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  • Impromptu Speaking Techniques: 8 Easy-to-Use Examples

    Posted by Jef Menguin on July 18, 2024 at 9:34 am

    Think in Threes. When given a topic, quickly think of three main points. For example, if asked about your favorite hobby, you might talk about how you started, why you enjoy it, and what you’ve learned. This structure helps keep your thoughts organized.

    Use Personal Stories. Sharing a brief personal story related to the topic can make your speech more engaging and relatable. For instance, if asked about leadership, you might share a story about a time you successfully led a team.

    Stay Calm and Pause. Take a deep breath and pause for a moment before you start speaking. This helps you gather your thoughts and reduces anxiety. Remember, it’s okay to take short pauses during your speech to think.

    Rephrase the Question. Begin by rephrasing the question or topic. This gives you extra time to think and ensures that the audience understands the topic. For example, if asked about the importance of teamwork, you might start with, “Teamwork is crucial because…”

    Be Honest. If you don’t know the answer or have limited knowledge on the topic, it’s okay to admit it. You can say, “I’m not very familiar with this topic, but from what I know…” and then share your thoughts. Honesty keeps you authentic.

    Stay on Topic. Focus on the main idea and avoid going off on tangents. If asked about a recent book you read, stick to discussing the book rather than veering off into unrelated topics.

    Use the PREP Formula. This stands for Point, Reason, Example, and Point. Make your main point, explain why it’s important, give an example to support it, and then restate your point. This formula helps structure your response clearly.

    Practice Active Listening. Pay close attention to the question or prompt. Active listening ensures you understand the topic fully and can respond appropriately. Repeat the question in your head if needed to stay focused.

    Using these simple techniques can help you become more confident and effective at impromptu speaking. With practice, you’ll be able to think quickly and communicate clearly, even without preparation.

    Jef Menguin replied 2 months, 3 weeks ago 1 Member · 0 Replies
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