bring up some interesting chatter. Questions like these are good:

How often do you get a raise at your job?
What does it take to get a raise at your job?
What advice do you have for someone who wants a raise?
Do you think raises are important? Why/why not?
Do you deserve a raise? Why/why not?

Some may say that business is sales and they just might be right. Sales are to business as education is to knowledge. Talking about sales is an important skill in business English, especially if some students need to sell in English. A few great discussion questions are:

Have you ever worked in sales?
How good of a salesperson are you? Why/why not?
What makes a good salesperson?
What is the sales process like in your company?
What strategies do you think are good for sales?

But alas, there can’t be sales—or business for that matter!—without customers. Since everyone has been a customer on more than a few occasions in their lives, it’s a great topic for students! Questions like these work well:

Who are the customers for your company/industry?
As a customer in general, what do you usually expect?
How do you gain more customers?
How do you lose customers?
“The customer is always right.” Do you agree/disagree?

Customer service is also another aspect of business that both salespeople and customers know a thing or two about. It’s a fantastic topic that can bring some enlightening discussion. You can ask questions like:

What is excellent customer service?
What is poor customer service?
Have you ever had to deal with customers? How was it?
How do/would you deal with customer problems?
Can you think of any companies known for their exceptional customer service?

Marketing is an essential field in the world of business and many students enjoy talking about this diverse subject. You could ask questions such as:

What is your understanding of marketing?
What is your company’s target market?
What kind of marketing does your company use?
In your opinion what forms of marketing are the most/least successful?
What kind of marketing is successful in your country?

Many companies, big and small, have experience with consultants and it’s an important topic in the world of business improvement. Some great questions could be:

What is your definition of “consulting”?
What is your opinion of consultants?
What are the advantages/disadvantages of consultants?
What area of advice are you an expert at? Why?
“Sometimes you need a consultant to tell you the obvious.” Do you agree/disagree? Why?

Your eager business English students have most likely studied a bit of business ethics in their native language, so why not bring it to life in English? Environmental issues, labor rights, health and wellness are all components of business ethics. You can ask these questions:

What are “business ethics” and how do they affect your community?
Would you consider your company ethical? Are there any business practices you disagree with?
What are a few companies that have been known for bad business ethics? How about good ones?
How often do you talk about business ethics with colleagues or managers?
How can companies improve their business ethics?

Rules and regulations are literally everywhere in the business world and they could present some useful and interesting information. You could give the students questions like:

What rules and regulations exist at your job?
What happens if you break any of these rules?
How do you feel about the regulations at your job?
Why do you think rules and regulations exist?
Have you ever had any problems with rules and regulations?

So there you have it, a vast list of various topics that are great for business English students.

Although it’s preferable (and likely) that your students already have jobs to answer these questions but since these topics are so relatable and general, it shouldn’t be a problem to start off the classes with some simple questions on such topics.

You could even choose the topics according to the current business news and mix the questions up a bit. The best piece of advice is to make it relatable, relevant and remarkable this way the students have something to say and never lose interest.

So, let’s talk business!

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My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

509 Informative Speech Ideas and Topics

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

How to Choose the Right Informative Topic

Half the battle of presenting a speech or writing an essay is choosing the right topic. Choosing a good informative speech topic or informative essay topic can keep your audience entertained, your reader interested, and your own work process more enjoyable. Here are a few tips to help you choose a topic:

Know your audience or reader: Your informative presentation – whether through speech or essay – should cover a subject not already well known to your audience, but still relevant to them. If you do choose a topic they’re familiar with, then present new and exciting information. Consider the age, knowledge level, and interests of your audience when preparing your informational speech or essay.

Consider your own interests: Think of your own passions and areas of expertise that you think people could benefit from learning more about. Choosing a topic you care about will help your speech or essay be better received. Your passion will keep them engaged and curious to learn more.

Consider length requirements : How much time are you allotted for your informative speech? What is the page requirement for your informative essay? You should be able to thoroughly cover the topic in the amount of time you are given. If you don’t think you have enough knowledge or personal interest to talk about illegal drug use among teens, saving money as a college student, or another informative topic for 20 minutes, you may need to consider a different subject.

The good news is that there are countless options available. Below are lists of informative topics for speeches and essays. Remember that, in order to choose the best informative topic for you, you need to consider your audience, your interests, and your time and length requirements. Then, customize the central idea to suit your situation.

Best 10 Informative Speech Topics

Don’t have time to read our full list of 500+ topic ideas? Here is our list of 10 best informative speech topics.

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Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

How to adopt a dog
The history of motorcycles
The best sales tactics
The differences between male and female communication
America’s fastest growing cities
The importance of education for the economy
Different stages of poverty
How to cook vegetarian
How to keep your skin looking young and wrinkle free
The different types of poetry

List of Informative Speech Topics

Communication
Current Events
Environment
Food and Drink
International Relations
National Security

Relationships

Supernatural
Demonstration
Easy / Simple
Interesting
Legislation
Pop Culture

10 Animal Informative Speech Topics

The role of cats throughout history.
Caring for hermit crabs.
What are the best pets?
The lives of ants.
The different types of tropical fish.
The different exotic breeds of cats.
How to raise rabbits.
The beauty of wolves.
How to adopt a dog.
Raising pet snakes.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics About Animals .

10 Automotive Informative Speech Topics

Is it better to buy or lease a car?
How to choose the right tires for your car.
How to make your car run better.
What to look for in a new car.
How to change your car’s oil.
Dirt bike riding safety tips.
How to drive a stick shift.
The history of motorcycles.
How to change a flat tire.
The best muscle cars.

14 Business Informative Speech Topics

Taking your brand to the next level with three easy steps: promoting, advertising and marketing.
How business owners’ personal characteristics impact their business.
What is the impact of training and development on employee job performance?
Leadership styles and their effects on employee productivity.
Engaged employees result in high retention.
Developing personal power in an organization.
Impacts of incentives on employee performance.
Psychological tactics in marketing.
How to create a successful brand.
The importance of accounting research.
The benefits of enterprise resource planning.
The benefits of multilevel marketing.
The best sales tactics.
How to nail the negotiation in your first meeting.

See this page for a full list of Informative Speech Topics for Business .

8 Communication Informative Speech Topics

Young brothers talking with tin can telephone on grunge backgrou

How deaf people talk with emotion.
The differences between male and female communication.
How to be a persuasive speaker.
How to improve your conversation skills.
Some simple conversation tips.
What is neural linguistic programming (NLP)?
Why smiles are contagious.
How to manage communicative disorders.

4 Current Events Informative Speech Topics

America’s fastest growing cities.
The Occupy Wall Street movement.
Poverty in New York City.
What is the national happiness rate?

6 Economy Informative Speech Topics

The history of taxes on carbon dioxide emissions.
What would be the impact on economic growth if everyone produced their own food?
The impact of progressive taxation on the provision of social services.
Economic growth of the People’s Republic of China.
The effects of price and demand of agricultural products.
The importance of education for the economy.

10 Education Informative Speech Topics

How EFL teachers can use the internet as a classroom aid.
Should teachers and students be friends on social networks?
Why is our education system only based on theory and not practical knowledge?
Should students be permitted to eat during classes?
The importance of formal education for building a successful career.
The pros and cons of teaching students three languages in school.
What materials work best in a sandbag for blocking floodwaters?
Hypnosis: its misconceptions and common uses.
Learning disabilities and their effects on learning in college.
Are test scores a good indication of a school’s competency?

See this page for a full list of Informative Persuasive Speech Topics .

10 Environment Informative Speech Topics

Should politicians bring more pollution to our country?
What would happen if finite resources were not used wisely?
Four main reasons for generating genetically modified crops.
The effect of organic and inorganic fertilizer on maize.
Are we going to lose the rainforest?
The best ways to protect the environment.
Commercial crops and their effect on the water table.
The environmental impact of a meat based diet.
Recycling helps mitigate the greenhouse effect.
Why we should stop global warming.

See this page for a full list of Environmental Informative Speech Topics .

3 Ethics Informative Speech Topics

Is it sometimes better to tell a lie than to tell the truth?
Is tolerance the same as love?
Is hunting morally acceptable?

10 Family Informative Speech Topics

Adopted children should always have the option to see their biological parents.
The impact of single parenting and its effects on children.
The appropriate penalties for parental negligence.
What it is like being the youngest of a family of 19 kids.
The importance of the parent-child relationship.
My father is my hero.
How to pick a name for your children.
Cases of domestic violence against men.
The importance of family.
The history of foster care.

See this page for a full list of Family Informative Speech Topics . We also have a page with Speech Topics for Kids .

18 Financial Informative Speech Topics

How banks are getting paid twice for your mortgage.
How to save money in college.
How to build credit.
How to save money on your income taxes.
How to apply for a credit card.
The basics of financial aid.
The importance of saving money.
How to recognize stock market trends.
The process of buying a house.
The basics of internet banking safety.
The best investment strategies.
How to live on $5 a day/ Eating well on $5 a day.
Tips on how do deal with money problems.
The history of our currency.
How the US Dollar affects the Euro.
Debt relief programs.
Does China have a serious stock market?

9 Food and Drink Informative Speech Topics

The difference between Gatorade and Powerade.
How to cook a delicious dinner.
How to grow your own food.
The different types of coffee.
How to cook vegetarian.
How to make a cocktail.
The best types of cheese.
The best exotic fruits.
How to make Chinese food.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topic Ideas On Food, Drink, and Cooking .

