Are you running for election? Congratulations to you on your initiative.
As a candidate for political office you need to do your homework and prepare. Learn the issues, take a position and build a network. One more thing – learn how to present your message well. And do it better than the competition.
The mayoral candidates spoke at a community meeting. Four of the five candidates attended. They were each allowed an opening and closing statement. In between they were asked to answer several written questions from the audience. The candidates were allowed up to 90 seconds for each answer.
As a professional speaker and executive speech coach I was under impressed by the candidates. But I was not surprised by the lack of presentation prowess. It would be so easy for political candidates to improve their presentations skills. Why do they neglect such a powerful tool of persuasion and success?
Let’s be clear. The purpose of these community meetings is to demonstrate that the candidates understand the key issues of the audience and that they can do something about it.
Here are my presentation tips for these mayoral candidates in particular and all political hopefuls in general.
Learn How to Use Microphones
The first speaker tested his microphone by blowing on it before he spoke. That is both annoying and unprofessional. The best way to test a microphone is to speak. Don’t say “TEST, TEST” or “Is this thing on?” Just speak normally.
First be Human
Only one speaker (the incumbent) thanked the organizers and complimented the other candidates in the room. That’s a sign of experience, confidence and compassion.
google_ad_channel = “7940249670, ” + AB_cat_channel + AB_unit_channel;
google_language = “en”;
google_ad_region = ‘test’;
George Torok -
About the Author:
© George Torok is the Speech Coach for Executives. He helps business leaders deliver million dollar presentations. Claim your free Power Presentation tips at http://www.Torok.com
