How Does a Speechwriter Spend a Workday?
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Overview
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A speechwriter is the unsung heroes and behind-the-scene player that has helped craft most of history's great speeches. Think JFK's "Ask not what your country can do for you;" FDR's, "We have nothing to fear but fear itself;" and now Obama's, "We will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist." While the speechwriter is known mainly for political speechwriting (the main focus of this article), he also works with other leaders, such as those in the business and corporate world and anyone of consequence who needs to make a public statement. A speechwriter can work as a staff member for politicians, political parties, candidates for political office and government and non-governmental organizations.
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Workday
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The workday of a speechwriter is not typical and there is no one-size-fits-all description. A lot depends on where the speechwriter works and the particular speechwriter's style. Most speechwriters who work for prominent political leaders, such as the president, governors or other political leaders, have greater work loads and many more deadlines. This is because their bosses have to deliver speeches almost on a daily basis. The pressure is especially greater during a political campaign--the higher the office, the greater the stakes.
Work Location
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Some speechwriters work out of their offices, others like to switch their work places from time to time. During the 2008 presidential campaign for example, Jon Favreau, President Obama's chief speechwriter, would work at Starbucks, in a windowless closet-size room and in Red Bull fueled all-night writing sessions with members of the speechwriting staff. See a link in Resources below for a profile of Favreau.
What It Takes
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The most important quality you must possess as a speechwriter is the ability to put yourself in another person's shoes, think in another person's voice and write in that voice. This of course involves seriously studying your subject, getting to know him and his values and in many cases sharing those values.
Education
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There is no set educational background necessary to become a speechwriter. However most speechwriters are good writers and have a strong background in one more more of the following: journalism, history, politics and law. People who want to become speechwriters right out of college try to join a politician's office either as an assistant or as part of the speechwriting staff and then work their way up. Others join political campaigns and work to ensure their candidates get elected.
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Resources
- Photo Credit ABC News, www.donkeydish.com