11 Fun Informative Speech Topics

The history of Valentine’s Day, the celebrations in different cultures.
Some laugh, but there are many courageous people who overcome stuttering.
Funny Saint Patricks Day parades, pub decorating, Irish fun runs.
Differences between apes and monkeys, monkeys in space programs, how they live in groups in the zoo.
Your hand: what your signature, handwriting and your hand palm lines say about your character.
Amphibian vehicles – search for information about those rare car-boat vehicles, and you have lots of fun informative speech topics to talk about!
Cartoons in relation to our Freedom of Speech and Expression principles.
Show the listeners to your public speaking speech some flags of unknown countries, ask them what nation you mean and explain colors and symbols.
The extraterrestrial life stories and future theories from French author Jules Verne.
Etiquette and manners, how to cope with special situations, how to behave at official ceremonies you see enough public speaking speeches spicing humor.
Fashion styles and dress codes at parties and ceremonies.

See this page for a full list of Fun Informative Speech Topics .

5 Geography Informative Speech Topics

The antipodes – Places on Earth which are diametrically opposite to each other.
Cartography – How terrestrial globe spheres are crafted.
Climatology – Patterns in climate change, like rising temperatures and flooding.
Coasts – Types of coasts, deltas, sea cliffs and beaches.
What does the continental drift theory mean in vulcanology?

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics On Geography .

9 Government Informative Speech Topics

The role of accounting in the control of public expenditures in Nigeria.
What factors affect community participation in public meetings?
How difficult is it to run a country of 1.2 billion people?
Speeding cameras are meant to provide government money.
Should the President be paid while being in office?
The Federal government’s separation of powers.
Journalism is our weapon against corruption.
How a bill passes in state government.
The best city planning practices.

10 Health Informative Speech Topics

Steroids, antibiotics, sprays: are these things hurting us?
The effects of dissociative identity disorder or multiple personality disorder.
Bigger isn’t always better: the effect fast food has on America.
The importance of proper stretching before a workout.
How to keep your skin looking young and wrinkle free.
The different types of insomnia.
The causes and effects of Alzheimer’s disease.
The psychosocial aspects of organ transplantation.
Controversial ideas about whooping cough vaccines.
The reasons why stress and depression should be taken seriously.

See this page for a full list of Informative Speech Topics on Health and Fitness . We also have a page with Medical Topics and Psychology topics.

10 History Informative Speech Topics

past, present, future, time concept on blackboard

The beauty of ancient Egyptian art.
The most beautiful paintings in history.
The history of fashion.
The history of high heels.
The history of cosmetic makeup.
The history of Tibetan burial practices.
What Olympic events did ancient Greece have?
The history of swear words and their impact on society.
Words and their meanings that have changed with time.
Why dragons perform in Chinese New Year celebrations.

See this page for a full list of History Speech Topics .

16 International Relations Informative Speech Topics

Economic development and the role of the private sector in reducing poverty in Lesotho.
Tourism and remittances are the solutions for Tonga’s economic growth.
The military of the Philippines.
Is South Africa ready for a female president?
Can democracy bring stability to Pakistan?
South Africa is an amazing country.
The impact of U.S drone strikes.
The discovery of oil in Equatorial Guinea.
How to help refugees.
Why everyone should live in China.
The status of trade relations in East Africa.
The effects of the Dowry system in India.
Sri Lanka after thirty years of war.
Why Africa is underdeveloped.
The political system of India.
The purpose of the United Nations.

2 Language Informative Speech Topics

English is a link language for many parts of the world.
The origins of cliches.

6 Literature Informative Speech Topics

Inside the mind of Edgar Allen Poe.
How to write a book.
The three trials of Oscar Wilde.
The meaning of The House on Mango Street.
The history of vampires in literature.
The different types of poetry.

21 Media Informative Speech Topics

What steps are involved in creating a movie or television show?
How Spotify hurts new artists.
The benefits of watching less TV.
How the media has hurt our body image.
Books that were turned into terrible movies.
The benefits of reading a newspaper.
The basics of photography.
The history of the Titanic movie.
Some famous advertising campaigns.
The effects of misleading advertisements.
Some important women in the media.
The best foreign TV shows.
The benefits of satellite radio.
The best TV sitcoms.
Al Jazeera, the largest Arabic news channel is the Middle East.
How Disney produces and distributes short animated films.
The amazing stage performance of Christina Aguilera.
The love life of Jennifer Aniston,
The story of CNN International reporter, Christiane Amanpour.
The ten actors who played James Bond.
Top three worst Woody Allen movies.

9 Music Informative Speech Topics

The different types of marching bands.
The history of french horns.
The history of house music.
The evolution of rock and roll.
The beauty of reggae music.
Music as a “lifestyle”.
The best electronic dance music.
How to play the kazoo.
The beauty of Haitian music.

4 National Security Informative Speech Topics

How illegal things are smuggled into the country.
The United States military branches.
The importance of the Air Force.
The branches of the military.

10 Politics Informative Speech Topics

Should the U.S. restrict immigration?
The benefits of communism.
The most important women in politics.
Define the term foreign policy and offer current examples.
The delicate position of women and children in war torn societies and countries on the globe.
How issues on oil in Nigeria lift the oil prices worldwide.
How a free trade agreement works.
The major environmental problems in Australia.
National gun control statistics compared to the statistics of other countries.
The function of the Federal Reserve Board in maintaining a stable financial system.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics about Politics .

10 Psychology Informative Speech Topics

The benefits of greeting people.
Positive thinking is the key to peaceful living.
The meaning of dreams.
How to explain child geniuses.
Difference between empathy and sympathy.
How to be more sensitive for an emotionally insensitive person.
How to know a person’s true personality when we are so good at disguise nowadays.
Secrets about quiet people.
How to respond or take a compliment.
Why do people lie and how to deal with that.

See this page for a full list of Psychology Speech Topics .

12 Relationships Informative Speech Topics

How marriages today differ from marriages from the 60’s.
The secrets of happy and successful relationships.
How to choose the right relationship.
How to get along with your roommate.
The guidelines for military marriages.
How to make long distance relationships work.
The average age to get married.
How to talk to people when you have nothing to say.
How to recognize toxic friends.
Your Brain Falls in Love Not Only Your Heart.
Who Was and Is Cupid and Co.
All You Wanted to Know About Engagement.

10 Religion Informative Speech Topics

A comparison of Genesis and Revelation in the Bible.
Modern values are violating religious values.
How Christ is present in our world.
What percentage of the world’s population are Christians?
Why worshipping Satan isn’t a bad thing.
Why the bunny symbolizes Easter.
God helps those who help themselves.
A comparison of different religions.
The history of the Christian church.
The main principles of Christianity.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics on Religion and Spirituality .

10 Science Informative Speech Topics

The difference between an alligator and a crocodile.
Why whales should not be hunted for food.
Transhumanism and the evolution of the human race.
How we can create geniuses.
Falabella horses are the smallest in the world.
Why is the colonization of Mars important?
Albert Einstein’s contributions to science.
The isolation of nicotinic acid from tobacco.
The journey to becoming a nuclear physicist.
Some interesting facts about the human brain.

See this page for a full list of Informative Science Speech Topics .

31 Self-Help Informative Speech Topics

The difference between boundaries and limits.
The benefits of affirmation.
Three goals to strive for in life.
How to present yourself with confidence.
Why it’s important to be yourself.
How to manage your anger.
How to make a good first impression.
How to prepare for a job interview.
Your actions determine your future.
How to set goals and achieve them.
How to enhance your public speaking skills.
How to increase your motivation.
What makes life meaningful?
How to take your next big step in life.
How to construct an argument.
How to boost your self-esteem.
How to be happy being single.
How to avoid procrastination.
How to improve your manners.
How to be a good leader.
The importance of a good attitude.
How to be more romantic.
How to break bad habits.
How to overcome conflict.
Happiness: The thing we all look for but never really understand.
What it’s like to be falling in love.
What is love and what’s not.
The secret to resolving conflicts.
Dancing is your secret weapon for happiness and health.
Things to remember if you don’t want to die with any regrets.

10 School Informative Speech Topics

Schools should not make money by selling unhealthy candy and soft drinks to students.
Music with foul language in it should not be allowed at school dances.
Students should be able to listen to their MP3 players during class.
Students who commit cyberbullying should be suspended or expelled from school.
Boys and girls should be taught in separate classrooms.
Homeschooling produces better results than public schools.
High School will be the best time of your life.
Boys are lazier than girls.
All students should wear school uniform.
It is possible to Ace your way through High School.

See this page for a full list of School Speech Topics for All Grades .

10 Society Informative Speech Topics

Why it is bad to judge people by their appearance.
The lives of isolated indigenous people.
How to tell someone they are annoying you without being rude.
How human behavior affects society.
Left handed people: the underrepresented minority group.
Is the military a fulfilling career choice for women?
The effects of discrimination.
The importance of newspapers in our daily life.
Do actors and athletes make too much money?
Why I’m optimistic about our nation’s future.

See this page for a full list of Informative Society Speech Topics .

10 Sport Informative Speech Topics

Should female students be allowed to play on male sports teams?
How to do a walking handstand or a cartwheel into the splits.
Is netball or hockey more dangerous?
The benefits of sports for all ages.
Why the spelling bee shouldn’t be on ESPN.
The worst professional sports teams.
The importance of sports and games.
What you should have in your golf bag.
The history of professional fighting.
The worst trades in sports history.

See this page for a full list of Informative Sports Speech Topics .

3 Supernatural Informative Speech Topics

The mystery of the Bermuda triangle.
The evidence that bigfoot exists.
The existence of telepathy.

