Here’s Barack Obama last week on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. I’m always interested to hear Obama speak, because he has such great skill. After 1 minute 40 seconds, he gets down to the serious business of embassy closures and the security alert. Most of us probably won’t give a talk on such a serious topic.
However, watch up to that point you’ll see him recount some very short funny anecdotes, which allow him to across as incredibly natural and likable. Like my analysis of Stephen Fry talking at Wimbledon,* here are the most effective aspects:
- He’s telling stories from his personal experience. These allow us to relate to him. Joking about getting into trouble with his wife, or being seen as old by a seven-year-old. Everyday stuff.
- He’s self-deprecating. This is the big one. Comedians have to do this to be likable to get laughs, but it’s very valuable for anyone speaking in public, particularly when contrasting with serious message.
- He’s concise. Brevity is the soul of wit; keep each joke short and they’re going to be way sharper.
Obviously there are tons of clips of Obama on Youtube; have a look and see if you can implement any of the techniques he uses.
Yes you can.
*I enjoy the fact that Wimbledon is both a place and an event. Like Glastonbury.