Last week, I found myself immersed in watching the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on CNN. I’ve always been amazed by the grandeur of US events. The DNC didn’t let me down. The speeches were filled with passion and persuasiveness. Each was a solid example of a great speech.
As I watched, here’s what I saw.
Imagery
We talk about having props to support our messages. PowerPoint for example. The DNC used imagery on a larger than life screen behind each speaker.
As Mickey Guyton an American singer sang “All American” the backdrop displayed images of the US flag and powerful landscapes from across the US. The song lyrics and imagery drew in the audience and words set the stage for the strong messages and performances that followed.
Audience engagement
I can’t think of a better example of how to engage an audience than the DNC roll call. Each state and territory announced the votes their delegate would give to the candidate. How did they get involved? By declaring this votes in a party atmosphere to their chosen music. That’s crowd engagement!
I also watched speeches where the audience was invited to make noise, wave signs and be heard.
Vocal variety
The speeches didn’t lack vocal variety. Speakers emphasized points with hand gestures and raised voices, reinforcing their passions and commitment for their candidate. Incorporating vocal variety into a speech enhances the impact of your speech and audience connection.
Relevance
Being relevant means you understand the issues. The speakers in the DNC emphasized the issues that were top of mind for the audience. They used video clips to support their messages and emphasize their commitment.
Credibility
Great speakers are credible. During the DNC, speakers emphasized personal characteristics by telling real life stories; examples that demonstrated the qualities audiences want in a leader.
Stacey Johnson-Batiste, along with her mother, told stories of how they were longtime friends of Kamala Harris and the character that they experienced growing up with her.
Commitment
The messages delivered in the speeches were not short on commitment. For example, Hillary Clinton reminded the audience of what they were fighting for. What they stood for and, in this case, how far women have come in political circles. She talked about “a future with no ceilings on our dreams.”
Great speakers and great speeches motivate and influence audiences. I may not have a dog in the race, but I love to listen to strong propelling speeches and to me, the DNC delivered.
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