Have you ever panicked when suddenly asked to speak at an event or meeting?
Speaking in public is scary enough even when you’ve had time to prepare. And worse when it’s impromptu, right?
So here’s a quick tip from a recent experience.
Attending a Tokyo University Executive Management Program gathering, I was asked to give a few words as one of the lecturers.
What to say in front of this audience of amazing academics and brilliant business brains???
The gentleman who had spoken immediately before me was an architect, and he had talked briefly about how leader can use space effectively.
So, during my presentation, I referred to that and added that it’s also important to use your space effectively when presenting. I demonstrated using space by taking a few steps around the stage area and opening my arms (cue smiles and chuckles from the audience). I linked this to what students were learning in my lecture on presentation skills during the program.
In short, one way that you can feel more confident during impromptu speaking is if you listen to what someone else said and connect your topic to it.
Four Advantages of Linking Topics
- It shows you were listening and makes others feel good.
- It helps people to make a connection in their mind, which makes you and your words more memorable.
- It makes you look like a good public speaker.
- It helps you to feel more confident.
Just pick one simple thing that someone said, and link to it. You don’t need to think of anything complex or clever.
Listen always. Then, if you are suddenly asked to speak, you can stand up and shine. 🙂
Learn about How to Avoid the 5 Biggest Presentation Mistakes here in English and here in Japanese.
Thanks, Tokyo University Executive Management Program, for the photo.