Imagine that just as you arrive at a 25th anniversary dinner for your favorite aunt and uncle, your mother asks if you’ll “say a few words” about the couple after dessert is served. You scan the room of more than 50 guests and nervously agree to do it. Responding to your mom’s request requires impromptu speaking—making public remarks with little or no time for preparation or rehearsal.

Although daunting, there are ways you can handle impromptu speaking situations. First, anticipate as much as possible occasions where you might be asked to say something. If you know people will be making speeches at the anniversary dinner and you are especially close with your aunt and uncle, might you be expected to say a few words? Second, keep your message brief, and don’t apologize for being unprepared. Third, identify a central point you want to make, and provide two or three illustrative points or facts to back you up. Fourth, restate your central point as your conclusion. If you have the time, compose a brief speaking outline to help keep you focused. For most impromptu situations, providing a small amount of information should satisfy your audience. No one expects you to give a long, detailed speech on a moment’s notice.

Because it’s almost impossible to rehearse impromptu speeches, you can practice this type of speaking in other ways. Take advantage of opportunities that allow you to present your ideas in front of large groups, such as contributing to class discussions or work meetings. You’ll gain experience thinking quickly on your feet, and grow more comfortable speaking on a moment’s notice. Additionally, the How to Communicate feature in Chapter 14 (pp. 356–357) will help you develop your skills with a special type of impromptu speech known as an elevator speech.