Deliver Your Leader’s Speech and Meet Your Goals

Normally, when we consider a leadership speech, we can think of examples such as the General McChrystal Fort McNair speech upon his retirement. Or perhaps we think of a conference leadership speech from the leader of one of the main political parties. Alternatively, a leadership speech epic from Michael Gove when it looked as if he would contest the leadership of the conservative party. But for most of us, a leadership speech is about being a leader in our own organisation or team. As it should be.

And let's not forget that a leader's speech should also be a motivating speech as well. Because there are many examples of motivational and team captain speeches in the worlds of sport and business.

We were reminded of this when we looked at the leader's speech from Pete Hegseth, the Secretary of War in the United States government. He gave his speech to a large gathering of top brass, officers and senior leaders at the Quantico Marine Corps base. And it's quite a case study on how to give a leader's speech.

From this moment forward, the only mission of the newly restored Department of War is this: warfighting, preparing for war and preparing to win, unrelenting and uncompromising in that pursuit. Not because we want war. No one here wants war. But it’s because we love peace. We love peace for our fellow citizens. They deserve peace, and they rightfully expect us to deliver it.

Rehearse Your Leader's Speech

His speech was certainly unusual, but perhaps it's a taster of how it could be or maybe how it should be. The lines were well rehearsed, words and message were clear, succinct, and to the point.

When the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, used the lectern to make his introductions, Secretary Hegseth swiftly took to the stage. He became fully mobile and used the autocue to full effect. Well-rehearsed, because you can't skip autocue practice.

A Pacy Leader's Speech from Secretary Hegseth

He spoke well, used pauses effectively and had plenty of tone and intonation. Good stuff.

No more dudes in dresses

In terms of pace, he used a variable approach. Sometimes very fast and at other times slow. Again, it's good technique.

All in all, a good compact speech that certainly set the headline writers scribbling furiously and no doubt upset several people as well. But to his audience of military people, everything seemed very good.

Any gripes? Perhaps the combination of a blue suit and brown shoes? But that's purely personal…What to wear when you give a speech is always a hot topic!

It all starts with physical fitness and appearance.

When you are looking for extra help and assistance with your next speech, leadership speech,
or otherwise, then you will find plenty of top tips for speakers and presentation tips here on
this site. And when you need extra help and assistance with your public speaking, you'll always find an online public speaking course should do the trick. Or, for more focus and attention, please don't hesitate to get in touch about a one to one coaching session.