Ideally once you or your class has become more confident, you'll lessen the preparation time. The ultimate goal is to be given a speech topic and to begin speaking on the subject coherently and easily, almost immediately. Banishing impromptu speaking blues Impromptu speaking can be enough to frighten even the bravest of souls. If that's you, take heart. Being asked to speak in public is a HUGE challenge for many. But being asked to speak spontaneously as well as publicly can put the task firmly in the very-difficult, to-be-avoided-at-all-times-I'd-rather-die category. Having acknowledged your fear let's KISS it better! The KISS principle The KISS principle (Keep It Succinct & Simple) will give you a formula applicable to all impromptu speaking occasions. Asked to give a few words to conclude a business meeting? No problem. Have to make a presentation on the spur of the moment? Easy. You're asked for a quick summary of your company's latest developments. Simple. Whatever the purpose of your impromptu speaking, KISS will serve you well. The art of KISS in action Use the time you have between being asked to speak and actually getting to your feet to plan even if it's only a few minutes. If you're in the middle of a social event or busy meeting find a quieter corner to concentrate. Brainstorm Jot your notes on whatever is handy - a paper table napkin, the back of envelope..., putting down as many ideas as you can. Select ONE message (the best or strongest) from your notes to focus on. Write that down and any opening/closing ideas. Just like any other form of speech you require structure. You will need an opening, a body and a conclusion. Focus on the body of the speech first Sort the body of your speech first using which ever of the impromptu speaking templates below best suits your topic. 7 impromptu speaking templates Take your focus or main point and expand it using one of these organizers. This will form the body of your speech. 1. PREP (Point, Reason, Example, Point)
Prepare the opening and the conclusion Having planned the body of your speech, now focus on your opening and conclusion. Take your lead from the impromptu speaking template you've chosen. If, for example, you've chosen Past, Present, Future you might open with a comment based on time. For instance: "Thank-you for this invitation to speak to you about XXXX. To grasp more firmly the nature of what we are dealing with, I'm going to take you on a journey. Firstly we'll go back in time, then we'll focus on what's happening now and lastly, we'll go forward ..." To close, summarize your points briefly and if possible, make your final remark the clincher. Impromptu speaking delivery tips
What do I do if my mind goes blank?
Practice an remember impromptu speaking, like most skills, improves with practice.
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