Who Were The Best And Worst Communicators Of 2014?

Leading Business Communication Firm Announces 19th Annual Top Ten List

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Dec 16, 2014, 06:06 ET

NEW YORK, Dec. 16, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- There is no such thing as private speaking, and Decker Communications' Top Ten Best and Worst Communicators of 2014 proves it. These famous examples from business, politics, sports and pop culture have left indelible impressions this year – both for better and for worse.

"Our 19^th annual list of the top ten best and worst communicators shines a light on the best and worst in all of us. Every communication experience is about what you say and how you say it – and each person on this list offers a lesson about the experience," said Ben Decker, CEO of Decker Communications, the leading business communications training and consulting firm.

Decker added, "It offers great reminders of what to avoid, along with a healthy dose of inspiration to make us all more effective. Everyone should set a goal of adopting two traits from this year's best communicators."

Decker Communications provides communication strategies, training and actionable insights to C-suite executives and their teams at Fortune 500 companies, leading non-profits and startups. Most of their teachings, however, are relevant and applicable to a wider audience.

The Highlights:

Breaking out of the mold, the best communicators of 2014 stepped up to the plate (one of them did that, literally), authentically speaking from the heart and letting passion drive. Likable, consistent and remarkably humble, they consistently connected with their audiences.

Best Communicators of 2014:

Robin Williams, in memoriam, actor and comedian
Richard Branson, founder, Virgin Group
Wendy Clark, senior marketing executive, Coca-Cola
Derek Jeter, retired shortstop, New York Yankees
Jimmy Fallon, host, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon
Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner
Lupita Nyong'o, actress
Kathy Murphy, president, Fidelity Personal Investing
Taylor Swift, pop star
Tony Fadell, CEO and founder, Nest

Robin Williams tops the best list this year because he epitomized a critical skill of all top communicators – spontaneity and the ability to be in the moment. He was unique, funny, and deserving of in memoriam honors for his work. But above all – he was present. He used his brilliant mind, as well as his body and props to add physical expression to his words, taking advantage of the ever-present unexpected. Though very few can be like Robin Williams, we can all use him as inspiration for spontaneity and wit in all our communicating.

The Lowlights:

Arrogant, avoidant and oblivious to the consequences, the worst communicators of 2014 serve as reminders that we are all public speakers, whether to audiences of one or many, behind closed doors or beneath bright lights.

Worst Communicators of 2014:

Donald Sterling, former owner, LA Clippers
Chuck Hagel, former U.S. Secretary of Defense
Michael Bay, Hollywood director
Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner
Jill Abramson, former executive editor, New York Times
Kanye West, R&B star
Stephen A. Smith, ESPN commentator
Rikk Wilde, zone manager, Chevrolet
Richard Ledgett, deputy director, National Security Agency
Barack Obama, president of the United States

With the internet, the world is an open mic, as Donald Sterling knows so well. What you say always counts – as in the grossly racist conversation recorded between the LA Clippers (ex) owner Sterling and his girlfriend V Stiviano. The media backlash was intense, and Sterling's month-long silence and lack of remorse didn't help. He failed miserably by not exhibiting any humility or contrition. His "private" comments were heard and judged, to his own travail.

To learn more communication lessons and see examples of the Top 10 Best and Worst Communicators of 2014, please visit decker.com/blog.

About Decker Communications:
Decker Communications consults and trains businesses in communications – both in what they say and how they say it. Working with thousands of leaders in Fortune 500 companies to strategize and implement solutions that are practical, direct and attainable, Decker is the leading expert in business communications. Decker programs build focus and confidence to help leaders close the deal, launch an initiative or motivate action. Since 1979, Decker has prepared individuals to create the most effective communications experience possible. For more information, visit http://decker.com.