Impromptu Speaking

Summary

This Toastmasters International video offers invaluable tips for impromptu speaking, a skill crucial in various settings like business and social events. It introduces the PREP formula (Point, Reason, Example, Point) and the Pros vs. Cons method to structure impromptu speeches effectively. The video emphasizes the importance of practice and provides strategies to avoid common pitfalls like rambling. For further development, it encourages joining a Toastmasters Club.

Takeaways

• 🎤 **Toastmasters International**: A platform since 1924 that has helped over 4 million people to improve their communication skills.
• 🗣️ **Impromptu Speaking Opportunities**: Common places include business meetings, conference calls, and social events like weddings and birthdays.
• 🤔 **Identifying Opportunities**: Recognize everyday situations like interacting with bank tellers or strangers as chances to practice impromptu speaking.
• 📈 **Technique: PREP Formula**: A method to structure impromptu speeches with Point, Reason, Example, and Point, suitable for business and formal settings.
• 🔍 **Pros vs Cons Method**: An alternative approach to manage speaking time by discussing the positive and negative aspects of a topic, followed by a recommendation.
• 👨‍🏫 **Personal Stories**: Use personal anecdotes to open your speech and engage the audience by acting as a moderator to extend speaking time if necessary.
• 🎯 **Mastering Impromptu Speaking**: The key is practice; embrace imperfection and focus on delivering with confidence rather than striving for perfection.
• 📝 **Avoiding Rambling**: To prevent going off track, draft an outline or notes before speaking to keep your ideas organized and on point.
• 💡 **Tips and Techniques**: Incorporate the strategies discussed to build confidence and improve the ability to speak spontaneously.
• 🌐 **Toastmasters Resources**: For further development, visit a local Toastmasters Club or www.toastmasters.org for more information on impromptu speaking.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the video featuring Johnny?

The purpose of the video is to help viewers improve their impromptu speaking skills by providing tips and techniques from Toastmasters International, which has been helping people gain confidence in communication since 1924.

What are some common situations where impromptu speaking can be beneficial?

Impromptu speaking can be beneficial in social situations like weddings and birthdays, as well as in business meetings and conference calls.

What is the PREP formula mentioned in the script and how does it help in impromptu speaking?

The PREP formula stands for Point, Reason, Example, and Point. It helps structure an impromptu speech by starting with a clear point, explaining the reason for the topic, providing examples, and concluding with a restatement of the main point.

How does the Pros versus Cons method work in managing impromptu speaking time?

The Pros versus Cons method involves first addressing the positive aspects (pros) of an issue, then discussing the negative aspects (cons), and finally wrapping up with a recommendation based on the discussion.

What advice does the script give for someone who has to fill in for a speaker at short notice?

The script suggests that if you have to fill in for a speaker, think quickly about how to open and close your speech, consider sharing personal stories, and engage the audience by acting as a moderator to extend speaking time if necessary.

How can one avoid rambling during an impromptu speech?

To avoid rambling, the script advises drafting an outline before speaking, which can help keep the speech focused and on track, even if it's not always possible to prepare one.

What is the key to mastering impromptu speaking according to the video?

The key to mastering impromptu speaking is to practice in real-time situations, embracing the challenge and not stressing over perfection.

Why is it important to have fun while delivering an impromptu speech?

Having fun while delivering an impromptu speech can reduce stress and make the speaker more approachable, which is likely to be appreciated by the audience.

What is the role of Toastmasters International in helping people with public speaking?

Toastmasters International provides a supportive environment where people can practice and improve their public speaking and leadership skills through impromptu speaking opportunities and structured feedback.

How can one find a Toastmasters Club to practice impromptu speaking?

One can find a Toastmasters Club by visiting www.toastmasters.org and using the location finder to locate a club near them.