Book Review: Communicating for change – Andy Stanley

The book in 1 sentence:

You are going for a drive in a truck (like a literal truck) whilst learning how to speak.

Who should read it?

·      Public speakers

·      Corporate Speakers

·      Preachers

·      Team leaders

·      Vision casters

How the book changed me:

I ‘ve always loved public speaking. This book has unearthed how a speaking gig is like taking someone on a drive: you need to bring them on the journey, forewarn them when there’s a turn & most importantly make sure your passengers know where the destination is. It has help me become a speaker who is able to greater engage & inspire an audience. Not just for keynote speeches, the principals from this book have upped my game in many settings including corporate meetings.  

My favourite quote:

“Add something unexpected to the trip.”

Summary & Notes:

5 keys to a speech:

1.     What do they need to know? INFORMATION

2.     Why do they need to know it? MOTIVATION

3.     What do they need to do? APPLICATION

4.     Why do they need to do it? INSPIRATION

5.     How can I help them remember? REITERATION

Driving analogy:

-       Before you set of in your vehicle you need to know your destination, have a clear end point on where you’re going to land your speech.

-       Give the audience a warming before you turn.

-       Check your speed. The brain processes information faster than we speak.

-       Slow down at curves

-       At moments you need to stop

-       You’re the tour guide, make comments along the journey.

-       Take the most direct route.

-       Take them to the destination, don’t leave them halfway.

Keeping it simple:

-       You must be able to sit in front of 2 people at a café and communicate your message conversationally & authentically

-       No notes. Internalise until you can do a 5 min summary from memory.

-       Have 5 to 6 big pieces ready to share. Not points, pieces of content.

-       What is the one point you are trying to convey?

Conclusion:

Public speaking is one of the most feared things amongst people, yet it’s one of the most important skills to share your thoughts with the world! Treat speaking like taking someone on a drive and you’ll enjoy the smooth ride.