Great Communicator Connections in Our Times
“The discoveries of healing science must be the inheritance of all. That is clear. Disease must be attacked, whether it occurs in the poorest or the richest man or woman, simply on the ground that it is the enemy; and it must be attacked just in the same way as the first brigade will give its full assistance to the humblest cottage as readily as to the most important mansion.”
With the continued protest marches and calls for social justice and police reform, I’ve been inspired not just by what was said, but how the message was conveyed, its impact, its connection—or not–whether the context was local, national or global. And, ultimately, whether it, and we, change hearts, minds and policy.
Whether on social channels or signage, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s words and images have been highly visible in recent weeks. His calls to action and the example he set by kneeling in prayer before the march on Selma, seem more relevant and urgent than ever, as his vision is, sadly, still unrealized.
Dr. King, his message and delivery, the words, pacing, the rise and fall of his voice, the passion, especially of his “I have a dream” speech, are regularly cited by experts in talk of great communicators. The USC Annenberg School for Communications and Journalism notes that Dr. King’s eight-time repetition of “I have a dream” “reinforces the point and solidifies it into the minds of listeners.”
“The discoveries of healing science must be the inheritance of all. That is clear. Disease must be attacked, whether it occurs in the poorest or the richest man or woman, simply on the ground that it is the enemy; and it must be attacked just in the same way as the first brigade will give its full assistance to the humblest cottage as readily as to the most important mansion.”
With the continued protest marches and calls for social justice and police reform, I’ve been inspired not just by what was said, but how the message was conveyed, its impact, its connection—or not–whether the context was local, national or global. And, ultimately, whether it, and we, change hearts, minds and policy.
Whether on social channels or signage, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s words and images have been highly visible in recent weeks. His calls to action and the example he set by kneeling in prayer before the march on Selma, seem more relevant and urgent than ever, as his vision is, sadly, still unrealized.
Dr. King, his message and delivery, the words, pacing, the rise and fall of his voice, the passion, especially of his “I have a dream” speech, are regularly cited by experts in talk of great communicators. The USC Annenberg School for Communications and Journalism notes that Dr. King’s eight-time repetition of “I have a dream” “reinforces the point and solidifies it into the minds of listeners.”
Communicators Past and Present
The USC Annenberg site also lists other great communicators, past and present, one who’s image and words also lately surfaced again and another I know of from personal experience.
In the U.K and elsewhere, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill’s words and rallying cries could be seen and heard again, and still, for individuals, institutions and the country to persist through the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. USC says Churchill used short, memorable messages well. In this communication, he painted pointed pictures for his audience in 1944 speech to the Royal College of Physicians. It rings true and clear for us today.
“The discoveries of healing science must be the inheritance of all. That is clear. Disease must be attacked, whether it occurs in the poorest or the richest man or woman, simply on the ground that it is the enemy; and it must be attacked just in the same way as the first brigade will give its full assistance to the humblest cottage as readily as to the most important mansion.”
Bill Clinton is another great communicator discussed on the USC list. The short profile quotes leadership expert Nick Morgan who said when Clinton spoke “the room came alive. The energy was tremendous,” and that he had a captivating ability to make an emotional connection with audiences. At a very small, private event I attended in Las Vegas some years ago, Bill Clinton was the surprise guest. He delivered informal remarks at a fundraiser for his wife. And yes, the room came alive when a casually dressed Clinton sauntered in. He was compelling and persuasive. He spoke with candor and conviction about Hillary.
Communicators Past and Present
The USC Annenberg site also lists other great communicators, past and present, one who’s image and words also lately surfaced again and another I know of from personal experience.
In the U.K and elsewhere, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill’s words and rallying cries could be seen and heard again, and still, for individuals, institutions and the country to persist through the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. USC says Churchill used short, memorable messages well. In this communication, he painted pointed pictures for his audience in 1944 speech to the Royal College of Physicians. It rings true and clear for us today.
“The discoveries of healing science must be the inheritance of all. That is clear. Disease must be attacked, whether it occurs in the poorest or the richest man or woman, simply on the ground that it is the enemy; and it must be attacked just in the same way as the first brigade will give its full assistance to the humblest cottage as readily as to the most important mansion.”
Bill Clinton is another great communicator discussed on the USC list. The short profile quotes leadership expert Nick Morgan who said when Clinton spoke “the room came alive. The energy was tremendous,” and that he had a captivating ability to make an emotional connection with audiences. At a very small, private event I attended in Las Vegas some years ago, Bill Clinton was the surprise guest. He delivered informal remarks at a fundraiser for his wife. And yes, the room came alive when a casually dressed Clinton sauntered in. He was compelling and persuasive. He spoke with candor and conviction about Hillary.
Unexpected Connection
As guests at the event, my husband and I had a photo opportunity with the former president. And then it happened. As other guests waited for their turn with the photography, Clinton took my husband aside for a one-on-one right after our photo flash. They talked about books Clinton had written, and some forthcoming updates. My husband said Clinton asked for opinions on directions and additions he might make. He conveyed sincere interest, intent and appreciation.
The chat wasn’t extensive, but it was exclusive, and very unexpected. And while the discussion may not have been about politics or world affairs, I’d like to think it wasn’t just idle talk either. My observation, still clear to this day, indicated the conversation was too intense for mere pleasantries. It was two communicators connecting about writing, words and impact.