Off the cuff

Impromptu speaking can strike fear in the most polished communicator. Last night the Dale Carnegie class I'm coaching reached week 6. This is where speaking off the cuff is the main skill the students practice.

I would like to offer some suggestions for those put on the spot to say a word or two.

• You have a wide range of life experiences to draw so chances are you have some coherent thoughts on many subjects. Share them proudly!
• Use the "bridge" to take you from a subject you know little about and relate it to something you DO know. Try..."that reminds me of a time when..." Then talk about what you do know.
• Word association can help as well. What pops into your mind when a subject is mentioned? As long it is appropriate for the situation, let it lead you to your words.
• A pause before speaking helps you gather your thoughts. Take that moment!
• Be yourself. No one else in this world has the same experience to share.

Now that wasn't so bad, was it?