How to Give an Instant Speech

For some of us, the idea of being called upon to speak to a group--without any previous warning--rates right up there in the category of worst-possible nightmares. However, with just a little thought, you can always be ready to speak on the spur of the moment.

Instructions

How to Give an Instant Speech

1. Smile. No matter how serious the subject of your speech, begin with a smile. Keep in mind that researchers have proven that most people would rather receive a smile than a dollar. Whatever you are going to say is going to be better received by an audience who perceives that you are pleased to be speaking to them.

2. Begin by mentioning the “Five W’s”—the who, what, when, where, and why. --The “who” would be who you are and who the audience is (the name of the group or organization). --The “what” would be the occasion. --The “when” would be the date.--The “where” would be the place.--The “why” would be why you are being asked to speak.For example: “I’m John Smith, the newest member of the faculty and I’m happy to be with the staff on this beautiful September evening here at Westbrook High School as we celebrate the beginning of the school year.

3. Keep in mind the “why” as you begin to speak. Address three aspects of that “why.” Three is a key number; it can usually work for any subject. --For example, you have been asked to speak because you are the newest staff member; therefore, you can speak about where you’ve come from, why you chose to come to this particular school, and what hopes you have for the coming school year.--Another example: You have been asked to speak because you have developed a new product for your company. You might speak on how the idea for the product came about, who was instrumental in its development, and what you foresee as the future for the product.

4. Use every opportunity you can to mention names of people in the audience—but only in ways that will not cause them any embarrassment. For example, “I was grateful when Tim introduced me to . . .” or “Joan, Andrea, and Thomas all worked together to accomplish . . . “

5. Keep it short. You are less likely to run into pitfalls if you stick to your Plan of Three (see Step #2) and stop there before wrapping it up.

6. Wrap up your speech with one of the following methods:--Invite questions from the audience.--Ask if anyone would like to add to your remarks.--Suggest a trip to the buffet table.