Both Democrat and Republican gatherings are traditionally highly orchestrated and tightly run affairs. So, it was quite the surprise when veteran actor Clint Eastwood delivered a rambling 12 minute monologue to an empty chair, meant to represent President Obama.
Clint carried out the one-sided conversation with the imaginary leader of the free world (a long lost 60's phrase) that left everyone scratching their head.
It would have only been a few moments into the Eastwood monologue, when folks noticed the Hollywood tough guy was way off script. The Republican event organizers, stage producers and other hands must have wished the earth would open and just swallow them up - or at least take Clint. The next day audiences of all descriptions- conventioneers and social media and TV audiences - were left wondering what Clint said and who checked what?
Events are a tool of the trade for PR people. I have organised many in the last 20 years but fortunately never been Eastwooded in such the spectacular way Clint did to the Romney camp.
I have witnessed the occasional speaker wander so far off their assigned topic, they needed a compass to find their way back to the audience. And the more senior they are, the greater the potential there is for speakers to ramble and go off course.
If you are organising an event it is always wise to check beforehand: firstly that your scheduled speaker will show up but, more importantly to find out what they plan to say before they say it. So assure yourself the speakers at your next event will complement and not compete with the theme of your gathering.
But which would you prefer: making sure your speakers will reinforce the theme of your event or stand in the wings watching them Eastwood all your hard work.
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