You’ve already learned that being able to think (and, speak) well on your feet is one of the most important professional skills you can get.
It’s even more valuable than formal public speaking skills because you likely give hundreds, if not thousands, of informal, conversational talks for every one formal public speech you give.
The definition of impromptu speaking, according to a few different sources is:
“Not prepared ahead of time: made or done without preparation.” – www.merriam-webster.com
“Made or done without previous preparation; suddenly or hastily prepared; improvised.” – www.dictionary.com
“The impromptu speech is given without any preparation, any notes or other additional materials; it is a spontaneous reaction to the topic at hand.” – Speech-guru.com
Whom do you know that is a great impromptu speaker? Have you been amazed at how some of these people can say the right things at the right time? Jealous?
People with great impromptu speaking skills are the ones who make the sale and who get elected. Those who can communicate well in the workplace get the promotions. Guys who can think well on their feet get the girls.
So what’s their secret?
The Closely-Guarded Secret of Great Impromptu Speakers
How do these people say such impressive things off-the-cuff? How do they come up with things to say that do so much for them professionally and socially, without any preparation?
(drumroll)
They prepare.
But what about the definition of impromptu speaking…”not prepared ahead of time” and all that?
Those definitions of impromptu speaking are wrong. Deceitfully wrong.
They must be part of a conspiracy by competent extemporaneous speakers to make everyone else think they’ll never attain that communication skill.
So now that myth is dispelled, how should you go about preparing for these unexpected, unplanned-for speaking opportunities?
I’ve been studying and researching this idea for a few decades now, and want to share what I’ve learned with you.
Look for more emails and articles in the upcoming weeks about how you can become an extraordinary impromptu speaker.