Mr. Staley’s presentation was in three parts: (A) the lecture portion; (B) the laboratory portion; (C) the question and answer portion.

A. The Lecture Portion

According to Mr. Staley there are some 15 competencies for persuasive presentation. Three of these competencies were selected for Friday’s program talk. They are (1.) body language; (2) vocal variety; and (3) speaking in the moment.

1. Body Language

Body language involves non-verbal communication. It includes (a) the way in which the feet are positioned, (b) gestures, (c) eye contact, and (d) facial expression. This body language starts with the manner in which the speaker approaches the podium. The audience’s interest is aroused by a confident smile, an assured walk and animated gestures.

(a) the positioning of the feet.

The feet should be firmly planted. Walking around can be effective, but if done in excess can distract from the content of the speech.

(b) gestures

Gestures should be natural and look comfortable. They should not be repetitious. Also they should be visible to all members of the audience.

(c) eye contact

Eye contact with audience members increases persuasiveness. However, if it feels uncomfortable, the speaker may try looking towards the audience member’s nose, the brows, or slightly above the head.

(d) facial expression

A smile is usually advantageous, but the facial expression must be appropriate to the subject (e.g., not in contrast to content consisting of bad, outrageous, sorrowful, or alarming news).

2. Vocal Variety

Vocal variety includes (a) pace, (b) pitch, (c) volume (loudness), and (d) emphasis.

(a) pace

Pace relates to how quickly or slowly we speak.

(b) pitch

Pitch relates to how high or low we speak (in terms of vocal range, octave level, etc.).

(c) volume

Volume relates to how loudly or softly we speak.

(d) emphasis

Emphasis relates to a marked departure from the speaker’s normal pace, pitch, or volume, in order to highlight a portion of the content (e.g., speaking more slowly and quietly).

3. Speaking in the moment

Speaking in the moment includes (a) blocking out distractions (internal or external), (b) focusing on audience impact, (c) personal connection to material, (d) preparation, (e) maintaining audience focus.

(a) Blocking out distractions requires that the speaker be relaxed.

(b) Focusing on audience impact requires simplicity of language (the more the better). There should also be authenticity and sincerity.

(c) Personalizing the material means picking material that the audience can connect to emotionally.

(d) Preparation has to do with both content and delivery style.

(e) In order to maintain audience focus, one should also be direct and to the point.

B. The Laboratory Portion (Working With Audience Members)

John Staley then worked with volunteers to illustrate his points. The volunteers were to come up and tell the audience about some event in which the volunteer’s pride was aroused by the action of a loved one.

1. Bob Harbicht related an event in which his sixth grade grandson performed well at flag football. 2. Ernest Aragon told us how his son built the Getty Museum and finished early. 3. Matt Weaver discussed a loved one’s mission work in Thailand. 4. Esma Ali pointed to her daughter’s helping at a homeless shelter in Pasadena.

Mr. Staley evaluated the effectiveness of each volunteer’s delivery. He then had the volunteer adopt his suggestions and repeat the story. Generally, on the second time the delivery showed some improvement although in some cases the content seemed to change.

C. The Question and Answer Portion

1. Q. How does one slow one’s self down? A. Use your internal motor.

2. Q. How do you integrate electronic techniques? A. These can be used for emphasis, but you must focus on the audience receiving the message.

3. Q. How about the use of power point slides? A. You must stay connected with the audience and avoid “death by power point.”

4. Q. Aren’t there different speaking styles (e.g., over-statement vs. under-statement)? A. Be true to yourself, whatever your personality type.

5. Q. I have a problem understanding speakers whose voice drops too low in mid-sentence. A. Keep the volume up; don’t trail off or the audience may miss the point.