Managing External Relations - Disaster Management Center ...

Presentation Skills
Chapter 4
We are communicating constantly with our eyes, face, bodies and attitudes. When you communicate
with someone, it is not just the words you choose that make the message. You are also sending
signals about the kind of person you are and your commitment to your message, among other
things. It is crucial that you synchronise the words you are speaking with the rest of you. Some
research indicates that an audience’s interpretation of a speaker’s message may be determined as
much as 55% by the speaker’s non-verbal communication, 38% by the speaker’s vocal quality, and
only 7% by the actual words (Ailes, 1989).
Good communication starts with good conversation. Conversation is a give and take affair.
If you are able to converse well, you should be able to transfer those skills to a public presentation,
TV or other media.
What are some characteristics of a good conversationalist?
Your answer might include: Tends to be other-oriented rather than self-centred; does not dominate
the conversation; does not dwell on complaints; draws others out on topics they want to discuss; is
sympathetic to problems; smiles and laughs easily; has interesting things to say; avoids trite expressions;
is lively and enthusiastic; gets to the point quickly and does not belabour points; understands
the give and take of conversations—does not encourage monologues; asks open ended questions
rather than those requiring one word answers; asks how others feel about a subject rather than
pontificating; is open, candid, direct and friendly.
Of course, the above list of characteristics is idealised. It is not usually necessary to make dramatic
changes in yourself and/or to meet all of these criteria. You can improve your communication skills by
simply being who you are, learning to overcome unproductive communication habits, and learning to
be aware of the reactions of your listener or audience.
Ten common problems in personal and business communications
1. The speaker does not build up an initial rapport with listeners.
2. The speaker appears stiff, uncomfortable or tense.
3. The materials are presented in a factual manner without emotional appeal.
4. The speaker fails to make eye contact with listeners or use expressive facial movements.
5. There is no humour or ice breakers.
6. The speaker is not prepared; the direction and intention of the discussion are not clear.
7. The speaker rambles on and does not use pauses and silence for impact.
8. The presentation lacks energy, evidenced by inappropriate pitch, speed and volume.
9. The language used is boring or the materials or subject matter are not interesting.
10. The speaker does not take time to listen carefully, or give others the opportunities to speak.
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