Chapter 5: Connecting is more Skill than Natural Talent

One must study communication to improve at connecting.

John Maxwell attended a conference with many well known speakers, these are his observations of those who connected with their audience and those who did not.

Common styles of connectors

• Mark Russell. Had audience laughing and thinking. Asked nearly 100 questions.
• Mario Cuomo. Most passionate.
• C. Everett Koop. Master at using illustrations.
• Elizabeth Dole. Made every person fee like her best friend. Easy confidence.
• Steve Forbes. Brilliant and informative. Made everything he talked about sound new.
• Colin Powell. Put everyone at ease. Confident voice and demeanor. When he spoke, made us confident in ourselves. Gave hope.