Read Chapters 11.1, 11.2, and 11.3 in Business Communication for Success. These readings discuss how what we say can be strengthened, weakened, or even contradicted, by the way we say it. While there is no ‘dictionary’ of how to interpret nonverbal messages either within cultures, or between them, all audiences tend to respond well to speakers who convey confidence and clarity. Some movement techniques you can learn to increase your public speaking effectiveness include using the ‘speaker’s triangle,’ the three-step arm and hand sequence, and appropriate facial expressions and eye contact.
Recommended: Do these modified versions of the chapter exercises. First, try communicating without using verbal messages in a few conversations during your day. How well did the communication go? Then, ask someone to video you while you have a conversation with a friend or family member. View the video and observe your body movements and facial expressions. What would you do differently if you were giving a public presentation?
Share what you learned from doing these two exercises.
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