41 Technology Informative Speech Topics

How roads are built.
Is wind energy cheap, effective, and practical?
Why college students should be careful about what they put on social media.
The uses for artificial intelligence computer networks.
The danger of putting too much personal information on social networks.
Modes of communication are constantly changing.
How has social media impacted our daily lives?
The line between the human brain and a computer.
Why technology is a bad thing for growing minds.
How technology has destroyed human interaction.
How is text messaging affecting teen literacy?
The advantages and disadvantages of social media.
The effects of violent video games on children.
The decline of interpersonal communication due to technology.
The difference between hardware and software.
Antivirus software: beware of malware functions.
The history of programming languages.
How voice over IP works.
What would we do without electricity?
The benefits of 3D printing.
The major technological changes since 1990.
The negative effects of cellphones.
How to avoid computer viruses.
The evolution of the internet.
Computers through the decades.
How airport biometrics systems work.
Robots now and in the future.
How satellites help communication.
How a water plant operates.
How watches work.
The evolution of video games.
How cellular phones work.
The evolution of the iPhone.
How to build a computer.
How nuclear power works.
How search engines work.
How air pressure works.
The best new technologies.
The future of electric cars.
How to practice cyber safety.
A guide to different social media sites.

15 Travel Informative Speech Topics

How students can find great vacation bargains.
The best cruise vacations.
Famous parliament buildings
How to test the quality of water when traveling.
Interesting underground railroad systems in capital cities.
Investigation shipwrecks at the bottom of the sea.
The benefits of wind tunnels on transport.
The discovery of the famous temples in the Maya culture.
The influence of global warming on Alpine skiing.
The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The Wright Brother’s first flight.
Totem poles and obelisks are symbols of unity, tradition, and pride.
What you need to know about the Principality of Andorra.
Why is there a Titanic replica?
Why the unsinkable and invincible Titanic sank.

9 Workplace Informative Speech Topics

I Love to Work Pin Button Enjoy Job Career

The benefits of break time for nursing mothers in the workplace.
The prevalence of dangerous chemicals in the workplace.
How to survive working in a restaurant.
Why underwater welding is dangerous.
How it is to work in the fast food industry.
How to get a great internship.
How to become a comedian.
The most dangerous jobs.
What are the fastest growing careers?

List of Informative Essay Topics

14 college informative essay topics.

young student girl with books in library

Benefits of a college degree
Crimes on college campuses
Healthiest foods in the campus cafeteria
How students can stay safe on a college campus
How students can use eLibrary Curriculum Edition for research
How to beat senioritis
How to find cheap textbooks
How to pick a major
How to study for and pass a test
Saving money as a college student
The story of how your school was founded
Ways of preventing college dropout
Whether binge drinking is a problem on your college campus
Your favorite club or organization on campus

5 Demonstration Informative Essay Topics

How to bake a cake
How to knit a scarf
How to organize a closet
How to swing a golf club
How to train your dog

7 Easy / Simple Informative Essay Topics

A genre of music
America’s fastest growing cities
Breeds of dogs
How a computer works
Interesting cultures
Lesser known presidents
Natural disasters

9 Education Informative Essay Topics

How to choose a persuasive speech topic
How to deliver a funny informative speech
How to deliver a persuasive speech
How to maintain audience attention during a speech
How to win your audience with descriptive speech
How to write a persuasive essay
How to write an argumentative essay
How to write an expository essay
The difference between a thesis statement and a topic sentence

10 Fun Informative Essay Topics

An impressive world record
Fun games to play at the beach.
The history of ice cream
The revolution of the selfie
Ways different cultures celebrate Valentine’s Day
What do people do when they win the lottery?
What people don’t know about Disneyland
What you can learn from grade K students
What your horoscope means
Why people get tattoos

6 Funny Informative Essay Topics

funny kitten portrait with smile on card

Everything you need to know about skinny jeans
Funny St. Patrick’s Day parades
How to be nice to people you don’t like
How to cheat in poker
How to look attentive when you’re actually not
Things you can learn from your pet

See this page for a full list of Funny Informative Speech Topics .

10 Health Informative Essay Topics

All about gluten
Cause-and-effect relationship of air pollution
Causes of cancer
How caffeine works
How stress affects your body
How to make exercise a habit
How to quit smoking
Symptoms of Alzheimer Disease
Symptoms of depression
How to get rid of bad habits

6 Hobbies Informative Essay Topics

Hand made scrapbooking post card and tools lying on a table

Best places for scuba diving
Choosing your next book to read
Peace lily care tips
Professional baseball stadiums
The history of your favorite sport
Types of tropical fish

9 Interesting Informative Essay Topics

Effects of global warming
Exotic pets
How to perform an attention-getting first dance at your wedding
Near-death experiences
Places to see in northern Nevada
The biography of Clyde Tombaugh
The history of a cliche marriage ritual
What is your dog actually thinking?
What your handwriting says about you

See this page for a full list of Informative Interesting Speech Topics .

7 Life Informative Essay Topics

How to drive a stick-shift
How to pay off your student loans in under 10 years
How to succeed in multi-level marketing
The process of buying a car
Tips for being an effective networker
Traveling the world for cheap
Why people lie

7 Legislation Informative Essay Topics

Fees and taxes for an electric car
Minimum wage laws
The history of drinking age rules
What dogs are affected by breed specific legislation?
Anti-trust crimes.
Benefits of pleading guilty.
Felony penalties for aggravated stalking.

See this page for a full list of Legal Speech Topics .

10 Pop Culture Informative Essay Topics

A biography of your favorite celebrity
All about your favorite author
All about your favorite television show
Former childhood stars
History of your favorite product brand
Instances where the movie is better than the book
The Miss America pageant
The pop art movement during the 20th century and the changes it brought about
What makes a pop sensation
Your favorite form of public broadcasting

7 Relationships Informative Essay Topics

How to be a good friend

How to choose your friends
How to get along with your in-laws
How to make a marriage work
How to survive a blind date gone wrong
The different types of friendships
The history of online dating

Picking Your Topic

At first glance, an informative speech may seem like the simplest type of presentation . The basis of an informative speech is to introduce a topic to the audience and then describe or explain it . It sounds fairly straightforward, but special care must be given to selecting a topic or the entire speech may not be well received.

Informative speeches can easily become boring for an audience for several reasons. First, the speaker should be sure not to present a topic which is already well known, or the audience will quickly lose interest. The topic should be something the audience has never encountered, or at least include new and exciting information on a familiar topic. Speakers should remember, when preparing the speech, that their own level of interest will become apparent during delivery of the presentation. In other words, if the speaker is bored by the topic, the audience will feel bored as well.

Knowing the audience is a primary factor in choosing an informative speech topic. The speaker should consider the age, knowledge level, subculture, and other demographics of his listeners when preparing the speech. It is important to present information which is neither too elementary nor too difficult for the audience to comprehend. The chosen topic should reflect the interests of the audience, and should be intriguing to them without rehashing information they already know. For example, college students may be interested in a topic on alcohol use, but they are already very familiar with a topic like the dangers of drinking and driving. In this case the speaker might concentrate his topic on the health benefits of red wine. This way, he has chosen a topic which interests the audience, but is likely to present new information which will not bore his listeners.

Finally, speakers should consider time limits when choosing an informative speech topic. A topic should be covered thoroughly enough that the audience feels as if most of their questions on the topic have been answered. On the other hand, a tight time restriction may prevent the speaker from adequately covering a very intricate topic. When time is limited, a subject which requires lengthy explanation should be avoided. The audience should leave an informative speech feeling as if they’ve gained new insight on a topic. It is good if they are interested in doing their own research to learn more about the subject, but they should never leave the presentation feeling confused or unclear about what they have just heard.

Informative Speech Idea In 5 Steps

1. step one – make a list.

Make a short list of your personal interests and informative speech topic ideas. To help you determine your interests on an informative speech topic, think about your favorite objects, products, people, animals, events, places, processes, procedures, concepts, policies, theories, and so on. Answer these important questions:

Is there something you love to talk about, always have wanted to research?
What interests you very much, or do you like or love at first glance?
Do you have developed special skills in personal or professional life?
What interesting informative topics do you know a lot of or want to know more about?
What are some personal or professional experiences and skills in certain situations related to your favorite subjects?
Can you reveal hidden secrets, new perspectives or insights on some topics?

2. Step Two – Analyze Your Audience

Determine the interests and needs of your audience. What do they want to learn? Can you teach them on a subject you like?

3. Step Three – Check Your Interests

Review the short list of your interests and make a decision. Choose the informative speech topic that is also interesting to your audience. Take care of their interests, questions and needs.

4. Step Four – Research and Write

Research just one new single aspect of that informative speech idea. Look for valuable or amazing information that surprises your listeners. Fresh data, facts, intelligence, and advice will catch their attention immediately! To help you researching: look for new facts, figures, stories, statistics, surveys, personal experiences, professional experiences, quotations, comparisons and contrasts.

5. Step Five – Add Help Props

Demonstrate steps, stages, pros and cons, and remarkable effects by the use of public speaking software or other visual aids , that display the material you want them to be understood or remembered.

Informative Speeches FAQ

1. Speeches About Objects 2. Speeches About Processes 3. Speeches About Events 4. Speeches About Concepts

An informative speech is one that provides information and educates the audience on a specific topic. An informative speech should help your audience learn, understand, and remember information you are presenting.

1. Know your audience or reader 2. Consider your interests 3. Consider length requirements

You can see this page with speech examples .

Vote of Thanks Examples

613 Original Argumentative Speech Topics Ideas

15 thoughts on “509 Informative Speech Ideas and Topics”

Demonic Possession

Creativity is the Mother of Invention.

