Public Speaking Demonstration Falters in London

If we've not all done it, then we've certainly listened to a speech or presentation where the speaker says something just a little bit awkward. Because that moment when a public speaking demonstration goes wrong is typically awkward for everyone.

Now sometimes it's a purposeful move on the part of a speaker. Because if they plan to demonstrate their public speaking abilities, what better moment can there be? Since the speaker planned what to say and how to say it. And, does the fact that we're a bit awkward about the speaker's content say more about us than the speaker? Just a thought.

And we've certainly covered some instances of what not to say in a speech.

Mohammed El-Kurd Speaks in London

So the speech by the author and poet Mohammed El-Kurd in central London at the weekend provides yet another example. And people will certainly ask whether he meant to say what he said. Because in the context of his earlier words you could reasonably take one of two positions. Either he intended to say it. Or he didn't. Either way it's a media story on both sides of the Atlantic right now.

I dare you to look into the eyes of a Gazan child and tell him you tried your best.

Our day will come. But we must not be complacent. Our day will come. But we must normalize massacres as a status quo.

If he intended to say this, then his earlier remarks might provide a context.

Zionism is apartheid, it’s genocide, it’s murder, it’s a racist ideology rooted in settler expansion and racial domination, and we must root it out of the world.

Clearly Mohammed El-Kurd maintains this was a misspeak. And he's not the only speaker to plead this explanation. However, without a script we're unlikely to find out. Because we don't believe he had a script.

Demonstrate Your Public Speaking Skills With a Script

Since we suspect that the material for his speech was fed to him via a mobile phone. And that material probably comprised "talking points" or slogans and not well-crafted sentences.

So, there's probably a lesson here for all of us on a public podium. Craft your speech, practise your speech, edit it and have a copy to hand when you deliver your speech. Because that way there won't be this ambiguity about what you intended to say.

You can discover plenty of public speaking tips and hints with our series of top tips, podcasts and presentation videos. And with more than 100 tips, you're sure to find something to help you demonstrate your skills. Plus, when you're ready to go that bit further with your public speaking skills please don't hesitate to get in touch.