Delivery Formats — Impromptu, Prepared, Manuscript
Factors Affecting Delivery
Delivery Factors
Your approach to delivery of the spoken message is usually affected by several factors, including:
- The time you have to prepare
- The nature of the message
Three Common Formats
Three Common Delivery Formats.
- Impromptu
- Prepared
- Manuscript
Impromptu
Impromptu Definition
Impromptu speaking is when we:
- Respond during a meeting
- "Take the floor" at a conference
When Impromptu Happens
Impromptu Triggers
Speakers may do this when they have to speak publicly without warning or with only a few moments' notice.
Required Skills
Impromptu Skills Required
To do impromptu speaking well requires:
- A great amount of self-confidence
- Mastery of the subject
- The ability to "think on your feet"
Highest Skill Level
Highest Verbal Level
A superb impromptu speaker has achieved the highest level in verbal communications.
Prepared
Prepared Definition
Prepared speaking or briefing refers to those times when we have ample opportunity to prepare.
Not Memorized
Not Memorized
This does NOT mean the person writes a script and memorizes it, but prepared delivery does require:
- A thorough outline
- Careful planning
- Practicing
Spontaneous Words
Words Spontaneous
The specific words and phrases used at the time of delivery are spontaneous and sound very natural.
Manuscript
Manuscript Definition
A manuscript briefing is the delivery format that requires every word spoken to be absolutely perfect.
Disadvantages
Manuscript Disadvantages
The disadvantage of a manuscript briefing is that people demonstrate a tendency to:
- Lack spontaneity
- Lack eye contact
- Stand behind the lectern with their script
Audience Risk
Audience Loss Risk
These mannerisms may have a tendency of losing the audience's attention.