1-How to be a good friend: you have to do everything to make them happy, don’t snatch on them

2-How to choose your friends: Choose friends with similar values Choose friends with common goals

3-How to get along with your in-laws:1-Get to know them. … 2-Know your limits. … 3-Keep things cordial. … 4-Put your relationship first

4-How to make a marriage work

5-How to survive a blind date gone wrong 1-Ask open-ended questions. … 2-Tell a funny anecdote. … 3-Let your date talk. … 4-Answer questions fully. … 5-Listen to them carefully.

6-The different types of friendships

7-The history of online dating

the evolution of humans

school doesn’t need to exist

Nice compilations this is helpful

Hamburgers vs hotdogs

Chocolate Caffeine Grass is Greener on the other side April Fools Why teens should have a part time job or not

History of Tobacco

Effects of anxiety on teenage students.

how depression affects people and others around them

peer pressure and its effects on students

Different ways kids handle peer pressure.

depression and how it can effect a students mindset

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The Crackdown on Student Protesters

Columbia university is at the center of a growing showdown over the war in gaza and the limits of free speech..

This transcript was created using speech recognition software. While it has been reviewed by human transcribers, it may contain errors. Please review the episode audio before quoting from this transcript and email [email protected] with any questions.

[TRAIN SCREECHING]

Well, you can hear the helicopter circling. This is Asthaa Chaturvedi. I’m a producer with “The Daily.” Just walked out of the 116 Street Station. It’s the main station for Columbia’s Morningside Heights campus. And it’s day seven of the Gaza solidarity encampment, where a hundred students were arrested last Thursday.

So on one side of Broadway, you see camera crews. You see NYPD officers all lined up. There’s barricades, steel barricades, caution tape. This is normally a completely open campus. And I’m able to — all members of the public, you’re able to walk through.

[NON-ENGLISH SPEECH]

Looks like international media is here.

Have your IDs out. Have your IDs out.

Students lining up to swipe in to get access to the University. ID required for entry.

Swipe your ID, please.

Hi, how are you, officer? We’re journalists with “The New York Times.”

You’re not going to get in, all right? I’m sorry.

Hi. Can I help please?

Yeah, it’s total lockdown here at Columbia.

Please have your IDs out ready to swipe.

From “The New York Times,” I’m Michael Barbaro. This is “The Daily.” Today, the story of how Columbia University has become the epicenter of a growing showdown between student protesters, college administrators, and Congress over the war in Gaza and the limits of free speech. I spoke with my colleague, Nick Fandos.

[UPBEAT MUSIC]

It’s Thursday, April 25.

Nick, if we rewind the clock a few months, we end up at a moment where students at several of the country’s best known universities are protesting Israel’s response to the October 7 attacks, its approach to a war in Gaza. At times, those protests are happening peacefully, at times with rhetoric that is inflammatory. And the result is that the leaders of those universities land before Congress. But the president of Columbia University, which is the subject we’re going to be talking about today, is not one of the leaders who shows up for that testimony.

That’s right. So the House Education Committee has been watching all these protests on campus. And the Republican Chairwoman decides, I’m going to open an investigation, look at how these administrations are handling it, because it doesn’t look good from where I sit. And the House last winter invites the leaders of several of these elite schools, Harvard, Penn, MIT, and Columbia, to come and testify in Washington on Capitol Hill before Congress.

Now, the President of Columbia has what turns out to be a very well-timed, pre-planned trip to go overseas and speak at an international climate conference. So Minouche Shafik isn’t going to be there. So instead, the presidents of Harvard, and Penn, and MIT show up. And it turned out to be a disaster for these universities.

They were asked very pointed questions about the kind of speech taking place on their campuses, and they gave really convoluted academic answers back that just baffled the committee. But there was one question that really embodied the kind of disconnect between the Committee — And it wasn’t just Republicans, Republicans and Democrats on the Committee — and these college presidents. And that’s when they were asked a hypothetical.

Does calling for the genocide of Jews violate Penn’s rules or code of conduct? Yes or no?

If the speech turns into conduct, it can be harassment.

And two of the presidents, Claudine Gay of Harvard and Elizabeth Magill of the University of Pennsylvania, they’re unwilling to say in this really kind of intense back and forth that this speech would constitute a violation of their rules.

It can be, depending on the context.

What’s the context?

Targeted at an individual. Is it pervasive?

It’s targeted at Jewish students, Jewish individuals. Do you understand your testimony is dehumanizing them?

And it sets off a firestorm.

It does not depend on the context. The answer is yes. And this is why you should resign. These are unacceptable answers across the board.

Members of Congress start calling for their resignations. Alumni are really, really ticked off. Trustees of the University start to wonder, I don’t know that these leaders really have got this under control. And eventually, both of them lose their jobs in a really high profile way.

Right. And as you’ve hinted at, for somewhat peculiar scheduling reasons, Columbia’s President escapes this disaster of a hearing in what has to be regarded as the best timing in the history of the American Academy.

Yeah, exactly. And Columbia is watching all this play out. And I think their first response was relief that she was not in that chair, but also a recognition that, sooner or later, their turn was going to come back around and they were going to have to sit before Congress.

Why were they so certain that they would probably end up before Congress and that this wasn’t a case of completely dodging a bullet?

Well, they remain under investigation by the committee. But also, as the winter wears on, all the same intense protests just continue unabated. So in many ways, Columbia’s like these other campuses. But in some ways, it’s even more intense. This is a university that has both one of the largest Jewish student populations of any of its peers. But it also has a large Arab and Muslim student population, a big Middle Eastern studies program. It has a dual degree program in Tel Aviv.

And it’s a university on top of all that that has a real history of activism dating back to the 1960s. So when students are recruited or choose to come to Columbia, they’re actively opting into a campus that prides itself on being an activist community. It’s in the middle of New York City. It’s a global place. They consider the city and the world, really, like a classroom to Columbia.

In other words, if any campus was going to be a hotbed of protest and debate over this conflict, it was going to be Columbia University.

Exactly. And when this spring rolls around, the stars finally align. And the same congressional committee issues another invitation to Minouche Shafik, Columbia’s President, to come and testify. And this time, she has no excuse to say no.

But presumably, she is well aware of exactly what testifying before this committee entails and is highly prepared.

Columbia knew this moment was coming. They spent months preparing for this hearing. They brought in outside consultants, crisis communicators, experts on anti-Semitism. The weekend before the hearing, she actually travels down to Washington to hole up in a war room, where she starts preparing her testimony with mock questioners and testy exchanges to prep her for this. And she’s very clear on what she wants to try to do.

Where her counterparts had gone before the committee a few months before and looked aloof, she wanted to project humility and competence, to say, I know that there’s an issue on my campus right now with some of these protests veering off into anti-Semitic incidents. But I’m getting that under control. I’m taking steps in good faith to make sure that we restore order to this campus, while allowing people to express themselves freely as well.

So then the day of her actual testimony arrives. And just walk us through how it goes.

The Committee on Education and Workforce will come to order. I note that —

So Wednesday morning rolls around. And President Shafik sits at the witness stand with two of her trustees and the head of Columbia’s new anti-Semitism task force.

Columbia stands guilty of gross negligence at best and at worst has become a platform for those supporting terrorism and violence against the Jewish people.

And right off the bat, they’re put through a pretty humbling litany of some of the worst hits of what’s been happening on campus.

For example, just four days after the harrowing October 7 attack, a former Columbia undergraduate beat an Israeli student with a stick.

The Republican Chairwoman of the Committee, Virginia Foxx, starts reminding her that there was a student who was actually hit with a stick on campus. There was another gathering more recently glorifying Hamas and other terrorist organizations, and the kind of chants that have become an everyday chorus on campus, which many Jewish students see as threatening. But when the questioning starts, President Shafik is ready. One of the first ones she gets is the one that tripped up her colleagues.

Does calling for the genocide of Jews violate Columbia’s code of conduct, Mr. Greenwald?

And she answers unequivocally.

Dr. Shafik?

Yes, it does.

And, Professor —

That would be a violation of Columbia’s rules. They would be punished.

As President of Columbia, what is it like when you hear chants like, by any means necessary or Intifada Revolution?

I find those chants incredibly distressing. And I wish profoundly that people would not use them on our campus.

And in some of the most interesting exchanges of the hearing, President Shafik actually opens Columbia’s disciplinary books.

We have already suspended 15 students from Columbia. We have six on disciplinary probation. These are more disciplinary actions that have been taken probably in the last decade at Columbia. And —

She talks about the number of students that have been suspended, but also the number of faculty that she’s had removed from the classroom that are being investigated for comments that either violate some of Columbia’s rules or make students uncomfortable. One case in particular really underscores this.

And that’s of a Middle Eastern studies professor named Joseph Massad. He wrote an essay not long after Hamas invaded Israel and killed 1,200 people, according to the Israeli government, where he described that attack with adjectives like awesome. Now, he said they’ve been misinterpreted, but a lot of people have taken offense to those comments.

Ms. Stefanik, you’re recognized for five minutes.

Thank you, Chairwoman. I want to follow up on my colleague, Rep Walberg’s question regarding Professor Joseph Massad. So let me be clear, President —

And so Representative Elise Stefanik, the same Republican who had tripped up Claudine Gay of Harvard and others in the last hearing, really starts digging in to President Shafik about these things at Columbia.

He is still Chair on the website. So has he been terminated as Chair?

Congresswoman, I —

And Shafik’s answers are maybe a little surprising.

— before getting back to you. I can confirm —

I know you confirmed that he was under investigation.

