Impromptu Speaking Techniques : How to speak without any preparation! (3 Keys)

Summary

In this Velocity Videos tutorial, Sean K shares three essential tips for effective impromptu speaking without preparation. He emphasizes the importance of feeling centered, enjoying the speaking process, and viewing every speaking opportunity as a win-win situation. Sean advises to speak concisely, start with a question to engage the audience, and personalize the content to make it unique. He encourages viewers to practice impromptu speaking in their daily lives to enhance their communication skills and make a positive impact.

Takeaways

• 🗺️ Be prepared with a 'map' and 'compass' for impromptu speaking by having three key tools or strategies in mind.
• 🌟 Embrace impromptu speaking opportunities as a chance to shine and demonstrate leadership.
• 🧘‍♂️ Stay centered and poised by moving slowly and at your own pace, not letting external pressures dictate your speech.
• 😃 Enjoy the speaking process and put a smile on your face, as this positive energy will be reflected in your audience's reception.
• 💭 Remember that speaking is a win-win situation; you contribute ideas and learn from the experience, no matter the outcome.
• 📝 Keep your speech concise; 'less is more' by using few words and allowing the audience to digest your message.
• ❓ Start with a question to engage and involve your audience, making them feel part of the conversation.
• 📈 Give your unique angle or story to make your speech stand out from the countless others on the same topic.
• 🏆 Challenge yourself to speak off the cuff in various situations to grow as a contributor and participant.
• 🌐 Your voice, even if it quivers, is more powerful than silence, so ensure your contributions are impactful.

Q & A

What is the main topic of Sean K's video?

The main topic of Sean K's video is providing tips on how to speak effectively without any preparation.

What is the analogy Sean K uses to describe impromptu speaking?

Sean K compares impromptu speaking to being dropped off in the wilderness without a map, suggesting that having certain tools or strategies can help one find their way out.

What are the three key ideas that Sean K suggests writing on a note card for successful speaking?

The three key ideas are: 1) I am centered, 2) Enjoy yourself, and 3) You cannot lose.

Why is feeling centered important when speaking impromptu, according to Sean K?

Feeling centered is important because it allows one to remain poised and not get lost or pressured by external circumstances, which can lead to a more effective and comfortable speaking experience.

How does enjoying oneself while speaking impact the audience, as suggested by Sean K?

If the speaker enjoys themselves, it is likely that the audience will enjoy the speech as well, as the speaker's positive energy and enthusiasm can be contagious.

What is the significance of the phrase 'You cannot lose' in the context of impromptu speaking?

The phrase 'You cannot lose' implies that speaking up and sharing one's ideas is always a win-win situation because it contributes value and is a learning experience.

What is the first tip Sean K gives for effective impromptu speaking?

The first tip is 'less is more,' which means to speak concisely and leave space for the audience to digest the information, creating a greater impact.

Why does Sean K recommend starting with a question when speaking impromptu?

Starting with a question gets people excited and involved, making them feel more connected to the topic and more likely to engage with the speaker.

What does Sean K mean by giving your 'angle' or 'story' when speaking?

Giving your 'angle' or 'story' means personalizing the speech by sharing personal experiences or perspectives, which makes the speech unique and more interesting to the audience.

What is the action challenge Sean K gives to the viewers?

The action challenge is to take opportunities to speak off the cuff in any situation, stretching oneself to contribute and participate more effectively.

How does Sean K encourage viewers to view their impromptu speaking experiences?

Sean K encourages viewers to view impromptu speaking as a powerful tool for contribution and to remember that any voice, even a quivering one, is more impactful than silence.

Outlines

00:00

🗣️ Mastering Impromptu Speaking

Sean K from Velocity Videos introduces three key tips for effective impromptu speaking without any preparation. He likens impromptu speaking to navigating a wilderness with a map and compass. The first tip is to remain centered and composed, moving at one's own pace to avoid being overwhelmed by external pressures. The second tip is to enjoy the speaking experience, which will help the audience enjoy it as well. The third tip is to view speaking as a win-win situation where expressing oneself is always beneficial. Sean emphasizes the importance of these tips by suggesting writing them on a note card for easy reference. He also shares a personal anecdote about feeling unprepared but learning to overcome the fear of impromptu speaking.

05:00

💡 Tips for Impactful Impromptu Speeches

The video continues with Sean K providing three specific strategies for impactful impromptu speeches. The first strategy is 'less is more,' advising speakers to be concise and leave room for the audience to digest the message. The second strategy is to start with a question to engage the audience from the beginning. The third strategy is to give a personal angle or story to make the speech unique and memorable. Sean illustrates these strategies with examples, such as discussing the meaning of a smiley face and sharing a personal family story about drawing smiley faces on dirty cars to spread happiness. He concludes by challenging viewers to practice impromptu speaking in their daily lives and emphasizes the power of contributing one's voice, even if it may tremble with nervousness.

