The Voice

Of course I have been influenced by a speaker. I would even go so far as to say anyone who hasn’t been influenced by a speaker hasn’t had any contact with another human being. Whether it be family, teachers, clergy, co-workers, politicians, motivational speakers, or friends, we have all been influenced by things we have been told. We’ve shaped our opinions, biases, and beliefs on what people have told us and how those things coincide with our own perception.

 

            One of the better speakers I’ve heard was Colin Powell. His ability to relate his experiences and knowledge in ways that made me feel like I lived them myself made his communication very memorable. When he speaks it doesn’t sound rehearsed, but rather that he’s imparting a lifetime of knowledge and experience in way that’s tailored to suit me as the individual rather than the crowd around me.

 

            I’ve heard many bad speakers. One that stands out for me was Al Gore. It was in many respects the exact opposite of Colin Powell. So much so that only a short time in I couldn’t wait for him to be finished. I don’t remember much about his message only that I felt as though I was listening to a used car salesman trying to sell me a lemon and convince me that it was brand new luxury car. There was no logic, rhythm, or emotion to what he said. It seemed like he was reading a prepared statement and wanted to get away from the podium as much as I wanted to get away from the auditorium.