Into Motivation

Peter Mandelson has been at the centre of British politics and shaping the Labour party for the last 15 years. Whether you agree with him or not, you cannot deny his very effective speaking, communication and public speaking abilities. Mandelson, no stranger to contoversy, has caused even more with the release of his new book – The Third Man.

I went to see Peter at an event in London run by The Times newspaper and Foyles Bookshop at which his effective speaking abilities were very much in evidence The evening took the form of an interview on stage by Times columnist James Harding and, putting aside the politics, and even the personal issues covered, it was a Master Class in both how to have an audience eating out of your hand and in effective speaking.

It is said that when you want to know how to do something that you do not need to learn how to do it yourself, you simply need to find someone who is good at it and role model or copy them. In this case our focus is effective speaking and public speaking. Let’s look at what contributed to his very effective speaking performance.

There are seven important routes to effective speaking; it is clear that all seven of these paths where addressed as Peter answered James’ questions and those of the audience. This article concentrates on paths 1 and 4. Path 1 – Be well organised and Path 4 – Words and language

This article explains how he addressed paths 1 and 4.

Path 1 – Clearly he knew his

subject very well and was prepared for the event.

He paused before he answered to collect his thoughts.

In addition in respect to planning, the interviewer, James Harding, made it clear that the questions from the floor where to be short and not statements or speeches. An example of effective speaking from the ‘Mr’ as well as the ‘Lord’.

Path 4 – To understand the words and language Peter Mandelson used, you neither had to be well versed in politics nor had you to have already read his book. This is effective speaking that communicates at all levels.

For someone of his intellect, he still chose language which was easy to understand.

In addition he often used entertaining self deprecating humour, always with a twist that actually made him look in control.

How someone can do this was one lesson that I took from seeing an effective speaking and public speaking expert operate.

So in conclusion what lessons can be learned? Pause before answering, stay calm, know your content, and use simple language peppered with humour, which appeals to your audience. If you do these things you will be proficient at effective speaking and public speaking.

Learn the Art of Effective Speaking – Secrets and Strategies of the Very Best Speakers in the World. Go to www.thespeakingwell.co.uk to find out more.