How to Deliver an Impromptu Speech

For many people, giving a speech before a public audience is a frightening thought. This is especially true of impromptu speeches, or speeches where you are given the opportunity to speak without the chance for any preparation. Although impromptu speeches are more difficult than prepared speeches, there are a few tips that can help make the impromptu speaking experience a bit easier.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 3 by 5-inch card
• Pen

1. Prepare. This may sound funny, considering it is an impromptu speech. By "prepare" I mean to always bring a 3 by 5-inch card and pen whenever you come to dinner parties or gatherings where there will be public speaking. This way you can jot some notes as in a hurry, whether it be in the last few seconds before your name is called, or as you get situated up at the podium.

2. When you name is called, stride up to the lectern with confidence and passion. You are probably going to be nervous, but focus on what you are doing, smile and stride up there with briskly and with an air of authority.

3. While you are striding up to the lectern, think about what you are going to speak about. What are going to be your first words? What topic are you going to cover? What main points would you like to cover? How long are you going to make it? Depending on where you are seated in respect to the podium, you may have many seconds to consider these things and make some decisions.

4. When up at the lectern, smile and pause. The pause, besides drawing more anticipation and interest from the audience about what you are going to speak about, also gives you more time to collect your thoughts. You may even, if you have not already had a chance, take a couple seconds to take out your 3 by 5 card and jot down a few notes. You may also notice that you are quite nervous. During the pause, work on breathing deeply and think about what you want to speak about. Many of the techniques of prepared public speaking can be applied to impromptu speaking as well. For example, consider your audience?.Who are they and what will they respond to? How do you want your audience to feel or think after you are done speaking? What is you purpose? To persuade? Inform? Entertain? Breathe deep and think deep. If you have time for nothing else, plan a conclusion. Navigating an impromptu speech is a lot easier if you have a target to aim for.

5. Pick out a few friends or people you feel comfortable talking to from the audience and keep you eye contact on them throughout your speech. Don't just focus on one, however, but pick at least three located in different places around the audience. If all else fails, just speak from the heart.