Recently, at the Professional Speechwriters World Conference, I had the pleasure of attending a half-day seminar delivered by Terry Szuplat, author of Say It Well: Find Your Voice, Speak Your Mind, Inspire Any Audience. As a speechwriter for President Obama, Terry brought a wealth of experience and an insider’s perspective that was both fascinating and inspiring. The session was a masterclass in storytelling, precision, and the art of delivering a truly resonating message.
A Glimpse into the Presidential Process
One of the highlights of Terry’s seminar was the use of video clips showing President Obama delivering some of the speeches we were discussing. It’s educational to hear about the techniques that make a speech effective, and it’s even better when we see them in action, particularly from a speaker as gifted as President Obama. The clips brought Terry’s advice to life, showing how a well-crafted message can create a powerful connection with the audience.
Terry also walked us through the rigorous process of preparing each of these speeches. He shared insights into what the speechwriting team did before, during, and after a presentation, shedding light on the extensive preparation required for even a single address. It was exciting to hear about the behind-the-scenes collaboration and the level of care that went into every word.
Active Involvement: Obama’s Hands-On Approach
One aspect that stood out during the seminar was President Obama’s active involvement in the speechwriting process. Terry shared visuals of the notes the President added to their drafts, showcasing how deeply he engaged with the content. Obama didn’t just read what was handed him—he refined, adjusted, and personalized the message. This approach ensured that every speech felt authentic to his voice.
Terry revealed that Obama also considered himself a better speechwriter than his speechwriting team, and the team graciously agreed. While the President certainly had a natural gift for speechwriting, the collaboration with his team allowed him to balance his demanding schedule while still delivering impactful messages. The partnership between Obama and his speechwriters highlighted a key lesson: great speeches are rarely the work of one person—they are the result of thoughtful collaboration and a deep understanding of the audience and the moment.
Key Takeaways: Crafting Memorable Messages
The seminar left me with several valuable lessons that apply to anyone looking to improve their public speaking skills:
Preparation is Everything: Whether addressing a nation or speaking at a team meeting, preparation is critical. The amount of time spent refining drafts, rehearsing, and aligning the message with the audience’s needs cannot be overstated.
Personalization Matters: A speech becomes genuinely memorable when it feels personal. As President Obama’s example showed, taking the time to make a message your own—by adding personal anecdotes, adjusting phrasing, or emphasizing key points—can make all the difference.
Storytelling Elevates the Message: Throughout the seminar, Terry emphasized the power of storytelling. A well-told story can create an emotional connection, making even complex ideas accessible and engaging. I underline this technique with my clients, and seeing it in action through Obama’s speeches reinforced its importance.
Collaboration is Key: Even the best speakers can benefit from a team that understands their style and can help refine their message. Terry’s stories about working with President Obama reminded me that great speechwriting is often collaborative, where different perspectives can strengthen the final product.
A Speech is a Performance: We brainstormed, “What is a speech?” This began with what it is not. You can look forward to another issue on that.
Inspiration for Speechwriters and Speakers Alike
Attending Terry Szuplat’s seminar reminded me of the power of well-chosen words and the impact of thoughtful speechwriting. It was a thrill to hear the stories behind the speeches that shaped significant moments in history and to learn the techniques that made them so effective. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just beginning to find your voice, the lessons from this session are a valuable reminder of what it takes to inspire an audience.
It was an experience that reinforced why I love the art of crafting and delivering great speeches and why I’m so passionate about helping others do the same.
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