by Rob McLeod
Public speaking and thinking on your feet can be daunting, whether you’re presenting at work or striking up a conversation with a stranger. The good news is, with a few simple techniques, you can become more confident and effective in all types of communication. Here are three tips to help you improve:
1. Practice Active Listening
Great conversations start with good listening. When you’re actively engaged with what the other person is saying, it helps you respond thoughtfully and with confidence. Whether it’s in a formal speech or an informal chat, listening closely ensures you’re focused, present, and able to connect meaningfully.
2. Organize Your Thoughts Quickly
Thinking on your feet is a skill you can build. One method is to structure your responses using a simple formula: Problem, Action, Result. If someone asks you a question or presents a challenge, break your answer into these three parts. It will help you sound clear and organized, even if you’re speaking off the cuff.
3. Make Eye Contact and Smile
Whether you’re speaking to a crowd or meeting someone new, eye contact and a smile go a long way in building confidence and rapport. It shows that you’re approachable, engaged, and comfortable, which encourages others to connect with you.
By practicing these tips, you’ll improve your public speaking, think more clearly on the spot, and feel more confident in social settings. Join us at High Riser Toastmasters every Thursday from 7:15 to 8:15 pm at the Bridgeland-Riverside Community Association Centre. Our supportive meetings are free for guests, so you can experience the benefits firsthand.
Take the first step toward becoming a confident communicator—your voice matters, and we’re here to help! Find out more at highriser.toastmastersclubs.org.
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