Peter Mandelson, helped by his abilities as a effective speaking and public speaking expert, has played a prominent part in the Labour party during their time in power. Lord Mandelson has recently published The Third Man, an account of time at the centre and the relationship between Tony Blair and Gordon Brown.
His effective speaking abilities were on display at Foyle’s bookshop in London. The Times columnist, James Harding interviewed Mandelson, and he delivered an exemplary performance in effective speaking.
When we want to know how to do something we no longer need to reinvent the wheel. We can simply role model an expert and in this case the expert at effective speaking and public speaking is Mandelson. So what did Peter do, how did he do it and what can you learn from him regarding effective speaking?
There are certain key factors which lead to good speaking. Let us call them the paths to effective speaking. Path 1 – Be well organised and Path 4 – Words and language
This is how Peter Mandelson performed in these two areas of effective speaking technique;
Path 1- He was brilliantly prepared and knew what he wanted to say.
When questioned he took time to think what his answer would be rather than speaking straight away. The gap was approximately 2 to 4 seconds before he started speaking and this gave him plenty of time to think before replying.
The interviewer controlled the questioning from the audience and no speeches were allowed, only questions. An example of effective speaking from James Harding.
Path 4 – He cleverly chose his words regarding his subject matter to appeal to his audience. A must for effective speaking.
In addition though he is clearly a thinker and highly intelligent he, maybe surprisingly, used language that was very easily understood rather than being difficult to follow.
Surprisingly he used self deprecating humour to good effect although he managed to make himself look good.
This for me was one of the great insights and lessons that I learned from watching an effective speaking and public speaking master at work.
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.