Commenting on Gordon's speech

Well, was it that bad?

I was interviewed this morning on BBC Radio Cambridgeshire to give my views on the speech made by Gordon Brown to the Labour Party conference. Here are my thoughts:

The introduction by Sarah (as last year) was inspired. She's very eloquent and introduced the man as well as the politician.

Then to Gordon's start - yes, rousing is the word I'd use. A standing ovation after 2 minutes 30 seconds (ok a "popcorn" style, but standing nonetheless which is more than Mandleson got) and another towards the end of his speech. He showed a glimmer of humour in acknowledging Mandleson with a very cleverly timed pause about the special relationship, introduced by a link to his recent visit to the US, then a switch in thinking to bring in Mandy (well done to his speech writer).

Then we saw more of the usual serious Mr Brown with some applause surfing during his list of Labour's achievements.

His speech gave the party faithful at the conference what they were looking for. A man in control, someone they could respect, be inspired by and a list of policies to be implemented. He didn't give the voter what they are looking for ... for me one big question wasn't address "How will you pay for it all?".

Overall, light on some content. Well delivered, with good use of pauses, vocal variety and as for the usual frequent facial twitch - it was there a few times but not many compared to it's normal frequency, which was refreshing.

Not that bad... but still some way to go on content.

Listening to David Smith at The Mandrake meeting last night, CEO of Jaguar Land Rover, I was impressed by his quiet self-assurance and confidence when expressing the challenges that he faced over the last 12 months.

Talking openly to an audience of around 40 business owners and entrepreneurs, David spoke of the challenges caused by the economic climate and also some of the difficulties he faced in the move from owners Ford to Tata - in particular in understanding their different communication styles. So how did he stay so composed? When asked what kept him awake at night, David rolled several things off the tip of his tongue - the first was his young family!

Could you stay as composed speaking to an intimate audience and answering such personal questions?

In my book, The Confident Manager, I refer to the PTP of communication:
Posture:
The impact this can have on how you feel. Maintain an upright posture for positive impact (both on others and your own brain)
Thoughts:
Keep a check on the negative chatter and focus on positive thoughts. Avoid neutral, wishy-washy language.
Pauses:
Take your time to pause and collect your own thoughts when speaking. This gives the audience a chance to truly hear what you are saying and gives yourself time to focus on what to say next.

David demonstrated these well, something I hope those who heard him will emulate.