[james_in_the_uk]

I suffered with this at the start of my career. I am a lawyer so it was not ideal. People want to ask a question and get an answer.

I found that it was being put on the spot that flustered me. I learned to respond by saying: "That's a good question. Give me a second to think it through". Then I would wait a few seconds, until I felt the tension ease. Then I'd invariably be able to give a better answer.

I did it to manage my anxiety but I also found that it helped convey a sense of authority and gravitas.

Over time I am not so anxious when being put on the spot, and so tend to launch right in, often to less effect than if I'd paused for thought first.