Why Gordon and Dave should get ‘naked’…
If you haven’t seen Jamie Oliver’s recent talk at TED (see below) then you should, if only for two reasons.
Firstly, it offers a stark reminder of the problems we’re creating in relation to food production/consumption and the massive impact this has on our health and wellbeing (more on this in a later post).
Secondly, and the focus for today’s post, is that he offers a masterclass in how to communicate with an audience. He takes a cross section of people, many of whom he will be ‘alien’ to, and successfully makes a strong and compelling case for his cause. Perhaps there are lessons here for our current bunch of political leaders?
The Naked Chef follows a number of simple rules:
1. He offers us his personality – JO shows us himself throughout, and doesn’t pretend to be anything else (I’m a chef, not a doctor…). He’s not afraid to fluff his lines or show his vulnerabilities (sorry I’m slow but that’s what happens when you’re dyslexic) because he believes in what he’s sharing with us. And because of this, we believe him too.
2. He establishes credibility – he uses undisputed facts and figures and presents them in a way that connects to day to day life (US death rates due to heart disease versus homicide). He demonstrates the results he has already achieved but offers a vision of what more could be done with greater awareness/help/support (never be afraid to ask for help). We understand and accept what he’s telling us.
3. He is passionate and committed – his tone and style of delivery tells us he’s passionate about what he’s saying. But more than that, he’s committed his own time and energy to trying to solve this problem. He didn’t ask for permission (or a mandate), but saw a need and went about trying to solve it anyway. We sense and appreciate his commitment.
4. He is results driven – JO is very clear about what needs to be done and how to achieve it. Not just a vision/idea, but a tangible change which can be seen and measured. He also demonstrates that it works and shows the change he has already brought about. We like and trust people who can deliver/demonstrate positive change and results.
5. He offers solutions – he offers a route forward, one that does not appear to be difficult or complex. He outlines what can be achieved by following a logical approach – he makes us view what might be seen as a ‘radical approach’ as the ‘common sense’ approach. We like simple answers to big problems.
The result is someone who we feel we can believe and trust in.
Now, over to you Gordon and Dave….
