Let’s say I need to fire up a room full of C-suite execs at a mining company about the importance of embracing innovation. Here’s how I’d deliver that message, inspired by the “Inch by Inch” speech:
(Stands confidently centre stage, scans the room, making eye contact with individuals)
“Alright, listen up! We’re in a fight. Not against each other, but for the future of this company. The world’s changing faster than ever. Commodity prices, global uncertainty, new technologies… it’s a battlefield out there. And the truth is, we’re losing ground. Inch by inch, we’re being outmaneuvered, outpaced by competitors who are hungrier, more agile. They’re not afraid to take risks, to disrupt the status quo.
(Paces the stage, voice rising with intensity)
“I remember when this company was the disruptor. When we were the ones setting the pace, leading the charge. But somewhere along the way, we got comfortable. We started playing it safe. We became more concerned with protecting what we have than with fighting for what we could have.
(Stops pacing, leans in towards the audience)
“Now, I’m not gonna lie. Innovation is tough. It’s messy. It requires us to step outside our comfort zones, to challenge our assumptions. We’re gonna make mistakes. We’re gonna stumble. But you know what? That’s okay! Because the biggest mistake we can make is to do nothing. To let fear paralyse us.
(Looks intently at a few individuals in the audience)
“Think about your own careers. The times you took a chance, pushed yourself beyond your limits. Those moments of growth, of triumph… they didn’t come from playing it safe, did they? They came from embracing the challenge, from fighting for every inch.
(Spreads arms wide, encompassing the whole room)
“So, here’s the choice. We can continue down the path we’re on, slowly but surely losing ground. Or, we can fight back! We can reclaim our position as leaders, as innovators. We can build a future where this company is once again the one to beat.
(Pauses, lets the silence hang in the air)
“The question is… are you with me? Are you willing to fight for every inch?”
(Holds their gaze, waiting for a response)
Key elements used:
- Authenticity: The speech draws on a personal connection to the company’s history, conveying genuine concern and passion.
- Body language: Pacing, leaning in, using hand gestures all contribute to the energy and dynamism of the delivery.
- Vocal variety: Varying the tone and pace keeps the audience engaged and emphasises key points.
- Personal experience: Sharing a personal anecdote about taking risks makes the message more relatable.
- Giving choices: Presenting the audience with a clear choice empowers them to take action.
- Audience involvement: Direct eye contact and the final question create a sense of shared responsibility.
- Conditions of winning/losing: The speech highlights the external pressures and internal challenges that impact the company’s success.
- Call to action: The final question provides a clear and immediate call to action.