“It usually takes me more than three weeks to prepare a good impromptu speech.” Mark Twain
Being called to speak on demand is very scary for most people. Whether it is for work, in a meeting, or faced with just introducing yourself to others there are ways you can prepare for these situations and turn them into opportunities rather than a death sentence.
An unprepared speaker will generally be faced with the following symptoms:
• Your brain freezes
• You begin to mumble or ramble
• You appear as a deer-in-the-headlights
• You are unable to speak in full logical sentences
Trust me I have been there, however, I soon realized the value of the impromptu speech aka:
• Speaking off the cuff
• Spur of the moment speaking
• Extemporaneous speaking
With a lot of work and practice I learned the following tips that will definitely benefit your impromptu speaking. If you are surprisingly asked to speak at the last moment, here are a few tips to get you through:
• Speak confidently – you will not die
• Focus on your audience
• Remember less is more – avoid the ramble
• Have a structure to what you are delivering:
o Past/present/future
o Cause/effect/remedy
o Before/during/after
o A story that you have that is relatable and has great impact
• Talk conversationally, slowly and with purpose
If you can get any communication training that includes impromptu speaking definitely go for it. The value of this talent will set you a level above the rest, will instill confidence, and make you a better communicator and leader.
#speaking