How many of you have been somewhere for business or vacation and a blown or distorted speaker (the equipment, not the human) makes the human speaker's message so garbled that it is nearly impossible to decipher? My recent trip subjected me to two examples--both of which could have turned dangerous-- because I had not clearly heard the orientation necessary before coming into contact with potentially dangerous animals I knew little about. Clearly, I needed to be instructed on how to safely encounter them--or more accurately--I needed to be instructed clearly. The two incidents highlighted the importance of nonverbal communication.
On each of the two occasions, I did not have the opportunity to observe the human who was giving the instruction. Consequently, I could not pick up or evaluate any nonverbal communication like the speaker's demeanor, gestures, or posture. An effectively communicating speaker--when observed--understands and appreciates the importance of a confident posture and contextual, appropriate gestures to communicate the message. "According to various researchers, body language is thought to account for between 50 to 70 percent of all communication."
Both speakers (human) would have been aided by the speaker's use of vocal techniques that communicate a speaker's message more effectively. But in both experiences, the speakers were either not properly trained in those techniques or had been so long at their job--or repeated the speech so often--that they were either not capable or not interested in conveying the message effectively--clearly and in a persuasive manner or a way in which the information was likely to be retained by the audience. Even when I was able to decipher portions of the orientation speeches, they were delivered in a monotone and sounded as though the speaker was reading from the page, a no-no for conveying your message.
Here are three quick tips for effective verbal communication that you can take away now:
Don't read from the page--grab the next bit of text, lift your eyes off the page, and make eye contact with your audience
Don't pepper your presentation with filler words--the "uhs" and "you knows"--practice the SPIT technique
Don't speak in a monotone--vary pitch, volume, and rhythm--use the VIPERS technique
The words being spoken to me on my recent trip were essential for the safety of the audience and I listened very intently to try and decipher them. But as I looked around the room, it was clear that the audience's attention had been lost. People were bored--disengaged--and complained to each other about the horrific sound. Without nonverbal communication, the message was nearly impossible to understand. The incidents I have described demonstrate that nonverbal communication is essential to delivering your message--whether at a tourist attraction--in a persuasive speaking context like a courtroom--or when giving a speech to a group in a business or more casual atmosphere.
If your speech lacks elements necessary for effective communication--or your nonverbal communication--like gestures or posture--conveys the wrong message--your audience often comes away confused and distracted and has gained little if any benefit from your communication.
While your voice can effectively communicate your message through proper use of volume, inflection, pitch, enunciation, rhythm, and silence (using the VIPERS technique), the research beyond question confirms that correct use of gestures increases your audience's understanding and retention of your communication. Appropriate use of this nonverbal communication demonstrates your sincere belief in the message being conveyed.
Learn what to do with your hands. But make sure those gestures are consistent with your message and not overly aggressive or indicative of nervousness. Here are three simple nonverbal communication tips:
Don't death grip your podium--keep your gestures open in a manner that has been used for thousands of years indicating friendliness and a lack of weapons
Don't hold your pen or another object in your hand--it inhibits effective gestures
Don't point at your audience in an aggressive manner
If you are uncomfortable with using gestures at first, record yourself or use a mirror until you become more comfortable. (See eg., Public Speaking Tips on Hand Gestures.) Repeat this mantra: "You have to practice, practice, practice to be natural."
Finally, if the speaker (equipment) is malfunctioning, don't let the machinery get in your way. As long as the speaker (human) can use the VIPERS effective techniques of vocal persuasion and the posture and gestures of a confident, effective speaker, the speaker (human) will never malfunction—and you will drive your message home.
If you lack confidence, Harry can give you the tools to gain confidence--if you are already good, he can work with you to get better--and if you are very good, you appreciate that the combination of vocal and physical persuasion skills make you a more effective communicator and want to be even better. For more tips, go to TheActingAttorney.com.
If you want to do the work needed to improve:
Individuals can contact me at Harry@TheActingAttorney.com today and set up an in-person meeting or a Skype session--or call me directly at (505) 293-6859.
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