One Minute Is All You Got!

You are coming to the close of your program and you are
told, “One minute is all you got!” Do you know without
timing your self how long a minute is?

A true professional will know what a minute is. I highly
recommend you learn this skill. Time yourself. Know what
is a minute, five minutes and ten minutes.

When I was working in radio and television over the years
I had to learn these time frames so I could pace myself
for each cue. The day will come when you will be in an
interview and the host will say we only have a minute
to close this out. Will you be able to say what you
want to say and stay within that minute?

It is embarrassing to run out of time and the host has
to cut you off before you finish.

When you say you are about to close your program with
this one thought, don’t be guilty of going on and on
with last minute thoughts. Be concise. Your closing
comments should be short, clear and to the point. If
you do your audience will appreciate it.

Practice this skill. Prepare yourself for those
moments when time is critical. When you do you will
be perceived as a professional by the host, your emcee,
and your listeners.

Start off by writing a one minute talk. Most people speak
at about 120 to 170 words per minute. When you practice
on these skills I suggest you read your script out loud to get
the full effect. At the same time learn how to pace yourself.

Once you have practice that and you are comfortable, do
it again without reading it until you once again are able to
pace yourself just under a minute.

Now you can step it up and include a magic trick. This may
feel like starting all over but in time you will figure out
your timing. It is most important to become aware and
comfortable with the amount of time you are given.

I think my minute is up.

Steve Hart