9 ways to sound smart when you're put on the spot

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The thought of speaking up when you weren't expecting to contribute to the conversation is terrifying.

It's one thing to prepare to lead a discussion in a team meeting or to plan what you're going to say to your department at your monthly update gathering; it's a whole other thing to think on your feet and offer a response in an impromptu setting.

Consider it another form of problem-solving.

Unfortunately, even if you're someone who thrives on advance preparation, the truth is, there'll be plenty of times in your career when you don't have a thought-out, pre-planned answer, when the situation doesn't lend itself to your giving a rehearsed speech. Expert career coaches to the rescue!

Ahead, nine of them explain how to get skilled in responding to the natural flow of conversations—whether that's in a meeting you assumed wouldn't require your input, with your boss on a random Wednesday afternoon, or with the CEO who suddenly strikes up conversation about the project your manager assigned you just yesterday.

1. Focus on what's important

"If you're nervous [about speaking up in an impromptu setting], it probably means you're overly focused on how other people are going to perceive you. Instead, focus on what's being discussed and think about three questions: 'What do I not understand which could be better clarified?' 'What question could I ask that would advance the discussion?' 'What perspective or insight do I have that's shareable?'

"Don't worry about 'looking smart' or making some amazing point or comment. It's a discussion, not a debate." —Bruce Eckfeldt

2. Repeat the question

"One of the hardest parts of contributing to a conversation or answering questions in meetings is feeling as though you are under pressure to produce an expected response. One way to overcome this feeling is to not jump into your feedback too quickly. If your response isn't clear, it can come off as an incomplete thought, or it may fail to address the question.

"To calm your nerves and come up with a thoughtful answer, simply repeat the question that was asked. This will ensure that you completely understand what's going on before you attempt to contribute to the conversation." —Allison Tatios

3. Call upon your knowledge

"People usually talk about the things that are of interest to them (professionally or personally), or information most relevant to the organization. Use your knowledge to generate questions that demonstrate your involvement in the conversation.

"Engaging others by asking questions puts them in a position to share more information, and it takes the stress and pressure off of you. For example, if one of your managers or leaders discusses the company mentoring program, ask her about her best or worst mentoring experiences. You can relay your enthusiasm or interest by restating highlights of what she shared." —Adrean Turner