Impromptu Public Speaking
Do not think on your feet!
Sometimes you might be asked to give comments or a presentation without advance notice. You might be tempted to think on your feet. I strongly suggest that you do not think on your feet. It is easy to get yourself into trouble. Instead always be prepared to speak on very short notice. Impromptu speaking is similar to regular presenting – in that both are based on skill development. The better you know and practice the techniques the more it looks like talent.
Here are some techniques to help you with impromptu speaking.
Know some favourite stories that you tell well and can use to illustrate more than one message as required.
Quickly write three points on an index card – then talk about those points.
Decide on the one thing that you want to get across – and deliver that message.
Conduct your speech as an interview with yourself. Ask questions – and answer them.
Don’t think on your feet – instead be prepared.
George Torok
Speech Coach for Executives
Presentation Skills Training
Motivational Keynote Speaker
Hi George. You are absolutely right. People can learn to give great business presentations and other speeches. I always recommend that people take some training and then join a Toastmasters International speakers’ club. The regular practice that you get at clubs like these reinforces and builds on the training. At my club I’ve seen a woman who was too nervous to speak at a family party turn into an accomplished speaker and an Olympic Athlete conquer her public speaking fears.
ReplyDeleteIt’s all about practice, practice, practice!
Hi Dorothea,
ReplyDeleteYes, Toastmasters has a well thought out system to teach people to become better speakers. It is a powerful combination of technique, practice and encouragement.
Toastmasters helped me and I highly recomend it.
Check Toastmasters.org to learn more.
George Torok
thank you
ReplyDelete