"How can I learn to think on my feet?"
That's one of the most frequently asked questions I get about public speaking.
It's usually followed by, "I'm OK if I have time to prepare a presentation, but I'm petrified if I'm called on with little notice."
Here's a 4-step formula to help you think on your feet (or sitting on your seat) when you've been asked unexpectedly to speak. It provides instant organization and allows you to look and feel confident.
- Think of 3 questions you are frequently asked about the topic. (Or think of 3 issues you can talk about and turn them into questions.)
- Open with, "Here are the 3 questions I'm being asked about [topic].
- Ask yourself the first question and then answer it. Repeat for questions 2 and 3.
- Conclude with a call for action ("So what I need from you is...") or a forward-looking statement ("So here is what we will be focusing on in the next [quarter].")
Quick. Easy. Powerful. And lets you succeed where most speakers falter--thinking on your feet.
Comments