Matt Abrahams, lecturer at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and host of the podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart, shares practical advice on impromptu speaking. He discusses the importance of spontaneity, provides a simple structure for spontaneous communication, strategies for being concise, the significance of listening, and tips for improving impromptu speaking skills.
Spontaneous speaking is crucial for leaders and managers to effectively answer questions, give feedback, and engage in small talk.
To improve impromptu speaking, practice deep belly breaths and staying focused on the present moment to manage anxiety and deliver concise responses.
Deep dives
The Importance of Spontaneous Speaking
Spontaneous speaking is crucial for leaders and managers as it is prevalent in personal and professional lives. It is often overlooked in favor of planned communication but is necessary for answering questions, giving feedback, and making small talk. Matt Abrahams, a lecturer at Stanford University, highlights the significance of focusing on impromptu speaking.
The Key Differences Between Prepared and Spontaneous Speaking
Prepared speaking follows a script and a structure, while spontaneous speaking requires agility and adaptability. Matt Abrahams compares it to playing a sport, where one needs to adjust their approach based on the moment. Spontaneous speaking also requires managing anxiety, which can be achieved through deep belly breaths and focusing on the present moment.
Strategies for Improving Spontaneous Speaking
Anyone can improve their ability to speak on the spot with practice and the use of effective structures. Matt Abrahams suggests using back-pocket questions, pausing to gather thoughts, and paraphrasing to buy time and provide clarity. Additionally, utilizing structures like 'What, So What, Now What' or 'What If, So That, For Example, And That's Not All' help in organizing and delivering concise and effective responses.
We all know that leaders need to captivate audiences and effectively convey their ideas. But not every speaking opportunity can be prepared and practiced. That's why it's so important to learn the skill of speaking off-the-cuff, and Matt Abrahams, lecturer at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and host of the podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart, has advice to help. He explains how to stay calm in these situations, craft a compelling message, and ensure you've made a good impression. Abrahams is author of the book Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You’re Put on the Spot as well as the HBR article “How to Shine When You’re Put on the Spot.”
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