Preparing For Impromptu Speaking - Is That Possible?

Image : http://www.flickr.com

For most people, presenting themselves carries much preparation with it. They are requested to speak at a function, and get as much information as possible about the group of people to whom they will speak. If they are not a subject matter expert, they may have to do some research on the topic of discussion. Before the actual day of the presentation, all effective speakers know that they must practice, practice, and practice some more. This practice is best done with the use of a video camera and if possible, friends and others who can be a "mock" audience. And although not always feasible, a visit to the facility at which they will present can help speakers tremendously prior to the delivery of their address. Even something as arriving early to the event can help you scope out the room and test any audio-visual equipment you may need to use in your presentation.

Generally, event planners who invite others to speak attempt to give those speakers plenty of time to get things together before the big day. Having time to prepare and practice can go a long way to assist a presenter in working "with" nervous energy and feeling more comfortable no matter what size audience there will be.

But what happens when you as the presenter are asked to be interviewed on a radio or TV show? These types of media presentations are typically in a question and answer format, so how do you prepare?

One thing you can do ahead of time is ask your host for a list of questions that will be asked of you. Inquire as to whether there will be any impromptu questions posed to you. Although you can't always prepare for every single question or prompt that may be offered to you, there are some things you can do to be as prepared as possible:

1. Review any questions you have been asked before, whether in formal interviews or just from friends and colleagues about your subject.
2. Get a friend to engage in a "mock" interview with you and allow that person to ask you any question about your topic that comes to mind.
3. Make a list of ten things you think your host may ask you and practice answering those points.
4. Whenever you practice impromptu speaking, have a timer handy and try to provide your answer in a maximum of 2 minutes.

Being interviewed can be one of the most rewarding public speaking experiences you'll ever have, and being prepared for it will make you feel better and more than likely get you more interviews!

http://www.prescoach.com
As a 30+ year professional development trainer and Distinguished Toastmaster, I have helped thousands of people hone their presentations skills. Need to make a presentation because the boss asked you to? Want to make a presentation to one of your associations or clubs? Even when you don't make presentations often, learning how to do it right can help you with the fear and the preparation.
Contact me if I can help walk you through those critical first steps to successfully communicating. Lets chat @ http://turelmyblog.wordpress.com