Networking and 60 Second Commercials--Non-verbal Communications

Step Five

We’ve been talking about the components to make better 60 second commercials. This week I want to talk about the final component—the non-verbal skills used in your commercial.

Did you know that only 7% of communications is accomplished by words? The way you use words is 38% and the remaining 55% is done by visual and non-verbal communications. Let’s look at this non-verbal ways of communicating with others.

Smile

It starts with a smile. Everyone responds to a smile. A smile encourages other to open up to you--makes you more likeable. A non-smile encourages others to move away from you. Smile with your eyes. Research has shown that people find smiles to be most genuine when your eyes scrunch up a bit.

Eye Contact

Making good eye contact with another person shows respect and good manners. The eyes have been called the window of the soul. Make frequent eye contact with a variety of people in the group. Never talk to a group, always individuals in the group. If you need practice do it with stuff animals around your kitchen table!

Dress

The rule of thumb is to dress one or two steps about your prospects. You want people to feel you would be the type of professional they would like to do business with. Some people adopt a signature look by getting noticed and being memorable with a fashion flare. A signature look can be a color, an accessory, a style (for example, 1950s glam), or a special haircut.

Shaking Hands and Posture

How you shake someone’s had tells a lot about you. The hand cannot conceal messages like people’s words. Good posture, standing tall reflects confidence.

Your Voice

Your voice is a powerful tool in getting attention and recognition. Speak loudly, clearly, and at a natural speed (not too slow or you'll be dull and not too fast or people will think you're nervous).

Vary the speed of your commercial - meaning you have parts of your presentation that are faster and other parts slower. Why? Because this is how you stress importance. A varied tone of voice and volume are very important if you want to keep your prospect’s attention and have them understand what you say. It’s what gives your prospect a clue about what is important and what is very important.

Creating Emphasis

Use set-up words that prepare people for what you’re about to emphasize. Like “If you learn nothing else out of tonight’s presentation…” or the “the only reason…” “Because …”. These are great set up words to strength parts of your commercial.

Take a side. Rather than worrying about offending people and choosing a middle of the road position, take a stance. People will respect you for it and it will show your conviction and courage.

Conclusion

Why are these items important? Commercials are communications. We communicate to others most directly with our non-verbal communications. We buy from people we know and like. Improving your non-verbal communication skills can add to your bottom line and it will not cost you one dine to make the changes.

Your comments are welcomed...