The Speaker Was Disappointing: The Chicken Saved the Luncheon
I eagerly attended this luncheon to hear the speaker, yet it was the chicken lunch that was the star. What a disappointment.
The guest speaker had an impressive history of accomplishments. He was successful in both public service and entrepreneurship.
He also contributed to the university in many roles over several decades. This was clearly a fascinating person with inspiring stories to share. I was excited to hear his stories. I wondered what we might hear about his experiences, lessons, mistakes, challenges and dreams.
That’s why I attended the university alumni luncheon to hear him speak. I wanted to learn about him and his journey.
Instead, he parked himself behind the lectern and read the speech that someone else wrote for him. Cleary the speech writer wanted to demonstrate their library of ten-dollar words. That didn’t enhance comprehension, rapport or trust.
The speaker seemed a prisoner of this boring script.
Occasionally the speaker shifted his stance, planted his hands in his pockets then withdrew them a few minutes later. He seemed uncomfortable and nervous even though the was talking about a topic he knew well – himself.
The presentation was disappointing, boring and uninspiring. There were no memorable stories or powerful insights.
The speech wasn’t personal. It started with an old joke that got a feeble laugh – but it did not have a point – other than to discredit his credentials. That’s not the same as sincere self deprecation.
There was no call to action to his audience. I’m not sure why he gave that speech.
We didn’t learn about him as a person. He remained anonymous and cold. The script lacked personality. His delivery lacked warmth. I wonder if he rehearsed his delivery or even glanced at the script before he spoke.
It was a terrible presentation and waste of our time. So much potential was lost. What a shame. I wonder why such a successful person never learned how to deliver an effective speech.
At least the chicken lunch was decent.
Shame on the speaker, his staff and the alumni association for not treating the audience with more respect.
The Mistakes This speaker Committed:
- He allowed someone else to write his personal speech
- He didn’t connect with the audience because it was impersonal
- We didn’t learn about him.
- There were no personal stories – success and mistakes
- He appeared uncomfortable because he read a boring script
©George Torok is The Speech Coach for Executives and founder of Superior Presentations. He coaches executives and trains professionals to deliver Superior Presentations.
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