Demonstrative communication is defined as the process of sending and receiving messages and involves exchanging thoughts, messages, or information. This form of communication includes verbal and nonverbal, written or visual, sending and receiving of messages (Nayab, 2010)
Facial expressions are a form of demonstrative communication. Communicating includes different facial expressions, tone of voice, or body language to deliver the message. Positive facial expressions are recognized faster than negative facial expressions (Leppanan, Hietanan 2003). An example of a positive facial expression would be a smile. A frown could be viewed negatively. There are differing facial expressions that could be interpreted positively or negatively. For example, a grin could be viewed by an individual as positive or negative. Some grins can be interpreted as arrogant, which could be negative. The viewer or listener’s interpretation could be affected by the subject matter. Effective facial expressions used during a business presentation would depend on the subject matter. If the subject is based on a serious matter, the facial expression should be serious, no smiling but, no frowning. If the presentation happens to be something comical or funny, a smile and laugh would be effective throughout the delivery.
Body language is another form of demonstrative communication. Nonverbal communication is between 60 – 75% of the impact of a message. The power of body language can be used to become tremendously successful in any activity that involves interaction and communication with people (Hogan, 2011). Crossing one’s arms may be perceived as negative. Despite what we may intend to say with our words, our body language is the over-riding factor in how the message is received. Eye contact is a very effective form of body language and facial expression. Direct eye contact with the audience indicates confidence and knowledge in the subject matter. A facilitator that consistently looks to the floor or ceiling does not exude confidence in themselves or in the subject matter.
Tone of voice can affect the positive or negative delivery of a message. Pleasant and non-confrontational inflections in ones tone of voice can be perceived as a form of positive communication. Fast talking, yelling, or stumbling through sentences can be interpreted as nervousness or lack of confidence in their knowledge of the material being presented. Presentations are effective if the presenter studies and becomes familiar with what is being presented. Studying the material prior to the presentation provides the audience with confidence that the presenter has bought into what they are presenting.
Role playing is a great way to enhance ones communication abilities. This form of communication will assist both parties in recognizing the strengths and weaknesses within the process. Role playing should also be done with a third party that can provide constructive criticism to both parties. Negative inflections can be worked out prior to presenting to a group or audience.
Ineffective communication can lead to divorce, job loss and other difficulties in interpersonal relationships. Recognizing our communication weaknesses may proactively prevent a person from saying something that may negatively impact the result of the presentation. This recognition will also assist one in other gestures both positive and negative.
As the listener, body language can also be interpreted positively or negatively. The way a person listens, looks, moves, and reacts, is an indication to the presenter or deliverer of the message, whether or not that person is truly listening. The nonverbal behaviors of an individual can create a sense of interest, trust, and desire for relationship or their behaviors can create disinterest, distrust, and confusion.
In conclusion, there are many forms of body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions that can be effective in verbal and nonverbal communications. Subject matter of the issue being presented should be studied so the presenter has a clear understanding of how to present effectively with the appropriate communication tools and resources.
References
Hietanen, J. K. & Leppänen, J. M. (2003). Does facial expression affect attention orienting by gaze direction cues? Journal of Experimental Psychology: Human Perception and Performance, 29, 1228-1243. Retrieved on July 12, 2011 from http://www.springer.com/new+%26+forthcoming+titles+(default)/journal/426
Nayab, N. (2010, July 26), Different types of communication Retrieved on July 12, 2011 from http://www.brighthub.com/office/project-management/articles/79297.aspx
Hogan, Kevin Psy.D. (2011). Retrieved on July 12, 2011 from http://www.kevinhogan.com/bodylanguage1.htm