The Power of Words

by Clint Maun, CSP

Do you possess the power of the spoken word? Never underestimate the authority words can provide. In 1896, a relatively unknown congressman from a midwestern state attended the Democratic National Convention as an alternate delegate. He was only 36, yet made a speech so powerful that the convention ended by the delegates nominating him as their party's candidate for President of the United States. That man was William Jennings Bryan.

Imagine going from a virtual unknown to a Presidential candidate. That is the power of verbal communication. If you express your ideas or in some cases just express yourself - you can command tremendous influence.

If you're involved in a group - no matter what type of group it is - you'll observe this phenomenon. The group gets together for some purpose or goal - it can range from a few people gossiping over cigarettes and coffee all the way to a group organizing to do neighborhood improvements - you'll notice someone speaks up about the issues, needs, concerns, or ideas and the next thing you know that person is placed in charge of the group, committee, or task force. Through their willingness to speak up they have verbally communicated their way into a position of leadership.

If you're looking for leadership in your group, we suggest you open your mouth and intelligently start talking. Words carefully thought out and appropriately presented can change the course of events, large and small. Imagine what the power of thoughtful words might do for you!