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Whether you are an incumbent or a challenger in an election, you will each have your assets and liabilities when it is your turn to step up to the microphone.
Let's begin with the incumbent. If you are the incumbent, your job is a bit easier . . . you have "been there and done that" before. 1. Make your message simple. The truth is seen to be simple. Look at the bottom line of each issue of your campaign; state it simply and state your position on that issue. 2. Know you message. You must be able to explain to your audience why you voted the way you did on certain bills - your bill sponsorships and your committee memberships. They simply want to know what these things mean to them. 3. Your votes need to hear your record. You could be labeled a big spender for voting for a half million dollar walk-over at a major intersection, but it can work to your advantage if you can explain that you voted that way because children are being injured at that intersection, while trying to cross it to get to school. 4. Let the voters visualize the benefits. In your words, paint them a picture of your actions and how they will benefit them, and show them why you should be returned to office. 5. Leave history to the historians. You as a leader are expected to be able to see and state a problem and propose a solution to the problem. Make your claim first and then explain it to your audience. 6. Dont brag. Just tell your audience what the problem was and what you did to solve it. 7. Experience is a plus. However, don't look back and talk about what you have done, talk about what you are going to do. As an incumbent you probably have drawers of letters of people telling you what you have done to help them, so use them to remind your audience of the benefits of having you in office. 8. Echo Power. If a listener remembers something you have said and repeats it, that is echo power. Hopefully it is something positive . . . and it is a benefit to you. Some statements can ensure that you will be remembered and your message will be passed on, Go To Page: 1 2
The copyright of the article Tips on Political Speaking in Women in Politics is owned by . Permission to republish Tips on Political Speaking in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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