One way to become a successful communicator is learn from those who paved the way.

This week we celebrate the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Historically, he is one of the world’s most well known, impactful, and highly regarded communicators.
In short, this superb communicator (orator, writer and preacher) uplifted people, raised awareness, and sold most of the nation on providing freedom and equality for others. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a man who understood the power of communication and used it to make difference and produce change.

Today his words, guidance and inspiration float through publications, cyberspace, song lyrics, and other media outlets to inspire current a future generations to believe in that which they can not see, face their fears, promote freedom, continued equality and that anything is possible!

Men often hate each other because they fear each other; they fear each other because they don’t know each other; they don’t know each other because they can not communicate; they can not communicate because they are separated.”
~ Martin Luther King, Jr.(Stride Toward Freedom: The Montgomery Story, 1958)

In fact, I ask you to think about Martin Luther King, Jr. He had hundreds of quotable moments and many well known speeches, but can you name his most memorable, powerful and impactful speech?

Martin Luther King – I Have A Dream Speech – August 28, 1963

As you watch the video above try and listen to the way he communicates his message(s). Pay attention to the tone, emphasis on certain words or phrases. Start to think about how you emphasis when you discuss or present information to either one person or a small group and try to embody your inner “King” when you communicate.

References

Caputo, J., Hazel, H., McMahon, C., & Dannels, D. (2002). Communicating effectively: Linking thought and expression. Dubuque, IA: Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company

Diep, E. (2014, January 20). 20 Rap Songs That Reference Martin Luther King Jr. Retrieved from http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/01/20-rap-songs-reference-martin-luther-king-jr/

Sullentoyss. (1963, August 28). Martin Luther King – I Have A Dream Speech [Video Clip], Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smEqnnklfYs