JCOM 2300

America officially has its next president. After the most historic presidential race in history, Barack Obama came out on top.
In the article A New Day For America: The Next Great Communicator, Obama's charisma is said to have greatly aided his win. The authors, Jim Cameron and Amy Fond point out six main points that carried Barack to victory.
1. TECHNOLOGY: With TelePrompTers involved in the deliverance of speeches, it is important to not look like you are reading off a screen. Obama does this with eloquence, grace and does not let advanced technology set him back.
2. CONNECTING: Even when speaking to a large crowd, Obama makes eye contact. He unites the masses through his words and even brings tears to his supporters eyes.
3. STORIES: People retain information much better when they have something to connect to. Obama brings in stories which allow his audience a more personal connection to what he is saying.
4. LANGUAGE: His word choice and voice intonation bring the audience in and give variety to his speeches. They are not just mundane.
5. REPETITION: Repeating things over and over will make people remember what has been said. Obama constantly repeated his points of importance which made the American people know exactly what he stands for.
6. HE'S REAL: With his charming smile and friendly personality, Obama seems like someone you could sit down with and have a cup of hot coco. No faking here. Americans feel like they can trust and relate to this person.
As PR majors, we could all take a hefty page out of Obama's book. His communication skills may not be the only reason he won, but they certainly did help.