The Cranky Middle Manager Show #314 Lean Learning and Knowledge Capture with Todd Hudson
The Cranky Middle Manager Show #307 Best and Worst Communicators of 2011 Ben Decker
Posted on 16. Dec, 2011 by Wayne in General, Podcast
Today Wayne Turmel talks to Ben Decker about his annual list of the Best and Worst Communicators of the year. What can we mere mortals learn from these big shots? Plus a bit about Alexander the Great and a French Duke who is easily persuaded. Hey, it’s just what we do here.
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Show Notes
0:00 Welcome to the show. Today we talk to someone who used to be one of my biggest competitors when I was gainfully employed at Communispond, but he’s a very smart guy. Ben Decker puts out an annual list of the best and worst communicators of the year. To that end we dedicate this episode to Alexander the Great who managed to convince his soldiers to keep going, long past the time they should have headed home.
4:45 The quote of the week is from Francois de la Rochefoucauld, who we’ve discussed before here. The untrained speaker with passion will still beat the slick guy without it. Just saying.
5:45 If you want a list of The Best and Worst Communicators of 2011, you can get it here. The top of the list is Steve Jobs, less for his style (which many try to copy, few successfully) but for his passion and ability to tell a story.
10:54 Another person on the list is Chris Anderson, the brains behind Ted Talks. Also included is Virginia Rometty, CEO of IBM for her ability to use her “SHARPS” (Stories,Humor, Analogies, References, Pictures).
14:34 Why do communication and presentation skills matter so much when we do less formal presenting. What if you never speak at a conference or to senior execs? And don’t tick Ben off …..
17:20 I reveal one of Ben’s secrets…. he’s flailing around as he talks to us. Oh, and lighten up while you’re at it.
19:15 What do the worst communicators on the list have in common? It has nothing to do with “presentation skills”, it has a lot to do with authenticity and trust. No matter how slick you are, do you believe what you’re saying? Why should we believe you?
23:40 Do you play defense when you present? Are you more worried about the possible response than you are about communicating your vision? Ben has some advice….
Ben’s Resources
The Decker Communications Blog