Public Speaking: NONVERBAL DELIVERY

OBJECTIVES Explain why nonverbal delivery is important Explain the relationship between verbal and nonverbal delivery Identify and explain the seven major elements of nonverbal delivery List strategies for improving nonverbal delivery

Importance of Nonverbal Delivery The 1960 historic debates between Kennedy and Nixon took place on television and radio. Television: Kennedy looked energetic, self- confident, and in command; Nixon looked tired and drawn (just recently released from hospital stay) Radio: Listeners selected Nixon as victor; he was more prepared and knowledgeable about topics Kennedy wins election. What does this tells us?

Relationship between verbal and nonverbal delivery Most communication is nonverbal Nonverbal reinforces the verbal Nonverbal can replace the verbal Nonverbal can contradict the verbal

Elements of Nonverbal Delivery Posture and stance Appearance Movement Gestures Eye Contact Facial Expressions Paralinguistics

Posture and Stance The way you stand has much to do with how you sound as well as how you look and move Erect posture = projected voice, good breathing, eliminates choppiness Communicates you are interested in the topic and enthusiastic about your speech. IMPROVE: both feet firmly planted, distribute weight evenly, avoid standing with feet parallel

Appearance Can add or detract your message Clothes should be neat and not distracting IMPROVE: Wear clothes that fit the occasion; avoid t-shirts with printed messages and jewelry that is tempting to play with

Movement Shows energy and enthusiasm Use it as transitions Get closer to audience Keeps audience from getting bored Helps with nervous energy (relieves natural tension) IMPROVE: Avoid moving too much; make it natural; don’t plan it; movements should match up with words

Gestures Expressing emotions through movement of your limbs, body, or head Types: Emphatic – provides emphasis; Descriptive: describes IMPROVE: Let them develop naturally; avoid grasping the sides of the podium or holding your notes with both hands

Eye Contact Audiences like the feeling that you are talking to them Makes you more trustworthy You can see feedback from your audience IMPROVE: Know your material; rely less on notes; direct your eye contact to all parts of audience; practice in front of your friends and spread them apart

Facial Expressions Show interests and involvement Figures out moods and attitudes IMPROVE: Should be natural; videotape your speech/watch yourself

Paralinguistics Vocal clues such as volume, rate, or inflection that tell a receiver how to interpret spoken words This is nonverbal since the messages rely on HOW something is said rather than what is said IMPROVE: Practice!!!

Nonverbal Challenge: “Guesstures” Tournament Split into two teams: Frosh vs. Upperclassment Go over “Guesstures” Rules and Instructions *Everyone on your team must go ONCE, then you can pick members to complete the game. Winning Team receives 20 points; Losing Team receives 19 points (out of 20)