Boris or Jeremy? The five behaviours that will make the difference
Bespoke media coaching business Primedia Solutions is pointing out to Boris Johnson and Jeremy Corbyn, as they embark on their first head to head election debate, that their actions will speak louder than their words as the country watches their performance.
Director at Primedia Solutions, Peter Ibbetson, says that they should take learnings from the first Presidential televised debate in the States when Nixon faced Kennedy. " Nixon was suffering from a recent injury and looked pained on the television. Kennedy looked fresh and fit. Kennedy won hands down in the television ratings. But listeners, rather than viewers, backed Nixon, based on his policies,' he says. 'There is ample evidence that visual performance will override what words are actually used. Clegg was empathetic with the audience in the Cameron, Brown, Clegg debate, and whilst his policies were light, won over on the ratings.'
Peter Ibbetson suggests the five key must do's to maximise the influencing stakes.
Appearance
Someone please provide both of them with a comb. Whilst they might both like their images, even the most fashionable hairdresser will expect them to look like the leader of one of the world's great nations.
Dress
If you must leave your jacket on, leave it open not fastened. But better still go 'jacket off' to show you are engaged and not reserved. Blue shirt, not white (but don't forget the anti sweat cream) will be attractive to the non starch collar voters. Cufflinks or buttons are fine, but don't roll your sleeves up. You aren't gardening!
Body Language
Don't hide behind a lectern. Open hands are welcoming. Finger pointing is not an option.
Ears before mouth
Listen before you respond and think who you are responding to before speaking and address them at their level. Use words that they will understand, and don't be glib. Not everyone is as bright as you would like to think you are. Don't shout or mumble. Take time, calmly addressing questions in a serious and honest way.
Respect
Try, for the whole session, not to abuse your opposite number. Treat him with respect, even if you don't agree with him. Just make sure everyone knows you are doing just that. Remember, the whole country is completely fed up with politicians having pops at each other rather than delivering for their constituents, and they will find a calm, sensible, respectful one very refreshing.
'Strategies are important,' says Peter Ibbetson, 'but an average audience will not remember more than three. They do however remember the actual performance, and many will vote on that alone.'
Contact:
Peter Ibbetson. Peter.ibbetson@primediasolutions.com
07903951152
Images attached:
Headshot of Peter Ibbetson
Peter Ibbetson and Gemma Guise (Primedia Manager) standing where either Boris or Jeremy will be on December 12