Who Were The Best And Worst Communicators Of 2014? [Video]

Breaking out of the mold, the best communicators of 2014 stepped up to the plate (one of them did that, literally), authentically speaking from the heart and letting passion drive. Likable, consistent and remarkably humble, they consistently connected with their audiences.

And then there's those arrogant and clueless worst communicators.

There is no such thing as private speaking, and Decker Communications' Top Ten Best and Worst Communicators of 2014 proves it. These famous examples from business, politics, sports and pop culture have left indelible impressions this year – both for better and for worse.

"Our 19th annual list of the top ten best and worst communicators shines a light on the best and worst in all of us. Every communication experience is about what you say and how you say it – and each person on this list offers a lesson about the experience," said Ben Decker, CEO of Decker Communications, the leading business communications training and consulting firm.

Best Communicators of 2014:

1. Robin Williams, in memoriam, actor and comedian
2. Richard Branson, founder, Virgin Group
3. Wendy Clark, senior marketing executive, Coca-Cola
4. Derek Jeter, retired shortstop, New York Yankees
5. Jimmy Fallon, host, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon
6. Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner
7. Lupita Nyong'o, actress
8. Kathy Murphy, president, Fidelity Personal Investing
9. Taylor Swift, pop star
10. Tony Fadell, CEO and founder, Nest

Robin Williams tops the best list this year because he epitomized a critical skill of all top communicators – spontaneity and the ability to be in the moment. He was unique, funny, and deserving of in memoriam honors for his work. But above all – he was present. He used his brilliant mind, as well as his body and props to add physical expression to his words, taking advantage of the ever-present unexpected. Though very few can be like Robin Williams, we can all use him as inspiration for spontaneity and wit in all our communicating.

Here's Robin talking about his battles with drugs, be careful as language is NSFW.

The Lowlights:

Arrogant, avoidant and oblivious to the consequences, the worst communicators of 2014 serve as reminders that we are all public speakers, whether to audiences of one or many, behind closed doors or beneath bright lights.

Worst Communicators of 2014:

1. Donald Sterling, former owner, LA Clippers
2. Chuck Hagel, former U.S. Secretary of Defense
3. Michael Bay, Hollywood director
4. Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner
5. Jill Abramson, former executive editor, New York Times
6. Kanye West, R&B star
7. Stephen A. Smith, ESPN commentator
8. Rikk Wilde, zone manager, Chevrolet
9. Richard Ledgett, deputy director, National Security Agency
10. Barack Obama, president of the United States

With the internet, the world is an open mic, as Donald Sterling knows so well. What you say always counts – as in the grossly racist conversation recorded between the LA Clippers ex-owner Sterling and his girlfriend V Stiviano. The media backlash was intense, and Sterling's month-long silence and lack of remorse didn't help. He failed miserably by not exhibiting any humility or contrition. His "private" comments were heard and judged, to his own travail.

Decker Communications provides communication strategies, training and actionable insights to C-suite executives and their teams at Fortune 500 companies, leading non-profits and startups. Most of their teachings, however, are relevant and applicable to a wider audience.