Topic > What is demonstrative communication? - 685

Demonstrative communication describes non-verbal and non-written communication. This communication can be conveyed through facial expressions, tone of voice and body language. How the message is received can vary greatly depending on these factors. As cited in Lavan (2009) “about 55% of interpersonal messages are transmitted nonverbally”. A positive experience is one in which all parties feel comfortable. When people feel comfortable they are more receptive to the message. A speech about a charity will get more support if the audience feels good about the speaker. A presenter who is neatly dressed and speaks in a friendly, cheerful voice is very attractive. By walking on stage the listener follows the speaker. Additionally, maintaining eye contact keeps your audience interested. A negative experience would be that of a speaker who is unsure of the speech. If the speaker feels uncomfortable, this is often projected onto the audience. They also become uncomfortable. A person standing behind a dais looking at their notes while speaking is monotonous and the message is lost. Nonverbal communication can greatly influence how you are perceived in the workplace. In an interview context these cues can have a positive or negative effect. A person who walks into a room with a firm handshake and eye contact is more likely to be considered than someone who simply grabs a hand and doesn't look at the person while speaking. Sitting up straight and leaning into the person who is speaking is a positive sign that the listener is paying attention. Not making eye contact when answering questions could be considered unassertive. This could lead to it being overlooked in favor of someone looking at the speaker while answering a question. Humans res...... middle of paper ......stener use their hands to indicate that they want the person to hurry up and say what they have to say. This lets the speaker know that he wants to get it over with so he can respond on his own and end the conversation. This can be devastating to a person who has worked hard to plan their message. Tone of voice, facial expressions and body language can sometimes say more than words. A frown can end a conversation without saying a word. A smile and nod can encourage the person to process and continue. Awareness of body language and its impact is an advantage on a professional level. Being engaged and open is appealing, and knowing when to be serious is also an attribute many companies look for. Works Cited Quintanilla, K., & Wahl, S. (2014). Business and professional communication: Keys to workplace excellence (2nd ed.). Los Angeles, CA: Sage.