Tony Robbins @ TED
I chose this video of Tony Robbins presenting at TED in 2006 because it shows certain Speaking attributes that are worth noting. Of course, Tony Robbins has been a part of the American scene for about 25+ years. We know he is an energetic speaker and strongly projects his ideas. He speaks in a loud clear voice, and talks rapidly. He is a much sought after Speaker and there in is a good reason to look at what he does when Speaking to an audience.
In this video, Tony Robbins paces, left to right, right to left, back-n-forth, repeatedly. He begins in earnest at about 6 minutes into his presentation, and continues till the end. He walks quickly, stopping when he runs out of stage, makes great eye contact with the audience, then proceeds back to the other side.
Do you think he paces too much? too rapidly? just about right? How does your stage movement compare? Do you move about the front of the room or are you rooted to one spot, maybe behind a Lectern? Does his style of stage movement encourage you to change your behavior for more impact? What can you learn from this clip that you can use?
Another physical action he exhibits is touching or stroking his nose. He begins this at about 14 minutes into his presentation. Oddly enough, ‘nose touching’ is quite common among American speakers. I’ve regularly seen business speakers, politicians, and others touch their nose throughout a Speech or Presentation.
Were you aware of this prior to having it pointed out in this video? How do you feel about it? Is this something You do or might be doing?
I believe that movement about the stage is good, although I think in this case it’s distracting despite his strong personality. Movement adds variety, keeps the audience focused on you and hopefully, your message. Unless you’re delivering a formal speech at a lectern, usually with a microphone, I recommend adding movement to your Presentations. Now,
‘nose touching’ is a distraction at best. It could be considered an unhealthy habit. It might even be looked upon as a dirty habit by some people and in some cultures. I would strongly advise you to stop it if you do it, and avoid it if you don’t. And let me add,
Note: Since I pointed this trait out to you, you will begin to notice many Speakers that regularly touch their nose, sorry ’bout that. And, this is in no way a negative comment on Tony Robbins who has positively touched the lives of so many people.
