1. When you first hear the topic - smile, it will make you feel good and
   look confident

2. Immediately decide if you strongly like or dislike the topic. Go in
   that direction; your emotion will fuel your thoughts.

3. Begin by stating, "There are 3 things that come to mind about this
   topic" - even if you can't think of 3 things when you start. As you
   speak you will search for 3 key ideas and thus give your response
   apparent structure.

4. Try the pro / Con method. State the pros, then state the cons. Then
   clarify your position, by supporting one side more than the other.

5. When your mind goes blank and you don't know what to say next, smile,
   look at the audience and pause (breathe). The audience will review your
   last words & reflect on how profound they were. This will give you time
   to plan your next words.

6. If the pause & smile don't get you going, repeat the topic or your
   last point in a different way.

7. Look for a lesson in the word; relate it to a book you've read, a TV
   show, daily news, your work or your hobby.

8. Bring your family into the topic. It is a universal way to relate to
   people. When you talk of family, be sure to use their names, it creates
   a stronger emotional picture for the audience.

9. Use the topic as a channel to your main message. Politicians do this
   all the time, make the transition smooth and the audience will go with
   you.

10. Use humor. When the audience laughs with you, they relax and so do
    you.

By G.Torok, CTM, Skyway Club, Canada