Most of my public speaking clients don’t like to open their mouths unless they have something important to say.
And while I generally agree that the world doesn’t need more blather, there is one time when saying inconsequential things will build your ability to ultimately say what matters:
To Master the Instant Speech, Say Inconsequential Things
The Instant Speech is a format that lets you talk to almost anyone about almost anything under almost any circumstance.
An Instant Speech consists of a key message, three supporting points, and a repeat of the key message (which reinforces it).
The versatility and effectiveness of this format make it well worth mastering, and you can do that by taking a few seconds to make one short Instant Speech every day, perhaps while you’re also practicing your public speaking Avatar!
(For more about instant speeches, check out these blog posts, or see Chapters 4-6 of my public speaking workbook, Speak Like Yourself…No, Really!)
Instant Speeches aren’t hard.
But what (you may be wondering) do you make your daily Instant Speeches about?
The answer is, make them about something silly. Why?
- For most people, inconsequential topics come more easily to mind.
- It’s easier to get a smooth flow when your Instant Speech is on a light topic; and most importantly,
- When you’re making a silly Instant Speech, you’re practicing the format instead of trying to make an elegant or complicated point.
That’s why, when you’re practicing Instant Speeches, it’s better to make them about something silly.
(Yes, I just did that.)
Here are some other examples:
An Inconsequential Instant Speech About an Object in Your Environment:
This bureau looks old.
* It needs repainting.
* The metal fittings are tarnished, and
* Replacing the handles would be good.
This bureau looks old, and I should probably fix it.
An Inconsequential Instant Speech About a National Event:
I can’t wait for Thanksgiving!
* My daughter and her boyfriend will be here.
* My brother-in-law cooks a mean turkey, and
* It’s a great excuse to eat too much pie.
I can’t wait for Thanksgiving to get here!
An Inconsequential Instant Speech About an Activity:
Get Out is an amazing movie.
* The acting is great,
* The plot is frightening, but
* It’s really funny.
Get Out is an amazing movie, and I hope you get to see it.
See how that’s done?
Public Speaking Practice Can Actually Be Fun!
Inconsequential topics are everywhere around you, and you can make an Instant Speech almost any time. (“Baby, you’re the best. You’re sweet, sexy, and scintillating — you’re the best!”)
The key is to remember that you’re not practicing to become more profound. You’re practicing a simple public speaking format, so that it springs easily to mind when you need it to say something that matters.
Enjoy!
See All 100 Top Public Speaking Tips Here
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In 25 years of speaker coaching, I’ve helped my individual speaker coaching clients develop their strengths and skills to become authentic and effective communicators.
Along the way, I’ve developed tips for everything from small talk to speaking up in meetings, from managing fear to making an impact.
And now, I’ve shared it all in 100 Top Public Speaking Tips: The Book. This beautifully designed PDF booklet is searchable, clickable, and categorized, so that you can find what you need, instantly.