ORAL COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Nonverbal Communication
Nonverbal communication plays a huge role in how we interact with
others. Some estimates suggest that over 50% of our communication is
nonverbal! This includes facial expressions, gestures, eye contact,
posture, touching behaviors and how physically close we stand to others
in conversations.
Our faces convey a lot about our emotions. A simple smile or furrowed
brow can drastically change the meaning and tone of what we say. As
humans, we have evolved to pick up on even the most subtle of facial
cues. Have you ever noticed that when talking with someone, your eyes
will naturally follow their mouth moving as they speak? We are wired to
watch faces for clues.
Beyond facial expressions, our hands move quite expressively when we
converse. Whether it's a pointing gesture to emphasize a point, holding up
fingers to indicate a number, or waving hello. Gestures help bring our
messages to life, almost like a physical accompaniment to our words.
Cultural differences do exist though - what's considered an acceptable
gesture in one place, may have a completely different or even offensive
meaning elsewhere.
Proxemics, or physical space between communicators, is also significant.
In most Western cultures, standing closer than about arm's length apart
would feel intrusive. Whereas some Latin American or Mediterranean
cultures use much closer interpersonal distances when talking. Factors like
gender, familiarity and context all influence our comfort levels with how
close others get physically. Violating someone's "personal space" without
permission can negatively impact communication.
Eye contact is a whole field of nonverbal study itself. The amount of eye
contact varies depending on culture and situation, but generally holding
steady eye contact for part of a conversation and then varying gaze
shows engagement and openness. Staring without blinking can come
across as aggressive or intense. But avoiding eye contact may give an
impression of shifty, dishonest behavior.
Touching also carries meaning and needs consideration between gender,
affection level and context. A friendly pat on the back differs vastly from
an unwanted caress. Leaders often use touching behaviors strategically to
build trust and rapport when appropriate. But going beyond accepted
social norms for touch risks making others uncomfortable and damaging
communication.
Overall, being aware of nonverbal cues we give and receive can
dramatically improve our interpersonal interactions. Careful consideration
of things like proximity, eye behaviors and thoughtful gestures can help
reinforce our message or put others at ease. But sometimes the absence
of certain nonverbals is equally, if not more meaningful.
Barriers to Effective Listening
Really focusing on what another person is saying is harder than it seems.
Our minds are naturally distracted and we can easily get preoccupied with
our own inner thoughts. However, developing strong listening skills is so
important for building relationships and resolving conflicts smoothly. Some
common barriers to effective listening include:
Preparing a response instead of focusing on understanding can sabotage
active listening. Our instinct may be to immediately think of what we want
to say next rather than prioritizing comprehending the other viewpoint.
But responding without understanding runs risk of further disconnect.
Distractions in our environment or our own fidgeting behaviors interfere
with concentration on the speaker's words. Things like an ongoing side
conversation, loud noises or simply drumming fingers can fragment
attention. Minimizing external distractions and internal fidgets helps focus
listening ears.
Personal biases or assumptions negatively shape how we receive
information that counters our preconceived ideas. Even subconsciously
dismissing opinions that don't align with previous beliefs prevents truly
hearing another perspective. Suspending judgement and recognizing
others can see things differently improves open-minded listening.
Lack of eye contact conveys you're not fully engaging or you have
something to hide. Occasional eye contact demonstrates active
involvement while too much staring can intimidate. Varying eye contact
with the speaker and surroundings shows attentive listening.
Daydreaming or mind wandering causes a listener to drift mentally away
from the present exchange. Checking out mentally for portions of a
discussion means missing important pieces of the dialogue. Actively
concentrating efforts on what the other shares maximizes understanding.
Addressing barriers like preparation for response instead of
understanding, distractions, biases and daydreaming helps strengthen
truly listening with an open and attentive ear.
Speaking Styles
Effective speakers have a good understanding of their audience and
adjust delivery accordingly. Skilled public speakers recognize different
situations may call for varying speech styles. Some common speaking
styles include:
Informal style is conversational in nature with a relaxed, welcoming tone.
It mimics everyday discussion and feels natural, building comfort. Informal
is best suited to casual settings among peers or with a familiar crowd.
