In 2022, Taylor Swift delivered a commencement speech at Yankee Stadium for graduates of New York University, where she spoke for about thirty minutes and received an honorary doctorate. Some people may find it amusing that celebrities get honorary degrees, but many students reportedly enjoyed the experience. A communication expert, Dorie Clark, has highlighted Swift’s speech as an excellent example of how to conclude a speech effectively. She analyzed Swift’s delivery to show how skillfully the singer wrapped up her address. Clark pointed out three “powerful public speaking strategies” that Swift used, emphasizing that these techniques can benefit anyone who is speaking publicly. She mentioned that Swift has a method for elevating a good speech into a great one and noted that once people recognize it, they will want to use it frequently.
In an Instagram video titled “The Taylor Swift trick for closing a speech,” Clark introduced herself, sharing her background in teaching communication at Duke University for over ten years and coaching many leaders from prominent companies. She remarked that it is rare to see someone conclude a speech as effectively as Swift did during her NYU address. The segment then shifted to Swift, who wore a stylish purple graduation gown and had her cap tilted like a beret. She commented about breathing and humorously referred to her new title, which made the audience laugh.
After showing Swift’s speech, Clark explained why the conclusion was so powerful. She noted that many speakers try to end on a positive note, reassuring the audience that everything would be okay. However, Swift took a different approach by using three effective public speaking strategies that anyone can apply in their next speech.
Clark highlighted the first strategy as meeting the audience where they are, acknowledging their concerns about the future. She suggested that Swift’s reminder to breathe in and out was also a clever reference to her songs. The second strategy was humor, as Swift ended her speech with a lighthearted joke about being a “doctor.” Lastly, Clark emphasized the importance of showing solidarity with the audience. She explained that uniting with listeners is a powerful tool for speakers, whether they are famous or regular individuals with influence.
Clark encouraged everyone to consider these three strategies the next time they give a speech: connect with the audience’s feelings, incorporate humor, and foster a sense of togetherness. Many viewers responded positively to this advice, although some playfully noted that Swift is not an ordinary person. One Instagram user humorously suggested that while Clark’s insights are valuable, she may be a fan of Swift.
What are your thoughts on these public speaking strategies?
Sources:
Source: Upworthy, by Cecily Knobler