IS ANYONE OUT THERE LISTENING?
Although the importance of clear speech, has long been recognised, it is only in the last decade that listening competence has been linked to being successful in the Game of Life.
The average listener ignores, forgets, or misunderstands 75% of what he or she hears.
If this applies to our average communications, how does this impact on our audiences?
I have for decades facilitated a programme that combines assertiveness and listening skills to solve problems, resolve conflict and build relationships.
Recently there has been increased demand for in-depth listening skills programmes.
When audiences listen they usually use 3 of the senses - Visual, Auditory, and Kinesthetic. Most people will use one sense more than the others. Presentations need certain elements to satisfy all 3 senses. For the purpose of this article I want to concentrate on what speakers can do to achieve maximum impact and influence by accommodating those who communicate and absorb information predominantly using their auditory sense.
1. Cultivate a varied and well modulated voice
2. Provide statistics and facts
3. Give detailed descriptions
4. Tell stories, use vivid language, and power verbs
5. Talk out loud, let them hear your enthusiasm, use emotional intensity
6. Create a clear structure with each point neatly parceled
7. Make it easy for the audience to follow your talk. Use signposts that you are moving to the next point, that you are about to wrap up.
As a presenter you take full responsibility for every member of the audience listening to and remembering your talk. Remember, you do not present to convince or inform yourself: you entire focus is on the poor souls who have to sit and listen.
Marlene Ward. President Johannesburg Chapter
