[Image by Gerd Altmann of Pixabay]
We say so much and may not even realize it. Communication occurs both verbally and non-verbally which is why I coach my clients about using head to toe communication as much as possible.
The key to effective communication is the use of variation. Without variation, speakers may be too predictable. By contrast, with variation, speakers become unpredictable, which is positive. Here’s what I mean when I say unpredictable:
- Posture: Speakers may choose to sit or stand. They may also use their torso to increase or decrease their proximity to their listeners. One technique used by speakers is referred to as staging. For example, when presenting chronological information, the speaker chooses to position himself in one location and that location then signifies a point in time.
- Eye Connection: Speakers want to increase their eye connection to their audience but avoid staring. Maintaining effective eye connection helps build rapport and personalizes contact with audience members. Of course, speakers may widen their eyes or squint when appropriate.
- Gestures: A speaker may use their face, hands, arms, feet, head or any part of their body to emphasize a point or concept. A very effective facial gesture is the half-smile which is viewed as friendly. Thinking of the hands, one example, when referring to amount is to either position the hand higher or lower. Another example when referring to size is to bring both hands in or out. Try to remember that any gesture should enhance or support the message vs. be a distraction.
- Silence: Speakers who use the “power of the pause” know its many benefits. Knowing how to strategically be silent is a technique that is beneficial to both the speaker and the listener. It is a time to rest or preserve the speaker’s voice, it draws attention to a particular word or phrase, and may also be an opportunity for the listener to process what’s been said.
- Rate: Speakers want to be mindful that the audience’s level of familiarity with the message dictates the speed with which it’s presented. Therefore, the speaker speeds up when the audience knows the subject or slows down when the topic is less known.
- Volume: Depending on the message, speakers may choose to increase or decrease their volume in order to hold their listeners’ attention. Using a microphone is highly recommended, especially for members of the audience, who may have a hearing loss.
- Intonation: The goal is for the speaker to use both a rising and a falling intonation when speaking. This avoids speaking in a monotone, which is considered to be uniform. It can be viewed as mundane and the meaning or intention may be lost.
Communication is so much more than the words that come out of our mouth. This is why I refer to head to toe as an alternative. If you need ideas, have questions or comments, I welcome staying in touch. Please either email [email protected] or call 518-664-6004 and I’ll be happy to assist you or your colleagues.