5 tips to speak extemporaneously
Speaking impromptu may sound difficult and scary, but it’s easier than you think. Also known as speaking “off the cuff” or “off the cuff,” this is a skill you already use without realizing it! If you’ve ever been interviewed for a job, gone on a date, or been asked for your opinion in a meeting, you’ve spoken out of the blue. How can you improve your confidence and ability to speak on the go? Try the following 5 tips:
#1: Don’t panic
It is true that the number one fear of humans is public speaking, yes, above spiders and even death. Hopefully you will never find yourself in a setting full of poisonous spiders, but if you feel like you are every time someone asks you a question, then you would benefit from a little visualization and breathing.
If you get put on the spot out of the blue, take a deep breath and remember that your opinion has to matter, or you wouldn’t be there. Visualize yourself as a calm and eloquent person, then start talking.
If you’re heading into a situation where you know you’ll have to talk at some point, then do your homework. What themes will emerge? What do you already know? What questions can you ask in return? Being prepared goes a long way to building confidence.
Before a job interview, date, or social event, take time for a little pep talk. Get there early and head to the bathroom. Do a hair, teeth, and clothing check. Then take a deep breath, look in the mirror, and say something like, “You got it!” Stand up straight, square your shoulders, and smile. You have this.
#2: Listen
It sounds counterintuitive, but listening is your best conversational and interviewing skill. Listen first, think second, speak last. If you are busy formulating what to say next while the other person is talking, you will often miss the point of the question or something important that the other person has addressed. Many embarrassing and unfortunate misunderstandings arise from answering a question that was not asked.
If the question isn’t clear or you’re not sure what they want you to say, ask! You can reinforce the question by saying something like “If I understand what you’re asking, you mean…” or just ask a few clarifying questions to make sure you’re answering the right thing.
Once you know what the other person is asking, answer ONLY that question. You may or may not need to elaborate, but let that person guide you. This will prevent you from babbling or sharing too much.
#3: Change the game
It happens sometimes: you are asked to talk about a topic you know nothing about. Instead of letting everyone know you’re in the room, rephrase the question or topic into something you do know. It’s not as hard as it looks. There is always an element of something you do know in any situation or question. When the spotlight is on you, talk only about what you have experience with. Tell a story or joke that relates to the topic, no matter how loosely (but don’t go totally meaningless, or your audience will think you weren’t listening). Then ask a question to fill in the blanks and listen again.
#4: Use the Rule of Three
It works on comedy, it works on drama, it can work for you. Even if you have little time to organize your thoughts before speaking, use the rule of three. Three Dots, Three Elements, Three Bullets: Whatever form you take, never step over the magical, golden number of three. Any more, and you’ll find yourself losing your place.
Use your fingers to help you remember which three points you want to cover. Make a mental note of which finger represents which point, then use them like 1-2-3 or ABC as you talk about each topic like a pro.
#5: Practice!
Just like riding a bike or learning to tie your shoes, speaking impromptu about anything will seem difficult at first, but you’ll find that the more you do it, the easier it becomes. There are many places and ways that you can practice your impromptu speaking skills in a supportive environment. Some suggestions:
- Visit a Toastmasters club for the best tips, tricks, and listening training (no, it’s not just about giving speeches). The good thing about this organization is that you get immediate feedback.
- Volunteer to answer questions or offer suggestions at your next business meeting
- Offer to do the prayers or announcements at your religious organization
- Join an improv class, book club, or charity
- Play social games like Balderdash or Trivial Pursuit with friends and family.
- Small talk with your coworkers
These 5 points will take you from terrified to talkative, but only if you use them. Remember, your voice matters, otherwise you wouldn’t have been asked to speak in the first place.