Yes, I can confirm that. But I —

Did you confirm he was still the Chair?

He says that Columbia is taking his case seriously. In fact, he’s under investigation right now.

Well, let me ask you this.

I need to check.

Will you make the commitment to remove him as Chair?

And when Stefanik presses her to commit to removing him from a campus leadership position —

I think that would be — I think — I would — yes. Let me come back with yes. But I think I — I just want to confirm his current status before I write —

We’ll take that as a yes, that you will confirm that he will no longer be chair.

Shafik seems to pause and think and then agree to it on the spot, almost like she is making administrative decisions with or in front of Congress.

Now, we did some reporting after the fact. And it turns out the Professor didn’t even realize he was under investigation. So he’s learning about this from the hearing too. So what this all adds up to, I think, is a performance so in line with what the lawmakers themselves wanted to hear, that at certain points, these Republicans didn’t quite know what to do with it. They were like the dog that caught the car.

Columbia beats Harvard and UPenn.

One of them, a Republican from Florida, I think at one point even marvelled, well, you beat Harvard and Penn.

Y’all all have done something that they weren’t able to do. You’ve been able to condemn anti-Semitism without using the phrase, it depends on the context. But the —

So Columbia’s president has passed this test before this committee.

Yeah, this big moment that tripped up her predecessors and cost them their jobs, it seems like she has cleared that hurdle and dispatched with the Congressional committee that could have been one of the biggest threats to her presidency.

Without objection, there being no further business, the committee stands adjourned. [BANGS GAVEL]

But back on campus, some of the students and faculty who had been watching the hearing came away with a very different set of conclusions. They saw a president who was so eager to please Republicans in Congress that she was willing to sell out some of the University’s students and faculty and trample on cherished ideas like academic freedom and freedom of expression that have been a bedrock of American higher education for a really long time.

And there was no clearer embodiment of that than what had happened that morning just as President Shafik was going to testify before Congress. A group of students before dawn set up tents in the middle of Columbia’s campus and declared themselves a pro-Palestinian encampment in open defiance of the very rules that Dr. Shafik had put in place to try and get these protests under control.

So these students in real-time are beginning to test some of the things that Columbia’s president has just said before Congress.

Exactly. And so instead of going to celebrate her successful appearance before Congress, Shafik walks out of the hearing room and gets in a black SUV to go right back to that war room, where she’s immediately confronted with a major dilemma. It basically boils down to this, she had just gone before Congress and told them, I’m going to get tough on these protests. And here they were. So either she gets tough and risks inflaming tension on campus or she holds back and does nothing and her words before Congress immediately look hollow.

And what does she decide?

So for the next 24 hours, she tries to negotiate off ramps. She consults with her Deans and the New York Police Department. And it all builds towards an incredibly consequential decision. And that is, for the first time in decades, to call the New York City Police Department onto campus in riot gear and break this thing up, suspend the students involved, and then arrest them.

To essentially eliminate this encampment.

Eliminate the encampment and send a message, this is not going to be tolerated. But in trying to quell the unrest, Shafik actually feeds it. She ends up leaving student protesters and the faculty who support them feeling betrayed and pushes a campus that was already on edge into a full blown crisis.

[SLOW TEMPO MUSIC]

After the break, what all of this has looked like to a student on Columbia’s campus. We’ll be right back.

[PHONE RINGS]

Is this Isabella?

Yes, this is she.

Hi, Isabella. It’s Michael Barbaro from “The Daily.”

Hi. Nice to meet you.

Earlier this week, we called Isabella Ramírez, the Editor in Chief of Columbia’s undergraduate newspaper, “The Columbia Daily Spectator,” which has been closely tracking both the protests and the University’s response to them since October 7.

So, I mean, in your mind, how do we get to this point? I wonder if you can just briefly describe the key moments that bring us to where we are right now.

Sure. Since October 7, there has certainly been constant escalation in terms of tension on campus. And there have been a variety of moves that I believe have distanced the student body, the faculty, from the University and its administration, specifically the suspension of Columbia’s chapters of Students for Justice in Palestine and Jewish Voice for Peace. And that became a huge moment in what was characterized as suppression of pro-Palestinian activism on campus, effectively rendering those groups, quote, unquote, unauthorized.

What was the college’s explanation for that?

They had cited in that suspension a policy which states that a demonstration must be approved within a certain window, and that there must be an advance notice, and that there’s a process for getting an authorized demonstration. But the primary point was this policy that they were referring to, which we later reported, was changed before the suspension.

So it felt a little ad hoc to people?

Yes, it certainly came as a surprise, especially at “Spectator.” We’re nerds of the University in the sense that we are familiar with faculty and University governance. But even to us, we had no idea where this policy was coming from. And this suspension was really the first time that it entered most students’ sphere.

Columbia’s campus is so known for its activism. And so in my time of being a reporter, of being an editor, I’ve overseen several protests. And I’ve never seen Columbia penalize a group for, quote, unquote, not authorizing a protest. So that was certainly, in our minds, unprecedented.

And I believe part of the justification there was, well, this is a different time. And I think that is a reasonable thing to say. But I think a lot of students, they felt it was particularly one-sided, that it was targeting a specific type of speech or a specific type of viewpoint. Although, the University, of course, in its explicit policies, did not outline, and was actually very explicit about not targeting specific viewpoints —

So just to be super clear, it felt to students — and it sounds like, journalistically, it felt to you — that the University was coming down in a uniquely one-sided way against students who were supporting Palestinian rights and may have expressed some frustrations with Israel in that moment.

Yes. Certainly —

Isabella says that this was just the beginning of a really tense period between student protesters and the University. After those two student groups were suspended, campus protests continued. Students made a variety of demands. They asked that the University divest from businesses that profit from Israel’s military operations in Gaza. But instead of making any progress, the protests are met with further crackdown by the University.

And so as Isabella and her colleagues at the college newspaper see it, there’s this overall chilling effect that occurs. Some students become fearful that if they participate in any demonstrations, they’re going to face disciplinary action. So fast forward now to April, when these student protesters learned that President Shafik is headed to Washington for her congressional testimony. It’s at this moment that they set out to build their encampment.

I think there was obviously a lot of intention in timing those two things. I think it’s inherently a critique on a political pressure and this congressional pressure that we saw build up against, of course, Claudine Gay at Harvard and Magill at UPenn. So I think a lot of students and faculty have been frustrated at this idea that there are not only powers at the University that are dictating what’s happening, but there are perhaps external powers that are also guiding the way here in terms of what the University feels like it must do or has to do.

And I think that timing was super crucial. Having the encampment happen on the Wednesday morning of the hearing was an incredible, in some senses, interesting strategy to direct eyes to different places.

All eyes were going to be on Shafik in DC. But now a lot of eyes are on New York. The encampment is set up in the middle of the night slash morning, prior to the hearing. And so what effectively happens is they caught Shafik when she wasn’t on campus, when a lot of senior administration had their resources dedicated to supporting Shafik in DC.

And you have all of those people not necessarily out of commission, but with their focus elsewhere. So the encampment is met with very little resistance at the beginning. There were public safety officers floating around and watching. But at the very beginning hours, I think there was a sense of, we did it.

[CHANTING]: Disclose! Divest! We will not stop! We will not rest. Disclose! Divest! We will not stop!

It would be quite surprising to anybody and an administrator to now suddenly see dozens of tents on this lawn in a way that I think very purposely puts an imagery of, we’re here to stay. As the morning evolved and congressional hearings continued —

Minouche Shafik, open your eyes! Use of force, genocide!

Then we started seeing University delegates that were coming to the encampment saying, you may face disciplinary action for continuing to be here. I think that started around almost — like 9:00 or 10:00 AM, they started handing out these code of conduct violation notices.

Hell no! Hell no! Hell no!

Then there started to be more public safety action and presence. So they started barricading the entrances. The day progressed, there was more threat of discipline. The students became informed that if they continue to stay, they will face potential academic sanctions, potential suspension.

The more they try to silence us, the louder we will be! The more they —

I think a lot of people were like, OK, you’re threatening us with suspension. But so what?

This is about these systems that Minouche Shafik, that the Board of Trustees, that Columbia University is complicit in.

What are you going to do to try to get us out of here? And that was, obviously, promptly answered.

This is the New York State Police Department.

We will not stop!

You are attempting participate in an unauthorized encampment. You will be arrested and charged with trespassing.

My phone blew up, obviously, from the reporters, from the editors, of saying, oh my god, the NYPD is on our campus. And as soon as I saw that, I came out. And I saw a huge crowd of students and affiliates on campus watching the lawns. And as I circled around that crowd, I saw the last end of the New York Police Department pulling away protesters and clearing out the last of the encampment.

[CHANTING]: We love you! We will get justice for you! We see you! We love you! We will get justice for you! We see you! We love you! We will get justice for you! We see you! We love you! We will get justice for you!

It was something truly unimaginable, over 100 students slash other individuals are arrested from our campus, forcefully removed. And although they were suspended, there was a feeling of traumatic event that has just happened to these students, but also this sense of like, OK, the worst of the worst that could have happened to us just happened.

And for those students who maybe couldn’t go back to — into campus, now all of their peers, who were supporters or are in solidarity, are — in some sense, it’s further emboldened. They’re now not just sitting on the lawns for a pro-Palestinian cause, but also for the students, who have endured quite a lot.

So the crackdown, sought by the president and enforced by the NYPD, ends up, you’re saying, becoming a galvanizing force for a broader group of Columbia students than were originally drawn to the idea of ever showing up on the center of campus and protesting?

