Speaking skills are crucial for an effective President. Past Presidents who displayed solid oratory skills saw successful terms. Those who had limitations in their oratory skills found their terms to be tumultuous due to an inability to communicate their ideas. Even if their ideas were strong ones, an inability to put forth a clear statement undermined their ability to succeed. CEOs can find themselves in the same position. If they cannot communicate their abilities, they might find their ability to manage successfully greatly limited. Those in management that find themselves in the same position would be well served to look at President Obama's speaking style.
On a baseline level, Pres. Obama displays a confident and charismatic style when he speaks. This makes people likely to listen to him and walk away personally liking him. Those in management that duplicate such a style can find their ability to communicate made easier. This is a critical point because such a speaking style will ''hook'' the listener which greatly enhances the ability for the words that have been spoken to be taken seriously. Also, it helps develop loyalty among the employees since the confidence of the speaker will have a positive impact on the listener.
Another excellent aspect of the Obama speaking style is that it is a positive one. It is not a downbeat one and it is certainly not a threatening, dictatorial tone. Managers will often make a tremendous mistake when they try a negative, hard edged approach. Such an approach may deliver short term results but it will turn employees and upper management off over time. This can make the proper operation of the company difficult to achieve since there is a rejection of the attitude and direction of top management. That is why it is best to look at the Obama method and stay positive.
There is also an authenticity to the Obama speaking tone. In other words, he is believable and realistic. You do not walk away from an Obama oratory session with the belief his is being dishonest or disingenuous. CEOs who embody these same traits will find underlings more likely to put their trust in such a leader. After all, what is not to trust when the person speaking is being positive, honest, and authentic?
Does this mean that a CEO should completely duplicate the Obama method of speaking? No, this would not be the right option. No one can duplicate someone else's style. However, it is possible to analyze such a style and pinpoint the positive aspect. From this, it can be possible to duplicate the core positive traits and make them your own.
