Business Speeches - 5 Big Blunders

Five little words can strike terror in many executives' hearts. They are "just say a few words".
What are the five biggest blunders people make when they give an impromptu speech like that?

5. They start by saying they don't know what to say. This may indeed be true, but it is terrible for your image, and what audience wants to hear it?
4. They repeat themselves, often many times, in their presentation.
3. They say exactly the same thing as the other speakers, who were also asked to "say a few words".
2. They speak much too long. An unknown sage suggested,
"Be brief, be brilliant, and be seated!" A few words translates into 1-2 minutes, in terms of a speech.
1. They should have anticipated having to talk, and prepared something. (If they were not asked to talk then, no-one needed to know they were prepared, and the practice would help them for the next time.) If nothing else, they should have a mental outline of the three things they would say, such as why the occasion is special, thanks to all who helped, and what the audience should anticipate happening next for the cause or event.

We have all suffered through listening to politicians or other leaders who were inept public speakers. A little preparation on the part of the potential speaker can make a huge difference!