22 November 2008
Edwards takes potshot at male communicators
28 March 2007
By Elfreda Gers: Te Waha Nui Online
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Broadcaster and media consultant Dr Brian Edwards, formerly a lecturer at AUT, entertained School of Communication Studies graduates, staff and industry personalities at the annual graduation “Oscars night”.
“I wish I was back. I’m so impressed. I think it’s tremendous,” he told prize winners, hailing them as the future players in New Zealand communications.
But Edwards described New Zealand Pakeha - especially men - as poor verbal communicators.
Out of 32 award winners, 10 were Pakeha men.
Marc Checkley, winner of the John Foy Memorial Award for excellence in broadcast journalism, agrees with Edwards.
“It’s the most insightful thing he said.”
The 30-year-old says the “tall poppy syndrome” is prevalent in New Zealand.
“A guy would rather show you than tell you.”
He says New Zealand is a contrast with other countries where the tallest poppies are praised.
Matthew Evans, 22-year-old graduate of the year for the school’s new major, creative industries, says the girls usually dominated in the course, with guys being outnumbered, lacking confidence and needing more practice at talking in group environments.
He concedes that “once you get the boys going, they realise they aren’t being jumped on and it’s not that bad”.
Roger Beaumont, TV3’s director of marketing and communications, presented the award for top production writer.
He says the mood of silence is among older men, due to the “strong silent type” Kiwi attitude.
“Fortunately this is changing and is significantly less of an issue for New Zealand men under 40.”
Beaumont is happy to see an increasing number of men doing communication courses.
Dr Edwards stressed how New Zealand’s communications industry needs more top achievers.
“You are one of New Zealand’s most precious resources, the profession desperately needs people like you,” he told graduates.
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