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.
His effective speaking abilities could be clearly seen when I went to an event in London organized by The Times and Foyles Bookshop. The Times columnist, James Harding interviewed Mandelson, and he delivered an exemplary performance in effective speaking.
Many lessons on effective speaking and public speaking could be learned from the evening. So what did Peter do, how did he do it and what can you learn from him regarding effective speaking?
There are seven paths to effective speaking and it was clear to me that he followed all seven when addressing his audience. Here I’d like to concentrate on just two of these. Path 1 – Be well organised and Path 4 – Words and language
Here is how Peter addressed these two paths to effective speaking;
Path 1 - He was well prepared and knew his stuff.
Rather then jumping in to answer a question either from James Harding or from the audience, he paused for between 2 to 4 seconds, to give himself time to think and only then answered.
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 - He cleverly chose his words regarding his subject matter to appeal to his audience. A must for effective speaking.
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.