Yeah, I can certainly speak to the fact that I’ve seen my own peers, friends, or even acquaintances, who weren’t necessarily previously very involved in activism and organizing efforts, suddenly finding themselves involved.

Can I — I just have a question for you, which is all journalism, student journalism or not student journalism, is a first draft of history. And I wonder if we think of this as a historic moment for Columbia, how you imagine it’s going to be remembered.

Yeah, there is no doubt in my mind that this will be a historic moment for Colombia.

I think that this will be remembered as a moment in which the fractures were laid bare. Really, we got to see some of the disunity of the community in ways that I have never really seen it before. And what we’ll be looking to is, where do we go from here? How does Colombia repair? How do we heal from all of this? so That is the big question in terms of what will happen.

Nick, Isabella Ramírez just walked us through what this has all looked like from the perspective of a Columbia student. And from what she could tell, the crackdown ordered by President Shafik did not quell much of anything. It seemed, instead, to really intensify everything on campus. I’m curious what this has looked like for Shafik.

It’s not just the students who are upset. You have faculty, including professors, who are not necessarily sympathetic to the protesters’ view of the war, who are really outraged about what Shafik has done here. They feel that she’s crossed a boundary that hasn’t been crossed on Columbia’s campus in a really long time.

And so you start to hear things by the end of last week like censure, no confidence votes, questions from her own professors about whether or not she can stay in power. So this creates a whole new front for her. And on top of it all, as this is going on, the encampment itself starts to reform tent-by-tent —

— almost in the same place that it was. And Shafik decides that the most important thing she could do is to try and take the temperature down, which means letting the encampment stand. Or in other words, leaning in the other direction. This time, we’re going to let the protesters have their say for a little while longer.

The problem with that is that, over the weekend, a series of images start to emerge from on campus and just off of it of some really troubling anti-Semitic episodes. In one case, a guy holds up a poster in the middle of campus and points it towards a group of Jewish students who are counter protesting. And it says, I’m paraphrasing here, Hamas’ next targets.

I saw an image of that. What it seemed to evoke was the message that Hamas should murder those Jewish students. That’s the way the Jewish students interpreted it.

It’s a pretty straightforward and jarring statement. At the same time, just outside of Columbia’s closed gates —

Stop killing children!

— protestors are showing up from across New York City. It’s hard to tell who’s affiliated with Columbia, who’s not.

Go back to Poland! Go back to Poland!

There’s a video that goes viral of one of them shouting at Jewish students, go back to Poland, go back to Europe.

In other words, a clear message, you’re not welcome here.

Right. In fact, go back to the places where the Holocaust was committed.

Exactly. And this is not representative of the vast majority of the protesters in the encampment, who mostly had been peaceful. They would later hold a Seder, actually, with some of the pro-Palestinian Jewish protesters in their ranks. But those videos are reaching members of Congress, the very same Republicans that Shafik had testified in front of just a few days before. And now they’re looking and saying, you have lost control of your campus, you’ve turned back on your word to us, and you need to resign.

They call for her outright resignation over this.

That’s right. Republicans in New York and across the country began to call for her to step down from her position as president of Columbia.

So Shafik’s dilemma here is pretty extraordinary. She has set up this dynamic where pleasing these members of Congress would probably mean calling in the NYPD all over again to sweep out this encampment, which would mean further alienating and inflaming students and faculty, who are still very upset over the first crackdown. And now both ends of this spectrum, lawmakers in Washington, folks on the Columbia campus, are saying she can’t lead the University over this situation before she’s even made any fateful decision about what to do with this second encampment. Not a good situation.

No. She’s besieged on all sides. For a while, the only thing that she can come up with to offer is for classes to go hybrid for the remainder of the semester.

So students who aren’t feeling safe in this protest environment don’t necessarily have to go to class.

Right. And I think if we zoom out for a second, it’s worth bearing in mind that she tried to choose a different path here than her counterparts at Harvard or Penn. And after all of this, she’s kind of ended up in the exact same thicket, with people calling for her job with the White House, the Mayor of New York City, and others. These are Democrats. Maybe not calling on her to resign quite yet, but saying, I don’t know what’s going on your campus. This does not look good.

That reality, that taking a different tack that was supposed to be full of learnings and lessons from the stumbles of her peers, the fact that didn’t really work suggests that there’s something really intractable going on here. And I wonder how you’re thinking about this intractable situation that’s now arrived on these college campuses.

Well, I don’t think it’s just limited to college campuses. We have seen intense feelings about this conflict play out in Hollywood. We’ve seen them in our politics in all kinds of interesting ways.

In our media.

We’ve seen it in the media. But college campuses, at least in their most idealized form, are something special. They’re a place where students get to go for four years to think in big ways about moral questions, and political questions, and ideas that help shape the world they’re going to spend the rest of their lives in.

And so when you have a question that feels as urgent as this war does for a lot of people, I think it reverberates in an incredibly intense way on those campuses. And there’s something like — I don’t know if it’s quite a contradiction of terms, but there’s a collision of different values at stake. So universities thrive on the ability of students to follow their minds and their voices where they go, to maybe even experiment a little bit and find those things.

But there are also communities that rely on people being able to trust each other and being able to carry out their classes and their academic endeavors as a collective so they can learn from one another. So in this case, that’s all getting scrambled. Students who feel strongly about the Palestinian cause feel like the point is disruption, that something so big, and immediate, and urgent is happening that they need to get in the faces of their professors, and their administrators, and their fellow students.

Right. And set up an encampment in the middle of campus, no matter what the rules say.

Right. And from the administration’s perspective, they say, well, yeah, you can say that and you can think that. And that’s an important process. But maybe there’s some bad apples in your ranks. Or though you may have good intentions, you’re saying things that you don’t realize the implications of. And they’re making this environment unsafe for others. Or they’re grinding our classes to a halt and we’re not able to function as a University.

So the only way we’re going to be able to move forward is if you will respect our rules and we’ll respect your point of view. The problem is that’s just not happening. Something is not connecting with those two points of view. And as if that’s not hard enough, you then have Congress and the political system with its own agenda coming in and putting its thumb on a scale of an already very difficult situation.

Right. And at this very moment, what we know is that the forces that you just outlined have created a dilemma, an uncertainty of how to proceed, not just for President Shafik and the students and faculty at Columbia, but for a growing number of colleges and universities across the country. And by that, I mean, this thing that seemed to start at Columbia is literally spreading.

Absolutely. We’re talking on a Wednesday afternoon. And these encampments have now started cropping up at universities from coast-to-coast, at Harvard and Yale, but also at University of California, at the University of Texas, at smaller campuses in between. And at each of these institutions, there’s presidents and deans, just like President Shafik at Columbia, who are facing a really difficult set of choices. Do they call in the police? The University of Texas in Austin this afternoon, we saw protesters physically clashing with police.

Do they hold back, like at Harvard, where there were dramatic videos of students literally running into Harvard yard with tents. They were popping up in real-time. And so Columbia, really, I think, at the end of the day, may have kicked off some of this. But they are now in league with a whole bunch of other universities that are struggling with the same set of questions. And it’s a set of questions that they’ve had since this war broke out.

And now these schools only have a week or two left of classes. But we don’t know when these standoffs are going to end. We don’t know if students are going to leave campus for the summer. We don’t know if they’re going to come back in the fall and start protesting right away, or if this year is going to turn out to have been an aberration that was a response to a really awful, bloody war, or if we’re at the beginning of a bigger shift on college campuses that will long outlast this war in the Middle East.

Well, Nick, thank you very much. Thanks for having me, Michael.

We’ll be right back.

Here’s what else you need to know today. The United Nations is calling for an independent investigation into two mass graves found after Israeli forces withdrew from hospitals in Gaza. Officials in Gaza said that some of the bodies found in the graves were Palestinians who had been handcuffed or shot in the head and accused Israel of killing and burying them. In response, Israel said that its soldiers had exhumed bodies in one of the graves as part of an effort to locate Israeli hostages.

And on Wednesday, Hamas released a video of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, an Israeli-American dual citizen, whom Hamas has held hostage since October 7. It was the first time that he has been shown alive since his captivity began. His kidnapping was the subject of a “Daily” episode in October that featured his mother, Rachel. In response to Hamas’s video, Rachel issued a video of her own, in which she spoke directly to her son.

And, Hersh, if you can hear this, we heard your voice today for the first time in 201 days. And if you can hear us, I am telling you, we are telling you, we love you. Stay strong. Survive.

Today’s episode was produced by Sydney Harper, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Olivia Natt, Nina Feldman, and Summer Thomad, with help from Michael Simon Johnson. It was edited by Devon Taylor and Lisa Chow, contains research help by Susan Lee, original music by Marion Lozano and Dan Powell, and was engineered by Chris Wood. Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. That’s it for “The Daily.” I’m Michael Barbaro. See you tomorrow.

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April 25, 2024 • 40:33 The Crackdown on Student Protesters
April 24, 2024 • 32:18 Is $60 Billion Enough to Save Ukraine?
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April 22, 2024 • 24:30 The Evolving Danger of the New Bird Flu
April 19, 2024 • 30:42 The Supreme Court Takes Up Homelessness
April 18, 2024 • 30:07 The Opening Days of Trump’s First Criminal Trial
April 17, 2024 • 24:52 Are ‘Forever Chemicals’ a Forever Problem?
April 16, 2024 • 29:29 A.I.’s Original Sin
April 15, 2024 • 24:07 Iran’s Unprecedented Attack on Israel
April 14, 2024 • 46:17 The Sunday Read: ‘What I Saw Working at The National Enquirer During Donald Trump’s Rise’
April 12, 2024 • 34:23 How One Family Lost $900,000 in a Timeshare Scam

Hosted by Michael Barbaro

Featuring Nicholas Fandos

Produced by Sydney Harper , Asthaa Chaturvedi , Olivia Natt , Nina Feldman and Summer Thomad

With Michael Simon Johnson

Edited by Devon Taylor and Lisa Chow

Original music by Marion Lozano and Dan Powell

Engineered by Chris Wood

Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music

Columbia University has become the epicenter of a growing showdown between student protesters, college administrators and Congress over the war in Gaza and the limits of free speech.

