He was present. Henry was on the ground, among his men, listening. He was receptive to what was being said and he was able to respond immediately to the genuine concern that was expressed.
He was flexible. He was prepared but he could adapt to the needs of the moment.
He was honest. Nowhere does he pretend that they are going to have an easy time of it.
He was straight. His language is clear, unambiguous and easily understood by everyone. He uses images and concepts that have direct meaning and relevance to his hearers. He knows what their core motivators are. In this case it is honor, glory and being members of a select band of brothers. (How many leaders have you seen who have not understood this basic principle, that if you want to motivate people you must understand people's emotional anchors).
" This story shall the good man teach his son; .
And Crispin Crispian shall ne"er go by, .
From this day to the ending of the world, .
But we in it shall be remembered-.
We few, we happy few, we band of brothers;".
He was fair. He does not ascribe fault or blame to those who have voiced their concerns.
He was involved. Like all good motivational speakers he was passionate and committed to what he was saying.
He was clear. At the end of the speech everybody knew what they had to think, feel and do. .
He was timely. He spoke to his men at the right time, so that the energy created by his speech could be directed immediately into action. (This is a crucial element of any change program where the energy created by change must be continually recreated so that the change does not fail).
" For he today that sheds his blood with me .
Shall be my brother; be he ne"er so vile,.
This day shall gentle his condition;.
And gentlemen in England now a-bed.
Shall think themselves accurs"d they were not here.
And hold their manhoods cheap whiles any speaks.
That fought with us upon Saint Crispin's day.".
There are many other motivational texts within Henry V that are employed with speeches.