The key to tackling spontaneous speaking situations
March 21, 2018
By Brian Maynor
Most of the time we get to prepare for speaking engagements, but occasionally they happen to us spontaneously.
When we find ourselves in these unplanned spotlight situations, trying to explain something to others it can be unnerving, terrifying and we can ultimately miss an opportunity to show our greatness.
These speaking engagements may not be formal, but they are nevertheless important, so being articulate and composed is paramount. Especially given the limited time to both prepare and present.
The two main objectives whenever we’re speaking are figuring out what to say and how to say it, and they key to both is having a structure. Here are a few template structures that will help us achieve these objectives and stay calm:
1. What? So What? Now What? This three-question structure is great when we are faced with answering questions. The ‘What?” addresses the immediate circumstance. The ‘So What?’ looks at why it’s important. And the ‘Now What?’ offers a plan of action for next steps.
2. Problem/Opportunity. Solution. Benefit. This is another powerful structure that is simple to remember and use. It can be extremely effective in persuasive speaking. The talking points are pretty straightforward: Start with the issue (or opportunity), then talk about the steps to overcome (or achieve) it, and close with the ultimate benefits.
3. ADD. This is a great structure for question/answer situations whether it’s in a presentation or interview. First, Answer the question directly and succinctly. Second, Detail your answer with an example or illustration. And finally, Describe the importance or value of the answer to the asker.
4. What? Why? How? This is an easy structure to use when we’re in a feedback situation and have to respond immediately. This structure isn’t just for formal feedback, because we should be constantly scanning and evaluating the feedback we receive from the people around us, our environment, and situations. The first step is to figure out ‘What’ is going on. From there, we can ask ‘Why’ is it happening to get to the ‘How’ we can make things better.
Whether it’s a planned speech or not, having a solid structure will help us feel more comfortable when we’re speaking. The structure also weaves together thoughts; ideas and outcomes in a story format that helps us explain things quickly and succinctly. Any one of these examples is a great way to avoid being caught off-guard or shy away from speaking out when the opportunity arises.
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I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.
About Brian Maynor
Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.
