How to Give a Great Impromptu Speech

Being asked to speak publicly without any notice is enough to unnerve the most poised among us. Mark Twain said, "It usually takes me about three weeks to prepare a good impromptu speech." If you want to make a great impromptu speech, make a quick mental inventory your strengths and then construct a brief outline that brings out the best in you while covering the topic as requested.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Take advantage of whatever notice is given, even if its only a few minutes, and prepare. Grab a piece of paper (cocktail napkin, the back of a business card) and make a few quick notes.

2. Jot down the main points of the topic. Relate them to the event or the audience. Remember that the speech is a monologue, tailor it to be personal without input from others.

3. Speak slowly and clearly while taking time to organize thoughts. Begin with an introduction that hints at the direction of the speech. Choose a topic that is familiar and comfortable.

4. Concentrate on tone, rate of speaking and diction in order to draw the focus away from the audience. Control what is being said and how it is being said so as to control the tone and direction of what is to come.

5. Relate an anecdote from the event to which the entire audience can related. Cite an accomplishment or achievement of an individual or the organization. Be generous with genuine with comments and remarks.

6. Continue through the speech in a logical manner. Makes notes along the way as necessary to keep on track. Conclude the speech with "thank you."

7. Ask for a glass of water to cover a momentary lapse when drawing a blank. Take a drink, pause and try to collect thoughts.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid corny, unrelated jokes. They may throw off the audience, which makes you uneasy and put you off the topic.
• Feel free to say that you've only had a few moments to prepare. Do not apologize. Simply state the facts.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Earn your degree from industry experts at University of Phoenix. Take the next step in your career.