Tools

Search

Explore

Videos Channels Figures

Atmrix

About

Tools

Search

Explore

Videos Channels Figures

Atmrix

About

MA

Matt Abrahams

12/05/14

@ Stanford Graduate School of Business

When asking spontaneous questions to trained speakers, use the power of 'why' to dig deeper and encourage more authentic responses.

Video

SG

Think Fast, Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

@ Stanford Graduate School of Business

Think Fast, Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

12/05/14

Related Takeaways

JC

Jerry Colonna

05/08/25

@ Lenny's Podcast

Asking powerful questions like "What am I not saying that I need to say?" can lead to deeper self-awareness and personal growth.

MA

Matt Abrahams

12/05/14

@ Stanford Graduate School of Business

Using questions in your presentation engages the audience and creates a conversational atmosphere.

MA

Matt Abrahams

12/05/14

@ Stanford Graduate School of Business

Spontaneous speaking is more common than planned speaking, such as during introductions or Q&A sessions.

RG

Robert Greene

10/09/22

@ Lewis Howes

People love to talk about their childhood; asking subtle questions about their past can help you connect with them on a deeper level.

JC

Jerry Colonna

05/08/25

@ Lenny's Podcast

Asking questions that startle us can lead to profound insights and personal growth, even if the answers are scary.

MA

Matt Abrahams

12/05/14

@ Stanford Graduate School of Business

In spontaneous speaking situations, you must figure out what to say and how to say it simultaneously. Familiarity with structures can help you respond effectively.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

09/20/18

@ Y Combinator

Practice your answers but avoid sounding robotic; keep your responses natural and engaging.

GT

Garry Tan

09/20/18

@ Y Combinator

To accurately understand your users, ask open-ended questions during interviews. This approach helps uncover their stories and emotions, which often reveal the most pressing problems to solve.

MA

Matt Abrahams

12/05/14

@ Stanford Graduate School of Business

Practice a series of four steps to improve spontaneous speaking: get out of your own way, see interactions as opportunities, listen actively, and use structures.