How to Answer Impromptu Pageant Questions

Answering an unexpected question!

As a pageant or rodeo queen you will find yourself doing a lot of public speaking and answering questions in many different situations and at numerous events. It could be in television or rodeo interviews, at banquets, schools, public appearances, or during rodeos.

Your questions will be serious, off the wall, or for general public information. As a representative for your title you need to be able to answer with confidence and knowledge. This is why there is a category called "impromptu" in may contest. This will determine how well you can think on your feet.

Instructions

1. The best preparation for impromptu is knowledge. The hardest part of answering impromptu questions is the unknown. You never know what you will be asked and so you are expected to be prepared for everything. By studying and preparing you can improve your chances at doing well in this category. Questions can be rodeo or horsemanship knowledge, current events or personality. Study and practice answering questions like you would in front of the judges. The more knowledge you have the easier this category will become.

2. Contests will have different methods for their impromptu questions. Questions can be random and drawn from a 'hat' by each contestant or they can have the same questions for all contestants to answer.

3. When asked the question, pause for just a second so that you can formulate how you will answer the question. Many girls will start answering without thinking about what they want to express and then will regret what they have begun to say.

4. Speak clearly and distinctly. No slang. Look at your audience and your judges while answering. If a question is asked such as, "Who is your role model?" Don't just say a name. Give a short reason why this person is your role model. About three sentences is a good length for most questions. Use personality when answering. Always be positive.

5. If you don't know the answer, say so. The judges are scoring you at that time and saying you will get back to them will not work. If you think you know the answer, be positive and confident. Even if it is incorrect, you might convince everyone that you know what you are talking about.

6. End your answer with a solid statement. Don't just trail off. Let the audience know that you are finished by stepping back and handing the microphone to the emcee.