Impromptu Speaking Begins with "A"

I presented this speech to a Toastmasters Club's Open House on Janury 31, 2013.


Pictured with me is Kathy-VPE and Natalie-VPM who organized the event.

Do your knees shake, your palms get sweaty and your mouth get dry when you are asked a question that you don't know how to answer?  Or, perhaps you knew the answer but you just couldn't get it out for anyone to hear? Do you get that 'deer in the headlights' look?

Don't get caught in that situation again.

Below are my tips to get more confident and skilled at Table Topics, networking, social events, work project updates and community organization meetings.


ANTICIPATE
¨ Think of questions you may be asked in any  situation.
¨ Develop your answers ahead of time so you don’t struggle at the time.
¨ Be well read on a variety of topics to be ready to respond effectively.
¨ Learn about a specific subject to gain knowledge and develop your opinion.
¨ You don’t have to be an expert on a subject; however, knowing a little can create conversation starters.

PRACTICE
¨ Answer potential questions “out loud” instead  of to yourself.
¨ Strive to alleviate pause fillers to enhance your communication and message.
¨ Work toward an easy flow of words that relay confidence and knowledge.
¨ Observe other speakers to learn new ways to communicate more effectively.
¨ Ask a friend or mentor to ask you questions that are new to you in order to develop your skills. (i.e. job interviews, work projects, community efforts).
  
DELIVER
¨ Look for opportunities to build your skills, i.e. networking, social events, community efforts, etc.
¨ Ask the question again to clarify if you are unsure.
¨ Gather your thoughts quickly and take your time to answer.
¨ If you don’t know the answer, offer to find it or give your best response based on your knowledge.
¨ Always maintain poise and confidence.

APD - it's easy to remember... Good Luck!

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