Posted by Dorothea Stuart
We recently published speaking tips from Phil Collins, former speechwriter at No 10 Downing Street (click here).
There is much in common with the top tips from the great Victorian Prime Minister William Gladstone. What did he discover about the art of persuasive public speaking?
In summary:
1. Study plainness of language, always preferring the simpler words. 2. Shortness of sentences. 3. Distinctness of articulation. 4. Test and question your own arguments beforehand, not waiting for critic or opponent. 5. Seek a thorough digestion of, and familiarity with, your subject, and rely mainly on these to prompt the proper words. 6. Remember that if you are to sway an audience you must besides thinking out your matter, watch them all along.
Sounds like a good recipe to me!
I found this in a book by Richard Aldous - The Lion and the Unicorn. Gladstone vs Disraeli, published by Hutchinson. Recommended to anyone interested in political history, rivalry and the art of speaking. And of course...if you are a fan of Alice Through the Looking Glass you will remember the wonderful drawing of the two great Prime Ministers as the Lion and the Unicorn.
