There is a saying in boxing that holds true for public speaking – “Styles Make Fights.” Styles also make presentations, speeches and media appearances – every person is unique and every person has a unique style, something that works for them.
This is why I have always felt that the idea that you can become a great orator after reading a book on public speaking is like being prepared to go on the Tour de France after reading a book on bicycling– not really possible.
I have worked with speakers in situations where every “traditional” rule” for media training and public speaking gets thrown out the window because it DOESN’T WORK FOR THEM. Every person is an individual, with individual strengths and weaknesses. The key is identifying characteristics and techniques that work for that particular individual – just like snowflakes, no two styles are identical.
This video illustrates a lot of what’s wrong with trying to use the same techniques or claiming that certain “techniques” or “styles” will work for everybody – not to mention to illustrating a lot of what is wrong with commentary on television today – not once was the idea of having any type of message (the key to it all) mentioned.
If you are loud, antagonistic, energized, attacking and use powerful words you are an ideal pundit?
No wonder punditry, and all too often public relations and media training, have been given a bad name – at no point in this video is there any mention of Having Something Meaningful to Say.
Make no mistake, having something meaningful for the audience – a message – is crucial. With regard to style, when speaking before an audience– either before your Rotary Club or on CBS – one size does not fit all!
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