Impromptu speaking is sometimes called "speaking off the cuff," a phrase that suggests you could put all your notes on the cuff of your shirt. Impromptu speaking is useful when you have little or no time for preparation or practice.
At work, you might find yourself being asked to make a presentation "in 15 minutes." Yours will be an impromptu presentation. In a meeting, you might want to "say a few words" about something; again you will have to make an impromptu speech.
You can use impromptu speaking skills in other classes -- to answer a question or to comment on a point made by your professor. If you have just a few minutes to prepare, determine your purpose first. What do you want the audience to know? What is important?
Next, decide on your points. Don't try to cover too much. Limit yourself to no more than three main points. If you have access to any type of writing material — a note pad, a scrap of paper —- jot down a memory-jogging word for each idea, either in the order of importance or as the ideas flow naturally.
This skeletal outline will keep you from rambling or forgetting something that's important. Keep your presentation short and end with a summary of your remarks. An impromptu speech is one of several such speeches usually given during meetings. Fortunately, most impromptu speaking situations are relatively casual.
{{/usCountry}}This skeletal outline will keep you from rambling or forgetting something that's important. Keep your presentation short and end with a summary of your remarks. An impromptu speech is one of several such speeches usually given during meetings. Fortunately, most impromptu speaking situations are relatively casual.
{{/usCountry}}No one expects a polished presentation on a moment’s notice. However, the ability to organise your ideas quickly and effectively and to present them confidently puts you at a greater advantage.
Courtesy: Public Speaking by Michael Osborn and Suzzanne Osborn. Published by Wiley Dreamtech