Don't Just Say it, Show it

Source: Washington Post

Republican Presidential hopeful Mitt Romney has taken to using a giant "debt clock" during his campaign appearances to draw attention to the nation's growing financial woes.

As he talks with crowds, he gestures at the clock (built by Romney aides) and refers to the nation's debt problem with statements such as, “If I’m president of the United States, Mr. President, I’ll do a better job slowing down that clock and hopefully getting it to start reversing and getting Americans back to work.”

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Romney has found a way to set himself apart from the typical politician speaking at a typical campaign rally to a typical crowd. He doesn't just talk about the debt, he shows it. The numbers actually change during his talk.

In public relations and media relations terms, Romney is using a prop or a visual. And the media love visuals. Photographers and video editors are always on the lookout for something to break up the monotony of the "talking heads." 

So, the magic is in the visuals. What you say at a news conference is important. Sometimes you need a catchy visual to improve your chances of being heard.