During these times we can feel the pressure. Our heartbegins to race, we start to sweat, we feel our knees knocking,or we want to hide under a rock. This is because sometimesthe answer we give could mean that big sale, the customerbeing satisfied, a promotion or raise, or that dream job.

The following are five secrets to help you master your?thinking on your feet? skills:

1.Listen

Many times when we are in a high pressure situation wherewe are so nervous we really don't hear the actual question.Been there, done that. To make sure we understand thequestion and give the right answer do the following:

?Breathe slower (Benefit: Relaxes body and mind).

?Look directly at the questioner. (Benefit: Increasescomprehension.)

?Ask questions (Benefit: increases clarity and shows youare listening).

2.Pause to Organize

It is okay to pause. Pause to gather your thoughts. Whenyou pause you look and sound poised and in control.Remember, there is power in silence.

3.Repeat the Question

This has several benefits:

*Buys you time to think.

*Communicates a complete piece of information.

*Allows you to take control of the question by rephrasingthe question to a more positive light if needed.

*Enables everyone, if in a public setting, to hear thequestion.

4.Focus on One Main Point and Support It

The number one reason why we sometimes freeze up whenasked to think on our feet is because we have so many ideasrunning around in our minds. We don't know which idea tomention.

Here's the solution: Go with the first idea that comes to mindand say it. By sticking with that one point you can focus ontwo or three supporting points. You sound more direct andconfident when giving your answer.

5.Summarize and Stop (SAS)

End your answer with some SAS (Summarize and Stop). Giveyour answer, summarize, and stop. Don't apologize anddon't ramble on beyond the finish. Try this trick: repeat theessence of the question. For example, you may be asked,?Why did you stop the project?? In your summary youmight say, ?And that's why we decided to start anotherproject.? Then stop.

Give your answer, let them know the end is near by saying:

?In summary??

?In conclusion??

Then simply stop. Remember SAS.

Apply these techniques so that you can become a master at?thinking on your feet? and give great answers. You canpractice these skills by joining Toastmasters. In theirmeetings they have an exercise called ?table topics,? inwhich you can practice this skill in a supportiveenvironment.

Ed Sykes is a professional speaker, author, and successcoach in the areas of leadership, motivation, stressmanagement, customer service, and team building. You cane-mail him at mailto:esykes@thesykesgrp.com, or call him at(757) 427-7032. Go to his web site,, and signup for the newsletter,OnPoint, and receive the free ebook, "Empowerment andStress Secrets for the Busy Professional."