Transforming Minds: The Power of Words in Events
Are your words spoken to their true potential?
Recently I came across this video from Mohammed Alqahtani, and it made me really think.
Words when said and articulated in the right way can change someone's mind.
In my journey through the events industry, I’ve come to realise just how pivotal effective communication is. The saying “words when said and articulated in the right way can change someone’s mind” is more than just a catchy phrase—it’s a fundamental truth that I’ve seen in action time and time again.
It hit me, how this one phrase can be relatable in so many ways and so many places across my daily life and career. How the role we have as storytellers and message conveyors comes with great responsibility.
In the realm of public speaking, particularly at keynote addresses, the power of words is amplified not just by their content, but by their delivery. Keynote speakers are not just conveyors of information; they are architects of influence, crafting their messages with precision to leave lasting impressions. The art of articulation—the way words are said and presented—plays a pivotal role in shaping how content resonates with an audience and, consequently, how it can change minds.
"The impact of a message lies not just in what is said, but in how it is said."
The Science of Delivery
The effectiveness of a keynote speaker hinges on a perfect balance and blend of verbal and non-verbal elements. Research in communication studies highlights that while the content of a speech is crucial, the way in which it is delivered can dramatically alter its impact. When I coach a speaker on stage, it is often the small nuances of presenting that are forgotten. Factors such as tone, pace, and body language contribute significantly to how the audience perceives and takes on the message.
Tone can convey emotion and intent. A passionate tone can stir enthusiasm and urgency, while a calm, measured tone can instil trust and credibility. Consider how Martin Luther King Jr.'s emphatic delivery of "I Have a Dream" galvanised a movement; his tone carried the weight of his vision and the gravity of his message.
I always try to help speakers realise that knowing their content inside out – through proper rehearsals - gives them time and space to play with things like pace and tone when on stage, rather than trying to remember their words.
Pace influences comprehension and retention. A measured pace allows audiences to absorb complex ideas, whereas a dynamic pace can generate excitement and engagement. Steve Jobs, in his iconic 2005 Stanford commencement address, used a deliberate pace to punctuate his personal anecdotes, making each story resonate deeply with his listeners.
Body language—including eye contact, gestures, and posture—serves as a visual reinforcement of spoken words. A speaker's openness and engagement through non-verbal cues can enhance the credibility and relatability of their message. Oprah Winfrey's empathetic and approachable methods often make her speeches not just heard, but felt.
