Do you feel the heat when confronted with an informal speaking situation like a brainstorming session or a Q and A session? Some folks excel at planned speeches, but freeze up when confronted with the need to think on their feet. Consider these three tips for speaking well in an impromptu speaking setting:

1. Rule number one about impromptu speeches…they don’t exist . Mark Twain once said “It usually takes me about three weeks to prepare a good impromptu speech”. Your colleague who comes up with great answers to impromptu questions in business meetings..? He’s been planning his answers for a few days. You should do the same. Keep a folder on your computer or tablet that has information that might help you answer impromptu question in business meetings; news articles, peer journals, etc. Review it once a week.

2. Anticipate when you might be called upon in a meeting. Put together a list of questions that you might be asked in a meeting, and sketch out a few short bullet points answering each question. Review your answers out loud to your spouse, friend, or best of all, yours truly , three or four times to build confidence.

3. If called upon, TAKE YOUR TIME , much more time than you’re taking currently (nobody will think you’re a slow poke) and structure your answer. Time patterns work pretty well. What are the past, present and future ramifications of the issue at hand? Then take another breath, and answer with confidence!