Impromptu
by Judith Humphrey · Judith Humphrey
Judith Humphrey, founder of the leadership communications firm The Humphrey Group, presents a method for speaking well without preparation in meetings, hallway conversations, and Q&A. Readers learn a simple script structure for turning unplanned remarks into a clear, persuasive message.
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More resources on Impromptu Speaking
toastmasters.org
Toastmasters.org is the official site of Toastmasters International, a nonprofit network that helps people improve public speaking and leadership through local clubs and a structured education program. It provides program descriptions, Pathways learning resources, club finder, event information, and practical tips for speeches and leadership development.
r/PublicSpeaking Wiki
Community-curated resources for impromptu (site search top result)
Think Fast, Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
TEDx talk by Matt Abrahams on impromptu speaking frameworks (highly upvoted in r/PublicSpeaking)
Think Fast, Talk Smart: The Podcast
Stanford Graduate School of Business podcast hosted by strategic communication lecturer Matt Abrahams, interviewing researchers and practitioners. Episodes give concrete techniques for speaking without preparation, managing anxiety, giving feedback, and structuring a message for a specific audience. Transcripts available.
Speak Like Churchill, Stand Like Lincoln
James Humes, a former White House speechwriter, distills 21 techniques drawn from Churchill, Lincoln, and other historic orators. Readers learn to open strongly, use pauses, quotations, and memorable phrasing, and deliver remarks with authority in meetings and speeches.
The Quick and Easy Way to Effective Speaking
Dale Carnegie's public speaking method, revised by Dorothy Carnegie from his long-running course. It teaches how to build confidence before an audience, prepare and organize talks, speak without notes, and deliver short unplanned remarks with conviction.