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What most people get wrong: Impromptu speaking isn’t about “thinking fast.” It’s about choosing a structure fast. When people freeze or spiral, it’s usually because they’re trying to invent content and organize it at the same time.
A better approach: default to a framework. Here are a few practical tips you can use the moment you’re put on the spot:
Buy yourself two seconds
- Take a breath, smile, and repeat the question (or summarize it). It helps you think — and it signals confidence.
Pick a structure before you pick your words
- Use one of these go-to frameworks:
- Point → Reason → Example → Point (PREP)
- 3-part list (Three is memorable)
- Past → Present → Future
- Problem → Options → Recommendation
Start with your headline
- Lead with the one sentence you want them to remember. Then support it.Â
Make it concrete fast
- Add one example, number, or quick story. Specifics make you sound prepared.
Use signposts so people can follow
- Say things like: “There are two parts to this…” / “First…” / “The main takeaway is…” Clarity reads as confidence.
Keep your sentences shorter than you think
- When you’re nervous, you’ll naturally speed up and over-explain. Short sentences keep you in control.
Land the plane
- End with a crisp close: the recommendation, the next step, or the takeaway. Don’t trail off.
If you want to go deeper with your team, we recommend the full Soft Skills toolkit, which includes a workshop on Speaking with Clarity & Confidence. You can purchase one for $249 here.
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