At a recent funeral of a college friend (Roger Sidney), one of his friends and co-workers (also a university professor) spoke eloquently about Roger. It was a great tribute to Roger. His wife Nikki wanted others to share their thoughts. When no one else would stand to speak for him, I did. Though I was not among those closest to Roger in his years following our friendship in college, I knew he needed to be spoken for. I told of a story from our time back packing around Europe one summer before our senior year in college. I talked about Roger's character. It added to the fine tribute already given by the professor. It needed to be said. Roger was a great man in his own right and needed to be spoken of in his time of passing on.
People expect our leaders to be good public speakers. We as leaders are speaking publicly for our people at times and they want us to be confident, decisive, and to reflect their desires.
If you are not already adequate as a public speaker, shame on you. Like exercise, you can start developing the skill any time in life. And like exercise, you have to do it continually to maintain (and hopefully improve) your ability.
Years ago, I attended an event where one of the wealthiest men in the world addressed the audience. Having read about this man, I was anxious to hear him speak. I was surprised at how poor of a public speaker he was that day. In my mind, it caused me to think less of him. My conjecture was that he must have been particularly good in one-on-one or small group settings in order to achieve his financial success. His poor communications that day left me wondering. I've seen him again. Again, he was poor in his group communications. I felt sorry for him - not a sentiment we often associate with leaders.
We see how good oratory skills are evident (or lacking) in our presidents. In the years I have been voting, I have been influenced more by the individuals who are eloquent. Have you? It is particularly evident when the candidates debate each other. I believe that few people can hide their true selves when they are speaking in front of an audience for an extended time. And the debates bring out personalities even more.
I am in a group of individuals that meets weekly (for one hour during lunch time) to practice our speaking skills. Some of these individuals have been involved for well over ten (10) years. When I ask them why they continue to be involved, the response is similar - they need to continue to practice the skill of public speaking to stay good at it.
I urge you, as a leader, to continue to develop your speaking skills. Take opportunities to speak, get involved in organizations designed to help individuals develop and improve speaking skills, and go forth and lead with good public communications skills.
