• Answering unscripted questions is like using a microwave: you have to respond spontaneously in seconds
• To make a spontaneous answer great, use structure and time constraints
• Two tactics for concise and effective unscripted answers:
  • 2-Point Tactic
    • Listen closely to the question and pause to gather thoughts
    • Say, "That's a good question. It comes down to two things."
    • State your first point, then introduce the second point
    • Practice using a 60-second countdown timer
  • Principle Plus Story Tactic
    • State how you'll make decisions based on the question
    • Give a one to two-sentence answer about your guiding principle
    • Tell a story from your past that reinforces the principle
    • Practice using a 90-second countdown timer
• Use ChatGPT to generate practice questions and have someone read them to you
• With practice, you'll feel more comfortable creating spontaneous answers in 60 to 90 seconds

Check out the accompanying one-page PDF for more details. 

Winning Edge gives you the tools you need to lead and influence in the political and policy arenas. Every other week, Winning Edge releases short (approximately 5-minute) spots—or “snacks”—focused on one of four areas: fundraising, media, policy, or persuasion.

For more, visit our website: www.thecommonwealthpartners.com.