How to Connect With Anyone, Anywhere, Anytime | Simon Lancaster

Simon Lancaster is one of the world's leading speechwriters, having written for heads of state, CEOs, and some of the most powerful communicators on the planet. He's also one of the clearest thinkers on the art of rhetoric -- the ancient discipline that underpins every great speech, presentation, and keynote.In this episode Simon returns to the show to share the communication tools from his book Connect, exploring how speakers can genuinely reach people -- not just deliver information at them.If you've ever struggled to create real connection with an audience, especially in high-stakes speaking situations, this episode is for you.What you'll learn in this episodeSimon's six powerful speechmaking tools for creating instant connection with any audience, why rhetoric isn't manipulation -- it's the foundation of all effective communication, how the best speakers in the world structure their language to inspire and energise a room, what Simon discovered about human connection during the lockdowns that changed how he thinks about communication, and why most speakers focus on the wrong things when they prepare for a high-stakes talk.About Simon LancasterSimon Lancaster is a speechwriter, author, and communication expert whose clients have included some of the most influential leaders in politics and business. His TEDx Verona talk on rhetoric has introduced thousands of people to the power of language. His book Connect explores how to build genuine human connection through communication.Books mentioned in this episodeSense by Russell Jones and How Confidence Works by Ian Robertson.If this episode resonated with youThe gap between being a good speaker and being a speaker people ask for by name is rarely about delivery. It's about whether your audience feels genuinely connected to your message. Take the free Speaker Growth Diagnostic to find out what's actually blocking your bookings, fees, and referrals: strategic-speaker.scoreapp.comRelated episodes: The Language of Leadership with Simon LancasterVisit https://strategic-speaker.scoreapp.com to take the 2-minute Strategic Speaking Business Audit and find out what's blocking you from getting more bookings, re-bookings, referrals and bigger fees. There's a special surprise gift for everyone who completes the quiz.Want to get coached for free on the show? Fill in the form https://forms.gle/mo4xYkEiCjqtz9yP6, and if we think your challenge could help others, we'll invite you on.For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email [email protected] or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening. Rating the show 5* on Spotify helps their algo recommend the show, so please take a moment to follow the show and leave a rating.Mentioned in this episode:Speaker Fee AuditFind out in less than a minute if you're undercharging for your speaking and where you need to look to fix any leaks with the Speaker Fee Audit. It's free to take and find out if you're missing out on money.