Page 116 - Great Communication Secrets of Great Leaders

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GREAT COMMUNICATION SECRETS OF GREAT LEADERS
run, I felt terrible, it was a terrible day. On mornings I got up and said, I’m not
going to, I had a wonderful day.’” Powell, according to Armitage, believed that
those who wanted him to run were looking for a “shortcut” to get “someone
on a white horse.” To his credit, Powell said, “That’s not the way our system
33
works.”
At his press conference in November 1995 announcing that he would not
be a candidate, Powell summed up his place in history as well as his strong
sense of self; he included the remarks in the afterword to his autobiography,
My American Journey.
Finally, let me say how honored I am that so many of you thought me wor-
thy of your support. It says more about America than it says about me. In
one generation, we have moved from denying a black man service at a
lunch counter to elevating one to the highest military office in the nation
and to being a serious contender for the presidency. This is a magnificent
country, and I am proud to be one of its sons. 34
Leadership Communications Lessons

Be firm in your conviction. Know yourself and what you really want
to do. Powell demonstrates this in his willingness to forgo the
presidency.
Demonstrate serenity. Powell exerts a sense of temperance, but when
necessary he will elevate the emotion of the moment.
Be decisive. When the decision is made, act forthrightly. Powell’s
actions in Desert Storm demonstrate his ability to get results.
Be seen as the leader. Powell is a frequent speaker and mixes well
with people from all ranks and stations in life. He stands out for
his eloquence as well as his convictions.
Live your message. Powell’s ability to inspire comes not simply from
his words but from his lifelong example: soldier, author, and
statesman.