Keywords

💡Impromptu Speaking

Impromptu speaking refers to the act of speaking without prior preparation, often in response to an unexpected request or situation. In the video, Sean K emphasizes the importance of being able to speak effectively in such scenarios, likening it to navigating through a wilderness with only a map and compass. The video's theme revolves around equipping viewers with the tools to excel in impromptu speaking, showcasing it as a valuable skill for leaders and communicators.

💡Centered

To be 'centered' in the context of the video means to maintain composure and a sense of balance, regardless of the circumstances. Sean K suggests that feeling centered is crucial for handling impromptu speaking situations. He advises moving slowly and at one's own pace to avoid being overwhelmed by external pressures, which can lead to a loss of focus and control during impromptu speeches.

💡Enjoy Yourself

Enjoying oneself is presented as a key attitude to adopt when speaking impromptu. Sean K believes that if the speaker is enjoying the process, the audience is more likely to enjoy it as well. This concept is tied to the idea that a positive and engaged speaker can create a more receptive and pleasant atmosphere for the audience, as exemplified by his advice to smile and feel good about what is being presented.

💡Win-Win

The term 'win-win' is used to describe the outcome of speaking up and sharing one's opinions, even in impromptu settings. Sean K argues that by expressing oneself, one contributes positively and learns from the experience, regardless of the response. This concept aligns with the video's overall message that speaking out is an opportunity for growth and impact, rather than a risk.

💡Less is More

In the video, 'less is more' is a principle for effective impromptu speaking, suggesting that conciseness and brevity can have a more significant impact than lengthy, rambling speeches. Sean K illustrates this by advising against excessive talking and instead recommends pausing after making a point to allow the audience to reflect and engage with the idea, thus creating a more memorable and impactful speech.

💡Start with a Question

Starting with a question is a strategy for engaging the audience right from the beginning of an impromptu speech. Sean K suggests that asking a question can pique interest and involve the audience more directly, making them feel included in the conversation. This technique is exemplified when he proposes asking about the meaning of a smiley face to get people to share personal experiences and reactions.

💡Personal Story

A personal story is a narrative that comes from one's own experiences and is used to make a speech more relatable and interesting. In the video, Sean K encourages speakers to give their 'angle' or personal perspective on a topic to differentiate their speech from others. He uses the example of his mother drawing smiley faces on dirty car windows to spread happiness, which adds a unique and personal touch to the topic of smiley faces.

💡Action Challenge

An 'action challenge' is a call to action that encourages viewers to practice and apply the tips discussed in the video. Sean K issues an action challenge to the viewers, urging them to take opportunities to speak off the cuff and to step out of their comfort zones. This concept is integral to the video's theme of empowering individuals to become confident and effective impromptu speakers.

💡Contribute

To 'contribute' in the context of the video means to add value through one's words and ideas, especially in impromptu speaking situations. Sean K emphasizes the importance of making a positive impact by sharing thoughts and opinions, suggesting that every contribution, no matter how small, has the potential to influence others. This concept is tied to the video's overarching message of the power and responsibility of effective communication.

💡Learning Experience

A 'learning experience' refers to any situation that offers the opportunity for growth and development, including impromptu speaking. Sean K frames each impromptu speaking opportunity as a chance to learn, win, and improve, regardless of the outcome. This perspective encourages a mindset of continuous improvement and embraces the idea that every speaking engagement is a chance to gain new insights and skills.

Highlights

Sean K introduces three key tips for speaking without preparation, likening it to navigating the wilderness with a map and compass.

The importance of being ready to speak impromptu, as it can make a great impression and is a skill true leaders possess.

The analogy of impromptu speaking to being dropped in the wilderness without prior knowledge.

The first tip: 'I am centered', emphasizing the need to feel poised and not rushed by external pressures.

The second tip: Enjoying the speaking process, which helps in making the audience feel good and engaged.

The third tip: Viewing speaking as a win-win situation where expressing oneself always contributes positively.

Advice on using a note card with three key ideas for success in any speaking environment.

The concept that less is more in impromptu speaking, suggesting conciseness for greater impact.

The strategy of starting with a question to engage the audience and make them feel involved.

The advice to give a personal angle or story to make the speech unique and memorable.

An example of how to make a speech about 'Don't Worry Be Happy' more engaging by being concise.

The example of asking 'What does a smiley face mean to you?' to start a speech and involve the audience.

The personal story of drawing smiley faces on dirty car windows to spread happiness.

The action challenge to practice impromptu speaking in any situation to improve contribution and participation.

The quote 'A low quivering voice is still more powerful than a thousand silent men' to encourage speaking up.

The conclusion that whatever one says can make an impact, so it's important to contribute meaningfully.

