What makes a speech remarkable and memorable? McKay answers this question in today’s episode as he brings to light examples of great speeches and teaches us how to improve our speaking skills. In order to connect with your audience, McKay explains that you have to focus on your audience, prime them to think in the same mindset, use stories to carry them along, and ask questions.

The episode begins with the story of Abraham’s Lincoln speech, a short speech that inspired many and continues to do so to this day. McKay explains how Lincoln makes use of repetition and constraint in his speech and how he recognized his physical surroundings and atmosphere, giving more power to his speech. Mckay gives a step-by-step approach on how to become a better speaker by connecting more fully with your audience and making your speech less about you and more about your listener.

The Finer Details of This Episode:

• Abraham Lincoln’s speech at Gettysburg
• Using repetition and contrast in speeches
• How to become a better speaker
• You have to focus on your audience and connect with them
• The story behind “I Have A Dream”
• Starting your speech by priming the listeners
• The different examples of priming
• Priming with stories and jokes
• The power of asking your audience questions

Quotes:

“Great orators, when giving a speech, seek a cadence, a feeling, by their use of words.”

“Great speaking is a developed talent.”

“Too often, we don't consider the place or the audience. And so many speakers come at it from their own point of view, or make it about themselves. And this gets in the way, it prevents the listeners from fully engaging.”

“Pay attention to where you sit. Sit where you can easily make contact with the listeners. Eye contact makes all the difference. ”

“In the beginning of a presentation, you need to prime the listeners a bit so that they can follow you more intently. Priming brings the listener’s mind into your mindset and gets everyone on the same track.”

“Too often, I hear speakers tell personal stories, and they're focused on sharing the story like an overzealous friend who just returned from vacation and wants to show you their vacation pictures. And they share every single exhausting detail about themselves.”

“Priming is a useful skill in all of your speaking. And when you learn to prime well, you can elevate your effectiveness.”

Show Links:

Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen