Overview
This lecture covers techniques and strategies for effective speaking in spontaneous situations, focusing on managing anxiety, mindset shifts, attentive listening, and applying simple structures for clear communication.
Importance of Spontaneous Speaking
- Spontaneous speaking is more common than planned presentations in professional settings.
- Examples include introductions, feedback, surprise toasts, and Q&A sessions.
Managing Speaking Anxiety
- 85% of people feel nervous about public speaking; managing anxiety—rather than eliminating it—is key.
- Greet your anxiety and acknowledge it as normal to prevent escalation.
- Reframe speaking as a conversation, not a performance.
- Use present-oriented techniques (e.g., tongue twisters, light exercise) to stay focused and reduce worry about future outcomes.
Four Steps to Effective Spontaneous Speaking
1. Get Out of Your Own Way
- Overthinking and striving for perfection hinder spontaneity.
- Practice letting go by engaging in activities like "shout the wrong name" to train your brain to be more flexible.
- Maxim: "Dare to be dull"—allow yourself to be average to reduce pressure and improve performance.
2. Reframe as an Opportunity
- View spontaneous speech as an opportunity, not a threat.
- Use activities like exchanging imaginary gifts to practice embracing and adapting to surprises.
- Maxim: "Yes, and..."—adopt a collaborative and open approach in communication.
3. Slow Down and Listen
- Take time to fully understand the situation or question before responding.
- Practice deep listening with activities (e.g., spelling out words) to slow down and focus on the interaction.
- Maxim: "Don't just do something, stand there"—pause, listen, then respond.
4. Use Simple Structures
- Structure improves clarity, recall, and audience engagement.
- Two common structures:
- Problem, Solution, Benefit
- What, So What, Now What
- Practice structuring responses to common objects or topics to build skill.
Handling Difficult or Specialized Situations
- Anticipate and acknowledge emotion in hostile settings before reframing and responding.
- For remote audiences, use engagement techniques (imagination, polls, collaborative docs).
- For cross-examination, have key themes and use paraphrasing to clarify and buy time.
- Adjust for cultural norms by understanding your audience’s expectations.
- Use humor carefully; self-deprecating humor is safest, and always have a backup plan.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Spontaneous Speaking — Speaking off the cuff without prior preparation.
- Processing Fluency — The ease with which information is understood and remembered.
- Paraphrasing — Restating a question or statement to clarify and gain time to respond.
- "Yes, and..." — An improvisational technique for building on ideas collaboratively.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice anxiety management techniques before your next speaking opportunity.
- Try the "shout the wrong name" and imaginary gift activities to loosen up.
- Use structured frameworks (Problem-Solution-Benefit, What-So What-Now What) in daily conversations.
- Review the handout or website for additional frameworks and resources.