Nonverbal Communication 93% of our communication is nonverbal

Nonverbal Communication Definition: Communication sent by means other than words, which may carry meanings by themselves or in connection with a verbal message “You cannot not communicate.” What does this mean? Is it possible? Do you agree or disagree?

Appearance Why is appearance important? You look good, you feel good – adds to your self- confidence Do we make judgments based on others appearance? Why? Assume that others also do this to you School uniforms? Does this eliminate the judging?

Facial Expressions and Eye Contact You can tell very quickly how a person is feeling based on their facial expressions 6 most commonly recognized facial expressions: Happy, sad, scared, surprised, disappointed, angry Most people believe that the eyes are the most expressive part of the body We can hide many things, but our eyes show feelings that might be hidden otherwise Goal is to look at your audience 95% of the time Shows you are trustworthy and sincere You can get audience feedback Eye contact is more than glancing up and it is NOT looking over the heads of your audience!!!

Posture Good posture conveys confidence Should be somewhere in between slouching/leaning and being rigid/stiff Must stand up!! Walk with a purpose – show that you know what you are doing and that you have prepared Walk (not pace) casually to each side of the audience so that you are reaching everyone

Gestures Gestures can add power to your words and help you to look interested and engaged They should be natural and unplanned, although it is okay to plan a few if you are concerned Don’ts: don’t grip the podium, don’t grip your notecards, don’t stuff hands in pockets

Activity Find a partner Create a skit based on the prompt I give you Act these out and have the audience guess what is going on