How to Speak Impromptu

Have you ever been faced with an impromptu situation? Whether it be in a class setting or professional setting, we will all have to face an impromptu experience. This quick how-to guide will get you headed on the right track.

TIP #1: Do not think too much

If you can help it, do not focus too much on the situation. You already know that you must speak on the assigned topic. Try not to think too much on it. If you do, your thoughts will become jumbled together or you may simply stop talking during your presentation due to not knowing what to say.

TIP #2: Jot down a few key thoughts

The purpose of impromptu is to see how well you think on the spot. If you are able to, jot down a few key thoughts on the topic before you present it. You can look back down at what you have written and I am SURE ideas will begin rushing to your head.

TIP #3:Try to focus on that one supporting person

If you are able, try to find that one person in the audience who is nodding their head in approval. You will get an instant sense of confidence and more than likely, your presentation will be even better.

TIP #4: Show self confidence

Even if you do not feel confident, talk as if you are very knowledgeable about the subject you are presenting. If you are in a class setting, you were probably given a topic on the spot. In these situations, just perform tip #2 and begin speaking loud and clear when it is time for you to present. Even if what you are saying is not correct, at least you appeared to know what you were talking about. If you are in a professional setting, hopefully you know a bit about what you are speaking on. If so, exhibit that self-confidence that you have and speak!

TIP #5: Do not bring attention to yourself

I have seen many times where someone will say, "I am not prepared so if I mess up, then you will know why". Do not bring attention to yourself. More than likely, people will begin to look for any little screw up if you say something like that. Just take a deep breath...and speak.

TIP #6: Do not speak too fast

Speaking too fast shows that you are nervous. As I have stated before, take a deep breath (not during the speech of course) and begin speaking articulate and precise.

Speaking impromptu can be hard in many situations but believe it or not, we speak impromptu everyday. Whether it be answering questions in class or whether it is just friendly conversations, we are still actively practicing the skill of "speaking on the spot". The next time you have to do a presentation impromptu, just take a deep breath, gather your thoughts, and....speak.