Present your thoughts


Be prepared to improvise
The capacity to speak well without preparation is virtually a pricelessly valuable attribute in today's professional. Surprises-good and bad-now happen at light speed in the workplace. Those who can speak clearly and assuredly when called upon to speak extemporaneously are considered true team players and high-leadership potential individuals. This is especially important in virtual spaces where Zoom meetings and social media interactions in real time require thoughtful responses. The professional who can apply the skill of impromptu communication within these areas moves with more grace, commanding greater influence and credibility.

Impromptu speaking bears no less importance in the networking world. The commonality with just-acquired contacts is established in far quicker ways, with cognitive tools at hand serving to ensure the exchange of ideas and experiences goes as smoothly as possible for more meaningful and long-lasting connections. Be it attending a conference, taking part in a virtual panel discussion, or just casual discussions at work, professionals who can communicate effectively in unscripted scenarios always leave a mark.

Many people believe that thinking on one's feet is an inborn gift, reserved for only the quick-witted or charismatic. This is a grave misconception. The art of impromptu speaking is not an innate gift but rather an acquired skill, honed and fine-tuned. Such ability can be developed through focused practice, relying on structured techniques which help individuals arrange their thoughts with great speed while communicating them clearly and persuasively.

Impromptu speaking is not confined to face-to-face situations, as many communications today rely on live dialogue for building relationships and managing brands. From handling surprise questions in virtual meetings, to going live on social media to address an audience, or even handling on-the-job sudden crises, such skills can place a professional ahead of others.

By mastering impromptu speaking, one will not only increase personal and professional presence but also contribute significantly to the team's agility and resilience. This skill gives each professional the power to adapt to changing circumstances, connect with people more powerfully, and have the confidence to seize each opportunity when it arises.



Building a bridge
A fine way of structuring a impromptu speech is relying on a time-based structure. First, consider the topic as it was handled and dealt with in the past. Go back as far as your personal or historical knowledge will carry you, establishing context and placing your audience in the background of the topic. Bring your discussion into the present, and discuss how the issue is presently being handled. In your opinion, debate the pros and cons of the current approach; comment on how effective it is in your opinion and where it could fail. Lastly, address the future: what improvements or enhancements can be envisioned, what one would hope for as a more promising outcome, and what challenges and obstacles could be faced.

This structure has immense utility on a number of counts. First, it is easy for the speaker to remember and execute on the spot. First, a natural progression from past to present to future helps create the impression of a well-organized, thoughtfully prepared speech. Secondly, it enhances the audience's interest and understanding. The chronological progression keeps listeners interested by following the logical progression of your story and wondering what the next stage of your message will be. But what really works here is that the speaker can appeal to the shared experience, existing realities, and future hopes of those who will constitute his audience.

Guiding the audience through time, such a structure gives the impression of continuity and relevance. Moreover, this structure calls upon the audience to reflect along with the speaker. He draws lines between the individual perspectives to collective insight. This is particularly helpful in impromptu speaking, whether one needs to address a team meeting or deliver a speech in a professional environment or simply take part in a spur-of-the-moment discussion. This will help the speaker convey their message and make them remembered. For your personalized training with Axon Synergy, including impromptu speaking and the development of executive skills, please do not hesitate to contact us.