This week we’re focusing on the importance of ‘fewer words bigger impact’.
For many, we are at the end of the academic term or sporting season.
As a result, I have attended a lot of prize-giving events over the last few weeks.
That also means listening to a lot of speeches.
I have been reminded of one lesson for any speaker – go easy on the adjectives!
Let me explain with two examples.
In one speech, the speaker described the award recipient as the most loyal person she had ever worked with.
It sounded sincere.
And I now associate that person with loyalty.
In another speech, though, a different speaker described the award winner as kind, caring, intelligent, innovative, funny, patient, curious, gregarious and a few other qualities too.
It didn’t sound sincere.
And using so many adjectives meant they diluted each other, with none really landing.
The approach of the second speech above is quite common for many speeches, not just award ceremonies.
One tip here.
Have a read through your speech.
Are there any adjectives that are not adding much?
Take them out.
Are there any adjectives you could remove without losing any impact?
If they’re not adding impact, leave them out.
Even removing a small number will help here.
Like sugar – a little sweetens, too much spoils.
So, go easy on the adjectives in your next speech.
And remember – fewer words, bigger impact.
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