Introduction to Speech and Verbal Communications

Module 1 - Case INTRODUCTION TO SPEECH AND VERBAL COMMUNICATIONS
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As one practices speaking in public they get more confident, while relying on non verbal communication and feedback to enhance their speaking and listening skills. Organizing speeches to capture the audience attention, and speaking confidently improves communication and discussion especially when a subject is interesting. Having the best ideas does not necessarily translate to a good speech presentation if one cannot be persuasive, highlighting the need to integrate both entertaining and informative elements in the speech presentation. As such, this paper will highlight on my experience in public speaking as well as the benefits of organizing, practicing and understanding the audience and there relevance to public speaking.
My first experience of public speaking was in the elementary school as we were tasked with explaining science projects in front of other students and teacher. Even though, reading and dictation were also important elements to improve public speaking, standing in front of people was a different aspect as one may get nervous. Similarly in high school, public speaking was encouraged as a way to improve communication. Typically, presentations and theater performance before audiences were the most common avenues for public speaking in high school. In any avenue where there is public speaking then relaxation techniques including deep breathing as well visualization often reduce anxiety (Docan-Morgan, T., & Schmidt, 2012).
Despite my previous experiences I still suffered stage fright when in a more formal setting, but I have grown more confident over time. Even though, I still get stage fright I am less likely to mumble or talk inaudibly. Practicing is an important element to improve public speaking, but one may also need coaching. Proper preparation breeds confidence and a speaker is less likely to be anxious (Schwartz, 2014). I now love public speaking commensurate with growing confidence, but when I get nervous I tend to talk faster and tend to either stare or gaze at one location unnecessarily, and this makes me look unconnected to the audience. Nonetheless, I have learned that watching other people speak informs me about the need to have one’s unique speaking styl...