Page 55 - DENG401_Advance Communication Skills

Advanced Communication Skills

Notes 8. Scope for further interaction.
9. Grading of the speaker on various parameters such as, delivery, ideas, use of visual aids,
handling the group, empathy, listening, etc.

10. Suggestions, if any.
2.4.7 Rehearse the Presentation

Making presentations is not simple. It is extremely important for us to realize the sanctity of
rehearsing to improve the quality of the presentation. Unless and until the presentation has
been rehearsed adequately, the speaker should not venture forth to make a presentation. The
more you rehearse, the better is your performance in front of an audience. In the initial phases,
rehearsal is important to do away with the element of fear. In the later stages, it helps in
brushing up the style of presenting and reveals your self-confidence. If this art is perfected, it can
lead to acclaim and recognition, if not, it will reveal the speaker in a poor light. So it is required
that one works hard for positive results.

2.4.8 Consider Personal Aspects: Physical and Body Language

The audiences first see the speaker, and then listen to the presentation. A presentable, clean and
impressive appearance is of utmost importance for the speaker. Formal clothes, proper hairstyle
and a good dress sense make the overall appearance of the speaker acceptable.
Confident voice and posture, effective eye contact and meaningful gestures make up a good
body language, which also plays a vital role in the presentation.

Body support is one of the silent modes of communication which needs to be polished and
perfected so that it enhances the overall effect of the presentation. Some of the negative
repercussions of body language are:

1. Nervous pacing,
2. Excessive movement/rubbing of the hands,
3. Covering the mouth while speaking,

4. Using a pen or pencil as pointers,
5. Lack of eye contact,
6. Fidgeting, etc.

2.4.9 Overcoming Nervousness

Even an experienced speaker, in the beginning of his speaking career, must have faced the
problem of nervousness. “Butterflies in the stomach”, “increased heartbeat”, “shaking legs”,
“shaking voice”, and “forgetfulness” are the most obvious signs of nervousness. The speaker
can overcome nervousness by:
1. Taking few deep breaths in and out.
2. Making himself/herself comfortable with the audience.
3. Boosting his own self-confidence.

4. Proper practice before the final presentation.
5. Giving proper pauses for relaxation.

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