Transcripts

hey everyone this is Sean K with

velocity videos and today I'm going to

give you three RedHot tips on how you

can speak out without any preparation

zero preparation and how you can make a

great

impression I I think of impromptu

speaking kind of like going out into the

Wilderness pretend you were dropped off

in the wilderness and you didn't know

where you were right if you had a map

app and you had a compass you'd

eventually be able to get out of the

Jungle right because you could make your

way and find your way out well that's

kind of what I'm going to give you today

I'm going to give you three tools three

key things that you can do that can be

your compass or your map so no matter

what situation you're in you can get out

of the Jungle and reach a place where

you want to be have you ever been faced

with a situation where you had to give a

toast or someone last minute came up to

you and said hey I need you to speak for

a few minutes could you say a few words

now were you the person that was

welcoming it and ready to shine or were

you someone that was oh no I don't think

I'm ready I don't think I can do it I

haven't prepared because there's going

to be plenty of those opportunities and

true leaders are people that are able to

offer value you know communicate so

think of that think of speaking out as

the ultimate advantage and what I mean

by that is a lot of people are afraid to

speak out a lot of people are afraid to

offer their ideas you might be saying to

yourself well Sean

I'm not a public speaker I'm not good at

speaking without preparation I need to

prepare I felt the same way I felt the

exact same way but there are key ways

that you can look at speaking impromptu

that going to help you get a lot better

before I even get into my tips I'm going

to give you one big tip right here and

that is get a note card and write on it

three key ideas that I think are the

basis of success in any type of speaking

environment whether it's impromptu

prepared in a group environment whatever

they are these are the three top tips

number one

is I am centered no matter what get

yourself in a place where you feel

poised and centered and the best way I

found to do this is to move slowly move

at your pace do things on your terms not

other people's terms because I find

that's when people get lost when they

speak impromptu is they get lost when

they feel pressured by outside

circumstances by people in the room by

what people think by people pressuring

them that's where they feel

uncomfortable but if you feel focused if

you feel centered at all times you're

going to be able to handle any situation

any rainstorm that comes your way you're

going to be still and be able to handle

it so always think I'm always centered

no matter what second thing I tell you

to do is enjoy yourself just make sure

you have a good time because if you're

enjoying yourself the audience is going

to and what I mean by that put a smile

on your face feel good about what you're

presenting that's going to do light

yearsss for everything that you come

across with and the third piece of

advice you cannot lose it is a complete

win-win to to speak to offer your

opinion you're going to be offering your

ideas that's going to be contributing

that's going to be impacting people

you're going to be doing more good than

than not by not expressing yourself so

you can't lose you always win and you're

always learning think of it always like

a learning experience where you're

always learning so you can always

win these are the three Hot Tips number

one the first tip is less is more

I've seen countless people speaking and

I've done this many times I feel I'm

pressured by the situation I feel the

force is coming on me and I start

rambling and rambling rambling let me

give you an example let's say someone

asked you talk about happiness and talk

about Don't Worry Be Happy talk about

that phrase I could say there was this

Bobby mcfaden song called Don't Worry Be

Happy and it was written a long time ago

and blah blah blah blah blah and I could

bore you to tears or I could just say

don't worry be

happy and just pause and gets people's

reaction to that less is more speak very

concisely with your words and leave a

lot of space for people to digest at all

that's going to create a lot more impact

be very sparse in your words less is

more can create a lot more impact number

two start with a question so get people

excited by starting with a question and

involving them you could say if people

were if people were asking you about

smiley faces for example you could say

what does a smiley face mean to you have

you ever seen a smiley face and just

grinned ear to ear because it just made

you feel good has that ever happened to

anyone here by asking that question it

opens people up make makes people feel

better the third point is give your

angle your story what I mean by that is

you doing a video or you giving a speech

is just like every other speech meaning

people have given the exact speech that

you're about to give

they've said the exact content that

you're about to say think about it

there's billions of people in the world

there's probably someone that said the

exact same thing you're about to say so

what makes yours any different well the

thing that makes it different is your

story you know your angle on it so

always think when you're going into

impromptu situation how can I make it

personal how can I give my angle on it

if you do that you're going to create a

lot more interest an example is let's

say the smiley face example if I was

going to give a little mini talk on

smiley faces right I could say well you

know a smiley face it's a round circle

it's yellow and that kind of thing and

it's and that's kind of boring all right

if you talk about it like that but if I

made it a personal example and I said

you know what my mom whenever she sees a

car with dirt on the car outside or a

fogged up window what she'll do is with

her hand she'll draw a smiley face in it

to kind of pass along some happiness to

whoever finds it that's an example of a

personal story in our family like

whenever we see a dirty car we'll draw a

smiley face on it just to pass along

some good vibes how cool is that that's

a lot better example than oh a smiley

face is yellow with two dots in it and a

and a and a grin right so make it

personal bring it alive talk about it

personally my action challenge to you is

this whenever you have a chance to speak

off the cuff in any situation give it a

shot whether it's asking a question in

class or volunteering an idea whatever

you feel comfortable with but stretch

yourself a little bit try something new

to become the person that contributes

and

participates remember a low quivering

voice is still more powerful than a

thousand silent men so whatever you say

it's going to make an impact make sure

you contribute and make it important we

going to hope you enjoyed those tips go

on to the next video in this

communication series bye for now and

I'll see you

later

[Music]