The introduction may serve 3 functions

1. Gain attention

Asking questions

Referring to recent events

Use as an example a narration or an illustration

Use Quotation

Use facts and statistics

Use Humor

 2. Establish speaker/ audition topic coherency

You must establish

Credibility

Refer to the others present

Express your emotion and interest about public speaking

Compliment the audience

Express similarities with the audience

3. Orient the audience

Give a general idea of your subject

Identify the main subjects you will cover

Give a detailed preview

Identify your goal