Speaking

Impromptu Speaking

Notes courtesy of Toastmasters International, http://www.toastmasters.org

"It usually takes me more than three weeks to prepare a good impromptu speech." - Mark Twain

Introduction

When people are suddenly asked to speak impromptu their nerves begin to flutter like butterflies, however as Toastmasters we have the advantage of practicing impromptu speaking in order to keep those butterflies in formation. The Toastmasters Table Topics Session is a valuable exercise in order to practice the following suggestions and improve your skills and ability to speak extemporaneously.

The secret to successful impromptu speaking is to speak on specific illustrations, experiences and examples from your past that you are knowledgeable on, and that you have a desire to share with other people.

 If you are asked to give an impromptu speech at a function but you feel that you cannot bring something worthwhile to the audience, decline the invitation. Don't provide excuses and waste the audience's time with weak, meaningless material as it only weakens your image and anything you say.

Body:

Here are some techniques to help you think clearly and effectively on your feet.

1. Define the purpose and objectives of your speech.

* Stop, stay calm and cool in order to formulate your talk.

* Get your goal clearly in focus by defining your     purpose  or viewpoint.

* Decide your starting and finishing points.

* State the reason why you are speaking on the subject.

* Open strongly

- "I believe that ....... the reason being....."

- "My experience shows ...... because ........."

* Remember if you don't know where you are going, any road will get you there!

 2. Choose a Specific Illustration, Experience or Example.

* Speaking about personal experiences will give you courage and confidence.

* Helps you to be clear, convincing and believable.

* Just tell about a specific event, example or experience

- when it happened.

- why it happened

- where it happened

- what caused...