Nicholas Fandos, who covers New York politics and government for The Times, walks us through the intense week at the university. And Isabella Ramírez, the editor in chief of Columbia’s undergraduate newspaper, explains what it has all looked like to a student on campus.

On today’s episode

Nicholas Fandos , who covers New York politics and government for The New York Times

Isabella Ramírez , editor in chief of The Columbia Daily Spectator

A university building during the early morning hours. Tents are set up on the front lawn. Banners are displayed on the hedges.

Background reading

Inside the week that shook Columbia University .

The protests at the university continued after more than 100 arrests.

There are a lot of ways to listen to The Daily. Here’s how.

We aim to make transcripts available the next workday after an episode’s publication. You can find them at the top of the page.

Research help by Susan Lee .

The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Dan Farrell, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Sam Dolnick, Paula Szuchman, Lisa Tobin, Larissa Anderson, Julia Simon, Sofia Milan, Mahima Chablani, Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Jeffrey Miranda, Renan Borelli, Maddy Masiello, Isabella Anderson and Nina Lassam.

Nicholas Fandos is a Times reporter covering New York politics and government. More about Nicholas Fandos

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English Speech Topics for Students

Updated on
Apr 2, 2024

Writing an exciting and thoughtful speech requires selecting a good topic, researching it thoroughly, and forming individual opinions to express the same. School students are usually asked to speak on a contemporary topic to help them become good public speakers as well as learn the art of expressing oneself in front of an audience. While many speech competitions often allot topics beforehand, you might also have heard of extempore where topics are given on the spot for speech. This blog brings you a list of common English speech topics as well as some helpful tips and tricks that can assist you in effectively expressing your thoughts and opinions in front of an audience. Let’s begin!

Checkout our 200+ Essay Topics for Students in English

List of Best English Speech Topics for Students

Speeches are all about one’s thoughts. It should not be copied from somewhere. It is all about what the speaker thinks of any given topic. However, take a look at the following list of English Speech topics on different contemporary issues as well as concepts.

1-minute Speech Topics

The Best Day of My Life
Social Media: Bane or Boon?
Pros and Cons of Online Learning
Benefits of Yoga
If I had a Superpower
I wish I were ______
Human Rights
Environment Conservation
Women Should Rule the World!
The Best Lesson I Have Learned
Paperbacks vs E-books
How to Tackle a Bad Habit
My Favorite Pastime/Hobby
Why should every citizen vote?
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Is it real or not?
Importance of Reading
Importance of Books in Our Life
My Favorite Fictional Character
Introverts vs Extroverts
Lessons to Learn from Sports
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder

Quick Read: English Speaking Books

Quick Read: Essay on Peer Pressure

Quick Read: Essay on Health and Fitness for Students

2-Minute Speech Topics

I mportance of Kindness
Is there Value in Homework?
Things I learned in Lockdown
How can food be recycled?
Should Art be a part of the school curriculum?
Should schools teach sign language?
Women make better presidents/prime ministers
Why books are better than movies?
Life was better when technology was simple
Impact of technology on our health
Should children’s reality shows be banned?
Learning in the Wake of COVID-19
Hard Work vs Smart Work
What Makes Learning Fun?
The Coolest Inventions You’ve Seen
Nuclear Energy
Importance of AI in Education
Importance of Extracurricular Activities
Should exams be banned?
How to Tackle Bullying in Schools?

3-Minute Speech Topics

Speech about dreams
Speech about life
Speech on time
Speech on discipline
Speech on happiness
Speech on kindness
Speech on value of time
Speech on health and fitness
Speech on Doctor
Speech on Nurse
Graduation Day Speech
World Health Day Speech
Sex Education Speech

Easy Topics for Speech in English

Importance of Education
Is it beneficial to learn a Second Language?
Music has healing power
Success in life
Self Confidence
18th birthday
Love is more powerful than hate
Social Impact of Covid-19
How can Online Learning be Fun?
Make Public Transport Free
Should violent video games be banned?
Speech on Learning

Exploring English Speech Topics? You must also take a look at Extempore Topics !

English Speech Topics on Environment

Climate Change
Ozone Layer Depletion
Reducing Water Levels
Deforestation
Global Warming
Waste Management
Water-Saving Techniques
Reducing the Green Cover of Earth
Endangered species need protection
Importance of fishing regulations
Importance of investing in alternative fuels
Impact of ocean acidification on marine organisms
The misuse of the term “sustainable development” by environmentalists
Microbial benefits
E-Waste Management
Natural Disasters and their impact on economic growth
Energy alternatives – Only solution to the environmental damage
Extinction of rare species
World Environment Day
Disaster Management
Over and Improper Use of Natural Resources
Air, Water and Soil Pollution
Efficiency of Recycling

Also Read: How to Write Dialogue: Format, Tips and Examples

English Speech Topics on Technology

Technology and Mental Health
Privacy in the Digital Age: Navigating the Challenges of Data Collection and Surveillance
The Impact of Technology on Society
Artificial Intelligence: The New Normal
The Role of Social Media in Communication and Social Interactions
Sustainable Technology: Innovations for a Greener Future
The Rise of E-commerce
Gaming Technology: Entertainment, ESports and Interactive Experiences
The Digital Divide: Bridging the Gap for Equal Access to Technology
The Ethical Dilemmas of Emerging Technologies

Also Read: English Vocabulary: Meaning, Types, Tips to Improve

English Speech Topics on Independence Day

The Journey of Independence Day
The Significance of Independence Day
Indian Independence Day
Remembering the Founding Fathers
The Spirit of Independence
Independence Day and Volunteering
Independence Day Speeches
India’s Road to Freedom
Independence Day and National Identity
Independence Day in the Digital Age
Independence Day and Women’s Empowerment

English Speech Topics on Diwali

Diwali: The Festival of Lights and Its Significance in Hindu Culture
Diwali and the Victory of Good Over Evil
Diwali and the Art of Giving
Diwali and the Spirit of Forgiveness
Diwali and Cultural Exchanges
Diwali and the Essence of Joy
Diwali and Social Responsibility
Diwali and Artistic Expressions
The Rituals and Traditions of Diwali
Diwali and the Symbolism of Light

English Speech Topics on Corruption

The Economic Consequence of Corruption
Corruption and International Aid
Media and Corruption
Fighting Corruption
Corruption in Politics
The Role of Transparency and Accountability in Curbing Corruption
The Role of Technology in Combating Corruption
Whistleblowing and Protecting Mechanism
Corruption in Business and Corporate Practices

English Speech Topics on Feminism

Understanding Feminism
The Future of Feminism
Feminism and Parenting
Feminism and Online Activism
Feminism and Environmental Activism
Feminism and Reproductive Rights
The Gender Pay Gap: Examining Inequalities in the Workplace
Feminism and its Evolution
Feminism and Body Positivity
Feminism and Media Representation: Encouraging Authentic and Diverse Portrayals of Women

English Speech Topics on Mother’s Day

Expressing Gratitude and Love to Mothers
The Influence of Mothers in Shaping Our Values and Beliefs
Motherhood and Education
Mother’s Day and Volunteerism
Mother-Daughter Relationship
The Role of Mothers in Shaping Society
Mother’s Day Crafts and DIY Gifts
Learned Lessons from Mothers
Mother’s Day Around the World: Cultural Traditions and Celebrations

English Speaking Topics on Capitalism

Capitalism: An Introduction to the Economic System and its Principles
The Future of Capitalism
Pros and Cons of Capitalism
Capitalism and Globalisation
Capitalism and Consumerism
Capitalism and Financial Crisis: Undertaking the Risk and Mitigation Measures
Capitalism and Environmental Sustainability
Capitalism and the Role of Government
Corporate Social Responsibility in Capitalism
Capitalism and the Digital Economy

Engish Speech Topics on Gandhi Jayanti

Mahatma Gandhi: The Father of the Nation and His Ideals
Remembering Gandhi: Reflecting On His Life and Legacy
Gandhi’s Influence on the Indian Independence Movement
Satyagraha: The Power of Truth and Nonviolent Resistance
Gandhi’s Philosophy of Swaraj
The Role of Women in Gandhi’s Freedom Struggle
Gandhi’s Teaching on Education and Moral Values
Gandhi’s Lasting Legacy
Gandhi’s Vision for a Just and Inclusive Society
The Relevance of Gandhi’s Principles in Today’s World

English Speech Topics on Reading

The Influence of Reading on Emotional Intelligence and Empathy
Reading and Mental Health
Benefits of Reading
Reading and Empowerment
The Role of Reading in Academic Success and Lifelong Learning
Promoting a Reading Culture: Encouraging Reading Habits in Society
Reading Biographies and Memoirs
Reading and Social Connections
The Joy of Reading: Escaping Into the Different Worlds and Characters
Reading and Personal Identity

English Speech Topics on Communism

The Current State of Communism
Communism: An Introduction to the Ideology and Its Historical Context
The Evolution of Communist Movements
The Role of the State in a Communist Society
The Fall of Communist Regimes
Communism and Religious Freedom
Communism and Gender Equality
Communism and Workers’ Rights
The Criticisms of Communism

English Speech Topics on Deforestation

Deforestation: Causes, Consequences and Global Impact
Deforestation and Climate Change
Deforestation and Carbon Sequestration
Deforestation and Individual Actions
Deforestation and Wildlife Trafficking
Deforestation and Sustainable Development
Deforestation and Indigenous Communities
Deforestation and Biodiversity Loss
Deforestation and Forest Fires
The Importance of Forests

Quick Read: Speech on Nuclear Energy

English Speech Topics on Social Issues

Women Empowerment
Education of Girl Child
Unemployment
Casteism
Reservation
Importance of Maintaining Hygiene
Child Labour
Social Distancing
Organ Donation
Importance of the Right to Education
Child Trafficking
Cultural Diversity
Struggles of Immigrants
Impact of Globalisation
Adult education

English Speech Topics on Important Days & Events

Independence Day
Mother’s Day
World Cancer Day
World Population Day
World Health Day
Ambedkar Jayanti
Gandhi Jayanti
Human Rights Day
Zero Discrimination Day
Women’s Day
Thanksgiving
Anti-Terrorism Day
Hindi Diwas

Check out this list of all the important national and international days in 202 4 !

