TIPS ON HOW TO DELIVER IMPROMPTU SPEECH
1. Stay Calm and Composed
Take a Deep Breath: Give yourself a moment to collect your
thoughts.
Stay Positive: Remind yourself that you are capable of handling
the situation.
2. Understand the Topic
Clarify if Necessary: If the topic is given to you and is unclear,
ask for clarification.
Quickly Brainstorm: Think about the main points related to the
topic.
3. Structure Your Speech
Introduction: Start with a hook to grab attention. A relevant
quote, a short anecdote, or a rhetorical question can work well.
Body: Aim for 2-3 main points. Use examples or personal
experiences to support each point.
Conclusion: Summarize your main points and end with a strong
closing statement.
4. Use a Framework
PREP Method: Point, Reason, Example, Point. State your main
point, explain why it’s important, give an example, and restate your
point.
Past-Present-Future: Describe how the topic relates to the past,
present, and future.
5Ws and H: Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How. This can
help you cover different aspects of the topic.
5. Speak Clearly and Confidently
Pace Yourself: Don’t rush. Speak at a moderate pace to ensure
clarity.
Project Your Voice: Make sure you’re loud enough to be heard by
everyone in the room.
Maintain Eye Contact: Engage with your audience by looking
around the room.
6. Use Gestures and Body Language
Natural Gestures: Use your hands to emphasize points, but don’t
overdo it.
Open Posture: Stand straight and face your audience, appearing
open and approachable.
7. Be Authentic
Speak from the Heart: Authenticity resonates with the audience.
Share your true thoughts and feelings.
Be Yourself: Don’t try to imitate someone else’s speaking style.
Let your personality shine through.
Stick to the tru th: No need to embellish, exaggerate or
stretch the truth. The truth is always good enough.
Sha re from p erson a l exp erien ces. When you speak from
personal experience, then you are referring to things that you
intimately know. No need to research, no need to investigate, and
no need to memorize anything.
8. Manage Anxiety
Practice Deep Breathing: Helps to calm nerves.
Visualize Success: Picture yourself delivering a successful
speech.
9. Adapt to Feedback
Read the Room: Pay attention to the audience’s reactions and
adjust your speech accordingly.
Be Flexible: If something isn’t working, be ready to pivot to
another point or approach.
10. Practice Regularly
• Join a Speaking Club: Organizations like Toastmasters provide
great opportunities for practice.
• Impromptu Drills: Practice with friends or colleagues by having
them give you random topics to speak on.
By following these tips, you can improve your ability to deliver
impromptu speeches effectively. Remember, practice and experience
will build your confidence and enhance your skills over time.
