Knowing what your audience needs before you give a speech is really important. It helps you share a message that they will care about. Here are some simple questions to think about:

1. Who is my audience?

   • Are they professionals, students, or just a mix of people? Knowing their background helps you adjust your message. For example, if you're talking to marketing experts, you can use terms and examples that they will understand.

2. What are their interests?

   • What topics do they like, or what problems do they want to solve? You could use surveys or social media to find out what interests them. You might even ask them about the hardest challenges they face and talk about those in your speech.

3. What do they already know?

   • Are they beginners, somewhat experienced, or really good at the topic? This helps you decide how deep you should go with your information. If your audience knows a lot about a subject, skipping the easy stuff can keep them engaged longer.

4. What do I want them to get from my speech?

   • Are they looking for inspiration, information, or help? Knowing this can guide how you prepare your speech. For example, if they are looking for motivation, stories about personal success can really inspire them.

5. Are there any cultural differences?

   • Understanding different cultures can help you avoid misunderstandings and connect better with your audience. For example, a joke that some people find funny might not work for others and might even hurt feelings.

By thinking about these questions, you will be ready to create a speech that really meets your audience's needs.