Avoid a Shark Attack – Try Not to Resemble a Seal!
When going into the ocean or into a business meeting, many things can go wrong. Sharks can be the changing business climates, creative investment strategies, communication opportunities, or problem-solving strategies. You might ask yourself, “Why do we keep swimming in spite of calculated risks that we can’t always navigate?”
My plan to avoid a shark attack is not to resemble the seal! Understand your strengths and weaknesses. Be informed. Learn the difference between communicating and speaking in public. Just as sharks maximize water safety, SpeechSharks maximize stage safety. Become an educated communicator, focus on your goals, and swim confidently toward your prize!
Communication is defined as a process in which ideas or information are transmitted, shared, or exchanged. In other words, you can communicate through various methods that are verbal and non-verbal: writing, speaking, art, music, movement, food, clothing, e-mails, videos, gifts, and the list goes on. More information about verbal and non-verbal communication can be found in Chapter Two of our book, SpeechShark; a Public Speaking Guide, published by Kendall Hunt (https://he.kendallhunt.com/product/speech-shark).
Public Speaking is a communication process in which speakers and listeners participate together. Public Speaking operates with the intention that speaking will be done in a public setting and with an audience. This type of speaking integrates theory and practice. While theory is important, speaking situations demand that content should be adapted to the speaking situation and to the audience for which the speech is intended. The speaker will share content, which can be received (or not) by the listener. In turn, the listener communicates to the speaker through verbal or non-verbal cues to indicate understanding or the lack thereof. In other words, communication is a transactional process.
What can you do to help improve your communication skills? Try using the SpeechShark app to help create your speeches and if you need more help, take a look at the SpeechShark book which was written as a companion book for the App.
