Would you like to know the secrets of our reigning London Table Topics champion Andrew Klimaytys? Perhaps not all his secrets but his top tips for impromptu speaking and winning table topics contests...
Andrew's been a member of Riverside Communicators for ten years. He's won club, area and division contests on many occasions. And anyone who has heard him knows he adores doing topics.
How can we prepare for table topics? Listen out for questions. When I'm watching TV, or on a bus or train I'll hear a question and think "how would I answer that?" I'll have a go and answer it in my head.
When you're at your club meeting don't sit idly through the topics session. Work overtime! I listen to every answer and think "how could I answer that differently?" You'll be surprised what you come up with.
Keep up with current events. You may get a topical topic. Even if you get a general question your answer can be up to the minute. Using content that's in the news catches people's interest.
What makes a really good table topic answer? Most people tend to take the question literally. I like to turn the question on its head, attack it from a different angle.
This week I was asked "Are McDonalds responsible for the end of civilization?" I could have talked about fast food and obesity. Instead I discussed clan McDonald, joking about the pluses and minuses of Scottish culture. This kind of answer stands out.
Generally humour is useful but sometimes questions should be answered seriously.
A good topics answer is a mini speech. Remember to finish. Don't trail off. Coming back to the question and restating your point of view makes an ending strong. "McDonalds. The end of civilisation? I think not!"
What are your secrets for winning contests? You want to make an impact on the audience and the judges. Everything I've mentioned helps - taking a different angle, using humour, being topical .
My first secret is...being animated. You are on stage for a very short time. Use your arms, use vocal variety, be energetic. Enthusiasm gets picked up by the audience. You'll come across as confident, knowledgeable, and most importantly... memorable.
My second secret is...keep practicing. Before the 2007 London Division B contest I answered questions at Speakers' Corner. Club members at Tube Talk fired questions at me in one of their meetings. My friends and family put up with me answering everything in topic style!
Thanks Andrew. We'll all be putting the secrets into action so watch out!
