
HBR IdeaCast
Improve Your Impromptu Speaking
Sep 26, 2023
Matt Abrahams, a Stanford lecturer and host of Think Fast, Talk Smart, shares invaluable tips on mastering impromptu speaking. He discusses how to manage anxiety and develop agility in unexpected speaking situations. Abrahams emphasizes the need for brevity and engagement, and offers techniques for creating impactful elevator pitches. He highlights the importance of nonverbal communication and active listening, while introducing a unique framework called 'pace, space, grace' to help enhance confidence in spontaneous interactions.
29:29
Episode guests
AI Summary
Highlights
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- 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.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.