Page 131 - Great Communication Secrets of Great Leaders

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CHAPTER 8
The important thing to remember about Barbara Jordan is that she was a
speaker’s speaker. Where others are professional, she was artful. Where others
are sincere, she was passionate. Where others are intellectual, she was a
scholar. Where others are sensitive, she was human. And it is important to
remember that while at first glance she might appear to be something other
than what she was, the moment she spoke was the moment the audience
listened. DELIVERING THE MESSAGE 109
Her eloquence was particularly piercing during Watergate. She sat on the
Impeachment Committee that weighed the evidence against President Nixon.
In those dark days of government, her words and her voice served as
reminders that one of the strengths of our country is its adherence to law and
the pursuit of justice.

When Congresswoman Jordan spoke, she created moments of truth. These
result when a speaker’s message and content meet the expectations of the audi-
ence live and on stage for all to see. How can you prepare for such moments
of truth? Well, as the old man said when asked the way to Carnegie Hall,
“Practice, practice, practice!”

THE AUTHENTIC PRESENTER
Establishing credibility is fundamental to leadership. As we have discussed,
leaders affirm their believability through the content of their leadership mes-
sages. Vocalization of the message also plays a role; in other words, the way
you look and sound as you present is critical to your credibility (see Figure
8-1). Emerging leaders often ask their speech coaches or trusted advisers how
they should present. The answer most often given is, “Be yourself!” This is the
correct answer, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. The leader must be him- or
herself on stage or in a coaching session, but he or she may also need to do
more. Here are some suggestions:
Reflect the mood of the moment. Know the situation. Is the organization
upbeat and optimistic, or is it fearful and dreading tomorrow? Take
your cue from the mood and adjust your presentation style accordingly.
For upbeat audiences, a lighter approach is acceptable; for uptight audi-
ences, being direct and to the point may be more appropriate. Humor,
however, can be a terrific way to lighten the mood and break the ice.