@robdwillis: Simon Sinek uses one subtle opening technique that makes his speeches impossible to ignore — and once you notice it, you can’t unsee it. In this breakdown, we analyze how Sinek opens with intrigue instead of introductions. No “Hi, my name is…” No slide previews. No big performative energy. Instead, he starts with statements that create a curiosity gap — lines like “I’m embarrassed that I have a career” or “I have an impression…” This works because of the psychology of open loops. When there’s a gap between what we know and what we want to know, our brain feels compelled to close it. It’s the same mechanism behind cliffhangers and irresistible headlines. If you want to hook audiences in presentations, keynotes, or meetings, this curiosity-driven opening technique will immediately elevate your public speaking. How could you create more intrigue in your next opening line? Let me know in the comments.
Rob D. Willis
Region: DE
Saturday 28 February 2026 09:11:49 GMT
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TheMattDaddy🇨🇦 :
He always comes off as so insincere
2026-03-03 00:26:50
21
Zaphod Beeblebrox :
Study stand up comedy. ALL the secrets are there.
2026-02-28 16:46:57
93
Lightblue Sam :
Oh… I saw that he started with some slight vulnerability: “I’m embarrassed…”, “I think…it’s depressing…”, “here is a confession…” that makes a nice soft opener that makes people more willing to listen.
2026-02-28 13:18:33
202
kempedup :
Simon Sinek starts his speeches with curiosity. You’re welcome.
2026-02-28 21:44:56
113
Meghan McTavish ® :
Today I realised Simon sinek’s been using TikTok hooks all this time 😅
2026-02-28 22:31:07
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FarmwithBooch☘️ :
Are you on YouTube
2026-02-28 13:06:02
1
David B :
great point. it uses the Zeigarnik Effect which is a psychological phenomenon where uncompleted or interrupted tasks are remembered better than completed ones, often causing them to "haunt" the mind. draws us in..
2026-02-28 11:57:36
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its_mylife79 :
Love Simon Sinek have met him twice great guy
2026-03-19 11:56:28
3
beckycareercoaching :
Ah that’s interesting. I hear a self deprecating comment and an emotion that makes him very human, that’s what keeps me watching
2026-02-28 17:13:36
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mr_kitten_mittens_ :
If Simon Sinek has zero haters, I'm dead
2026-03-01 14:46:08
5
Taudus :
Hearing that intro once does the trick, I suppose, but hearing it multiple times can get a bit ridiculous, don’t you think?
2026-02-28 11:39:53
8
Noah :
This page is a (somewhat) hidden gem
2026-03-21 12:46:31
1
Koren :
I truthfully want Simon
2026-04-15 21:52:31
1
Tammy :
8 minutes!
2026-03-01 01:38:08
1
David_Linton81 :
Pragmatic pause - giving time for the listener to think and follow along maybe come up with there own questions
2026-02-28 15:24:22
7
Fox & Otter Educational TV :
Samuel perpot Langley Golden circle. really shaped me as a public speaker
2026-03-01 14:04:52
1
The Anxiety Coach :
Brilliant 👏 a mastermind 🥰
2026-03-01 09:15:43
2
drclinpsych24 :
He seems to express vulnerability first
2026-02-28 22:59:04
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Cresswells World Travel :
I love Simon Sinek, definitely one of my role models when it comes to leadership
2026-03-02 07:28:37
3
J :
Do you have other examples?
2026-02-28 10:10:03
0
poplesz 🇪🇺 :
He also starts out by putting the emphasis to an emotion / sentiment mostly related to frustration. No?
2026-02-28 19:40:36
2
Yvette G :
This is great for trial attorneys
2026-03-04 11:20:07
1
Dave Worthen :
That’s EXCELLENT!! Thank you! 😎👊🏼
2026-02-28 18:27:10
1
GENXERMILES 🎸 :
Well spotted and explained
2026-02-28 10:25:55
2
RoRo :
I’m astonished by this 😳. From years of being misunderstood (autistic individual here), I have worked to be clearer and more precise in my speaking but missed the point. I haven’t really understood the need for the hook or the piquing of interest. I thought intrigue or mystique was something inherent to people and not created or create-able. I will be practicing this in Toastmasters and work and socially. Telling stories is a work of art.
2026-03-01 11:29:55
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