Communication Shifts for Effective Speaking: Personal Reflection and Practical Tips

Speaking in public or sharing your thoughts can be a daunting task. Whether you are a seasoned speaker or a novice, the right communication shift can make all the difference. In this article, I will share my personal experience and offer practical advice on how a change in perspective can lead to becoming a more effective speaker.

My Encounter at the Local University

One day, I stood before a gathering of students at a local university to share my poetry. To my surprise, people laughed, and I felt relieved rather than nervous. I was not confident, but nor was I anxious, just okay. I read my poem aloud, sharing my feelings about a cherished memory from my past.

Despair

Despair
Silent tears touch my cheek
I see him tall and muscular, wearing beige khakis
A baseball cap fits snug around his head
He waves hello from the distance
So far away yet so near
Talk to me, what's on your mind
I haven't seen you for a while
Wait, why do you leave so quickly
Come back, please come back where are you going
When you come again
He disappears into the sunset
Leaving me alone in my despair
Hurting as loud as though I sense he'll never come again
The taste of salt moistens my pouting lips, I hear myself sobbing
And then I awake
Disappointment overwhelms me
For he wasn't really alive
Only in my dream
I'll see you again someday, my son
In heaven where God keeps his angels
Jason my son was struck down in a freak vehicle accident, ending his young life at only 23 years old on May 1st, 1997, the month and day Lady Di passed away. Many young adults came from the United States to Canada for his funeral. Some shook my hand, stating Jason was an awesome person. I answered, yes, indeed he was—Thank you.

The Importance of Communication Shifts

My experience at the university led me to reflect on the way I deliver my message. If your current method of delivery is inadequate, it might be time to try a new approach. Whether this will make you a better speaker or not, only you can determine through trial and error. Explore different techniques and see what works for you.

Personal Growth Through Perspective

Personal growth often comes from a shift in perspective. A fresh viewpoint can help uncover hidden truths and reveal unseen aspects of our communication. A moment of clarity—often described as a eureka or 'ah ha!' moment—can lead to a paradigm shift, transforming the way we perceive and present our ideas. By embracing these shifts, we can become more effective speakers.

Practical Tips for Communication Shifts

Here are a few practical tips to help you achieve effective communication:

Practice empathy: Understand your audience's emotions and connect with them on a personal level. Use storytelling: Share personal anecdotes and relatable stories to make your message more engaging. Change your tone: Alter your vocal tone to convey different emotions and maintain audience engagement. Be concise: Ensure that your message is clear and to the point, avoiding unnecessary jargon.

Conclusion

Improving as a speaker is a continuous process. Embrace the concept of communication shifts, and be open to exploring new methods. Through trial and error, you can refine your approach and become a more effective communicator. Remember, my experience at the university taught me that even in the face of adversity, sharing your story can make a profound impact.

References

Jason's story and reflections are personal experiences. For more information on effective speaking, consider reading literature on public speaking and communication skills.