English Speech Topics on Greatest Leaders in India & Around the World

Mahatma Gandhi
Jawaharlal Nehru
Raja Rammohan Roy
George Washington
Albert Einstein
APJ Abdul Kalam
Nelson Mandela
Kailash Satyarthi

English Speech Topics on Indian Culture

Diversity in India
Speech on Holi
The Role of Yoga and Meditation in Indian Culture and Its Global Impact
The Importance of Traditional Indian Clothing
Indian Folklore
Indian Festivals
The Art of Indian Dance
Traditional Indian Medicine (Ayurveda)
Indian Epics and Mythology
Social Customs and Etiquettes in Indian Society
Indian Sports and Games

English Speech Topics on Proverbs

Honesty is the best policy
When there’s a will, there is a way
Actions speak louder than words
Knowledge is Power
Ignorance is Bliss
Don’t judge a book by its cover
Hard work is the key to success

Explore these proverbs & their meanings through this blog on Difficult Phrases !

English Speech Topics on Human Rights

The Role of International Organisations in Promoting and Protecting Human Rights
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights: A Milestone in Human History
Gender Equality: Breaking Barriers and Empowering Women
Ensuring a Safe and Sustainable Environment for the Next Generation
The Right to Education: Empowering Minds
Bridging the Gap Between the Rich and Poor
Human Rights and Armed Conflicts
Global Fight to Combat Human Trafficking
Human Rights and Climate Change
Religious Freedom: Tolerance and Coexistence in a Diverse Society

To know what to mention in such speech topics, explore the Great Personalities in the World !

English Speech Topics on Education

Importance of teacher in your life
SAT scores for college application
Student bullies should be expelled
Consequences of cheating in exams
Homeschooling is better than normal schooling
Importance of value education
Importance of sports and physical exercises
Schools vs colleges
What is the difference between a school, college and university in the USA?

Check Out: Synonyms List

English Speech Topics on the Importance of Water

The Water-Energy Nexus
The Essence of Water: Exploring the Live-giving Properties of H2O
Water as a Driver of Economic Growth and Prosperity
Water Security: Ensuring Equal Access and Quality for All
Water and Agriculture
The Role of Water in Ecosystems
Water and Blue Economy
Water Diplomacy: Promoting Collaboration for Transboundary Water Management
Water and Cultural Significance: Exploring Symbolisms and Rituals
Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH): Foundational for Human Health and Dignity

Miscellaneous Speech Topics

Article 370
Women rights
The Constitution of India
Youth of India
Culture of India
Importance of Unity
Generation Gap
Importance of Value Education
Old Age Homes
Family Values
Leadership skills
Rise of Smart Classes
Grading System
Importance of Practical Education
Benefits of Co-Education
Importance of Co-Curricular Activities
The uselessness of Power-Point Presentations
Rise of Technology
Excessive usage of the Internet
Speech on Fear
Speech on Dependence on Technology
Importance of Social Media
Speech on India of My Dreams
Indian Education System
Speech on My India

Types of Persuasive Speech Topics

While exploring persuasive English speech topics, you must make sure that they are stimulating, engaging, concise and clear. There are three main types of Persuasive Speech topics which are:

1. Factual Persuasive Speech : These topics include facts, figures and statistics to thoroughly analyse the given topic and assess whether it’s true or false.

2. Policy Persuasive Speech : Discussing policies, laws and reforms, these speech topics critically examine the advantages and disadvantages of the given policy or law and suggest the improvements that can be made.

3. Value Persuasive Speech : Mainly focusing on social or political issues, these speech topics present the critique and argument of whether certain actions are morally right or not.

Tips for Writing and Speaking a Speech

While speaking on a particular topic, there are certain things that you must keep in mind to make your speech expressive and effective. Let’s take a look at some useful topics that help you in acing any topic you are speaking on.

Always research the topic. If you are participating in an extempore, then make sure to go through the common and popular topics as well as the unconventional ones that you might get. Preparation is the key to delivering an impressive speech. For inspiration, look up various speech examples to see how effective speakers engage their audience
Whether you are given a topic on the spot or you are prepared for the speech, it is always pivotal that you seem interested in speaking about it. Relate the given issues to your own life and this will help you in giving it your twist.
Pay extra attention to your body language and enunciation. While a gesticulative approach will make you seem outward, having timid body language can cause a wrong impression.
Ponder upon the different viewpoints on a topic . Try to present a holistic view of the given topic but don’t forget to present your opinion on it as well. Along with this, don’t try to take sides unless the topic demands you to.
Involve your audience, if possible. This way, you will be able to interact with the people and it will also be useful in fighting the fear of public speaking.
Don’t mug up a speech. It becomes evident when someone just speaks on a topic continuously and the audience might realise that you have memorized it or you might forget a certain part which will let the whole speech fade away from your brain.
Instead, make notes about the topic in your mind, remember certain keywords and try to maintain a particular flow in your speech.
Incorporate humour in your speech in a way that you do not offend anyone or overdo it but get a positive reaction from the audience. Humour is a great way of lightening the mood as well as ensuring the whole speech is interactive and engaging.
When you need more specialized assistance, a US essay writing service can be a valuable resource for crafting your speech.

While preparing for English Speech topics, you must also check out IELTS Speaking Topics !

Juvenile delinquency is acceptable. Prostitution should be legal. Underage driving should be punishable by law. Beauty pageants for children should be banned. Prisoner’s right to vote. Voting rights should not be universal. Guns should be banned from college campuses.

A three-minute speech is undoubtedly a wonderful starting point for public speaking. This is because you need to communicate with your audience more effectively when you just have a short amount of time. In addition, the speech ought to be concise, pertinent, and clear.

Life is the gift of God in the form of trust that we will make it meaningful in whatever we can. We are all unique individuals. No one is born like you and no one will ever be, so cherish your individuality. Many times, I come across people accusing God of things that they don’t have. They always cursing their lives.

2-minute speeches are short and crisp speeches of about 260-350 words .

Team Leverage Edu

14 comments

I take english speaking classes, please provide me sone more material to help student’s.

Here are some articles on books and study material that will help your students- https://leverageedu.com/blog/english-speaking-books/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/books-by-charles-dickens/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/best-books-by-george-orwell/

I want topic on students and online classes

It is helpful for my school homework thanks 😸

Glad we could help!

Nice advise 👍

Thank you, Pragya!

Not good topics 🤔🤔

Thanks for the suggestion. We will update the blog!

Helpful for students . So I like it

Thanks for reading! Also, read: Daily Used English Words Speech on Importance of English Reach us at 1800 57 2000 for study-abroad related matters!

You people are giving great contribution in internet learning and it is for all….

Hi, thank you for your valuable feedback.

Awesome! Its really awesome article, I have got much clear idea concerning from this post.

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17+ Interesting & Stunning Business Speech Topics In 2023

Why Is Business Speech Important?

1. Building Credibility

2. Inspiring action

3. Share your knowledge

4. Networking

5. Communication skills improvement

1. Leadership

2. Innovation

3. Customer Service

4. Business Ethics

5. Marketing

7. Team Building

8. Time Management

9. Financial Management

10. Human Resources

11. Internal Auditing

12. Operations

13. Starting a Business

14. Business Ethics

15. Marketing

16. Environment and Climate Change

18. Technology

19. Investing

Elements for Business Speech

1. Clear Purpose

2. Audience Analysis

3. Structure

4. Clear and concise language

5. Engaging delivery

6. Persuasive Techniques

7. Call to Action

Ways to Deliver Speech Efficiently

1. Start with a strong opening

2. Know your audience

3. Keep it concise

4. Use visuals

5. Use stories and examples

6. Practice, practice, practice

7. Engage the audience

8. End with a call to action

Q1. How can I keep my business speech concise and to the point?

Q2. How can I prepare for a business speech?

Q3. How can I engage my audience during a business speech?

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What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

It's Something You Know About or Are Interested in Learning About

It's a Topic People Care About

It Isn't Overdone

105 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

Arts/Culture

Government/Politics

Science/Environment

3 Bonus Tips for Crafting Your Persuasive Speech

Do Your Research

Consider All the Angles

Know Your Audience

More Resources for Writing Persuasive Speeches

Conclusion: Persuasive Speech Ideas

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112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

Choose Something You’re Passionate About

Steer Clear of Cliches

Have a Clear Side of Opposition

Environment

Science & Technology

Social Media