Thinking on your feet isn't a gift.
It's a skill you can master.
Those who master impromptu speaking command respect in every room they enter while the rest fade into forgettable background noise.
What infuriates me is the dangerous lie we've been sold: that quick thinking is some magical talent you're either born with or not.
Absolute nonsense.
The truth? Most people freeze when put on the spot because they've never developed their mental muscles.
They've never learned these 6 proven techniques:
- Pause Purposefully: Weak communicators rush. Strong ones own the silence. It feels like eternity to you. No one else notices.
- Structure Your Response: "What-Why-How" is your new best friend. While others ramble aimlessly, you'll deliver clarity that demands attention.
- Reframe Anxiety: That racing heartbeat? Society taught you to call it fear. I call it your body's natural performance enhancer.
- Ask Clarifying Questions: The person who asks questions controls the conversation. Use this power.
- Connect Through Stories: Facts tell, stories sell. In a world drowning in information, emotion cuts through the noise. Have 3-5 core stories ready for any situation.
- Use "Yes, and...": Build bridges, not walls. Even when disagreeing, find common ground first. Confrontation creates resistance. Connection creates influence.
These aren't secrets.
They're choices.
Choices most people are too comfortable or too scared to make.
I used to dread being called on unexpectedly.
Now I welcome it.
The difference?
Treating each opportunity to speak as a chance to practice, not perform.
Stop hiding behind preparation.
The most valuable words you'll ever speak are the ones you didn't plan for.
What's your go-to technique when put on the spot?
Inspired by Matt Abrahams' "Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You're Put on the Spot" and brought to you by Omar's Desk
PS: I will take a LinkedIn break from March 15th to March 30th.
