How to succeed in your career


Five Secrets to Thinking on Your Feet

Many times we are put into situations* Allows you to take control of the
where we are asked a question and needquestion by rephrasing the question to a
to give an answer on the spot, or "thinkmore positive light if needed.
on your feet." It could be a sales or* Enables everyone, if in a public
customer service situation, your managersetting, to hear the question.
asking you for a progress report, a4. Focus on One Main Point and Support
request for your ideas on a newIt
community project, or a job interview.The number one reason why we sometimes
During these times we can feel thefreeze up when asked to think on our
pressure. Our heart begins to race, wefeet is because we have so many ideas
start to sweat, we feel our kneesrunning around in our minds. We don't
knocking, or we want to hide under aknow which idea to mention.
rock. This is because sometimes theHere's the solution: Go with the first
answer we give could mean that big sale,idea that comes to mind and say it. By
the customer being satisfied, asticking with that one point you can
promotion or raise, or that dream job.focus on two or three supporting points.
The following are five secrets to helpYou sound more direct and confident
you master your "thinking on your feet"when giving your answer.
skills:5. Summarize and Stop (SAS)
1. ListenEnd your answer with some SAS (Summarize
Many times when we are in a highand Stop). Give your answer, summarize,
pressure situation where we are soand stop. Don't apologize and don't
nervous we really don't hear the actualramble on beyond the finish. Try this
question. Been there, done that. Totrick: repeat the essence of the
make sure we understand the question andquestion. For example, you may be
give the right answer do the following:asked, "Why did you stop the project?"
- Breathe slower (Benefit: Relaxes bodyIn your summary you might say, "And
and mind).that's why we decided to start another
- Look directly at the questioner.project." Then stop.
(Benefit: Increases comprehension.)Give your answer, let them know the end
- Ask questions (Benefit: increasesis near by saying:
clarity and shows you are listening)."In summary..."
2. Pause to Organize"In conclusion..."
It is okay to pause. Pause to gatherThen simply stop. Remember SAS.
your thoughts. When you pause you lookApply these techniques so that you can
and sound poised and in control.become a master at "thinking on your
Remember, there is power in silence.feet" and give great answers. You can
3. Repeat the Questionpractice these skills by joining
This has several benefits:Toastmasters. In their meetings they
* Buys you time to think.have an exercise called "table topics,"
* Communicates a complete piece ofin which you can practice this skill in
information.a supportive environment.



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