Best Public Speakers Series: Richard Branson

by Michelle Davis

We included Richard Branson on our "Best Public Speakers" list because of his strong delivery, strategic messaging, vocal variety and stress, motivational style, and stage presence.

Richard Branson is a British billionaire and entrepreneur. In the 1970s he founded the Virgin Group, which today controls more than 400 companies in various fields.

We reviewed Richard Branson deliver a speech during a press briefing. He discusses the launch of Virgin Australia and the benefits of the new terminals, uniforms, airplanes, and all the routes this airline will fly.

What are the main communication takeaways?

• Great use of humor

• Relatable

• Simple language

• Nice smile and facial expressions

How could he improve?

• Look down less and minimize reading from notes. These tendencies can be perceived as less personable.

• Slow down for impact

• Use stronger and more connected eye contact

• Be mindful of tone. At times, he came across as more arrogant than confident.

_________________________________________________________________________________

Interested in a true leap forward in your leadership communication skills, start building new communication habits that advance your leadership and increase your impact immediately: https://speakbydesign.com/join