Dec 13 06
CommTips #5: Impromptu Speaking
By Maureen Taylor
As a communicator, you never know when you’ll be called upon to give an on-the-spot opinion, or asked to participate in an impromptu speaking engagement.
Giving an opinion on the spot leaves many of us rambling or frantically searching for how best to present our thoughts. Below is a simple format that can help you present a clear statement of your point of view even under pressure.
- I have something to say about… (topic)
- The way I see it…(Here is where you state your specific recommendation or point of view)
- The reason I say that is…(This is where you back up your statement with supporting evidence. Don’t make this too long or detailed)
- So that’s why I say… (Here is the place to restate your recommendation or point of view as a way wrapping it up)
This formula is an easy-to-remember way to organize your thoughts and present a clear opinion. In short, you’re following the SNP method for all speaking opportunities:
- Tell them what you’re going to tell them (the way I see it …)
- Tell them (the reason I say that is …)
- Tell them what you told them (so that’s why I say …)
Have more questions on speaking, or are you interested in personal coaching to become a better presenter? Feel free to email us or call us at 415-343-3939.
[...] Noted communication expert Shel Holtz joins us to discuss his recent book The Intranet Advantage. Renn Vara talks to Shel about how to properly use Intranets for corporate communication, and how to use them as part of an internal strategy as opposed to the entire strategy itself. Content includes RSS, intranets, landing pages, blogs and more. Click here to play this interview. Renn also provides a communication tip (see our CommTips blog for more), giving a simple method for formatting impromptu speaking ops. Called upon to talk at a meeting? To present unexpectely? Listen to this tip. [...]