Is Obama Really a Good Talker?

"A great orator!"  That seems to be the daily buzz, even from those who don't like Obama's policies. But taking a closer look, what's his real grade?


The good news?
Obama has a beautiful booming voice, capable of raising the dead when necessary. It resonates with a smooth, mellow, low pitch that gives instant credibility to his words. He is skilled at using his voice effectively to make strong, emphatic points. He articulates words clearly or pronounces his words colloquially, whichever serves him best in the moment.


The bad news?
Through his increased visibility, it becomes clear that his speeches are either being read from a teleprompter or he is struggling to find his own voice--with sentences that sound like running jabs followed by awkward pauses. Some may think this is for effect, while others see it as a distracting pause that serves to allow his mind to catch up to what he has just said and ready for what he will say next.


#1: Overuse of qualifiers
"Make no mistake."
"Let me be clear."
Article on "Let Me Be Clear"



#2: Reading his material

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=of61E1fesPU



#3: Overuse of "I"
"I think, I know, I realize, I will..."
Articles on Obama Using "I"



#4: Lack of Preparation (mispronunciation of words rob credibility)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZlKIfzoC8D0

Obama's Oratory Skill:  B-