There have been many adjectives used to describe Boris Johnson: eccentric, clever, politically astute, lovable, funny, quirky, self-promoting, arrogant, charming, flamboyant, and larger than life. Some believe he excels as the Mayor of London and should lead the Conservative Party, while others might prefer he take a different path entirely.
This post focuses on his speaking style in politics. Regardless of your views on his political positions, it’s worth taking a moment to watch his address at the recent Conservative Party Conference.
Grabbing Attention
Johnson knows how to immediately capture his audience’s attention. With his hands on his hips, leaning forward, and reaching for his pen, he opens with:
“Before I go any further, I just want to check one thing: Is everybody here? Are we all proud Conservatives?”
His directness sets the tone, rallying support by asking if they intend to fight the next election under the Conservative banner.
The Power of Humour
Johnson employs humour and charm while maintaining the seriousness of his message, effectively engaging his audience. His playful remarks about feeling “yellow around the edges like a kipper” create a light-hearted atmosphere while discussing serious issues.
His speaking style is marked by assertiveness and a captivating presence. For example, he said:
“A year ago, I predicted we would win the European elections—and WE DID IT!”
Such statements demonstrate his confidence and help build rapport with his listeners.
Artistic Language
Boris Johnson has a flair for colourful language that adds depth to his messages. He vividly describes topics, making them relatable and engaging:
“Look at the skyline of London, writhing and sprouting with extraordinary growth like a sped-up David Attenborough nature film.”
In a memorable moment, he pulled a brick from under the lectern, stating:
“Behold this brick. This was given to me in Newcastle Under Lyme, where we’re only three points behind Labour.”
This creative use of visuals keeps the audience engaged and emphasizes his points effectively.
Balancing Humour and Substance
Johnson strikes a balance between delivering powerful messages and keeping the tone light. He knows how to captivate his listeners through humour while addressing significant topics:
“The current story of London is one of amazing success.”
He closes with a call for unity:
“Let us unite now; let’s get together.”
Regardless of political opinions, Johnson’s delivery demonstrates that political speeches don’t have to be monotonous. They can inspire and engage when presented with authenticity and creativity.
If you need help presenting:
– Book yourself onto a powerful public speaking course.
– Invest in some really good one to one public speaking coaching.
– Get yourself some excellent presentation training
Image: Courtesy of pixabay.com
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