Your perceptions shape the way you interpret or decode a speaker’s message. Then you form a reaction, whether it is verbal or nonverbal in nature. Whether you cheer words of encouragement, agreeing with the speaker, or whether you cross your arms and shake your head in disagreement, you are sending a message back to the speaker. Receiving a reaction out of the audience, whether it is boredom, humor, or anger, allows the speaker to do a perception check. The speaker’s perception of the audience’s reaction affects the speaker’s reaction and the delivery of the rest of the speech.
Today we will talk about the importance of perception in public speaking. We will show you what is perception, what shapes our perceptions, how perception is always involved in the communication process, differences in perception, and the importance of considering (1) the context of your speech, (2) who your audience is, and (3) your purpose in speaking.
Understanding these principles is the key to mastering the art of perception. We can show you how to give a great speech and fulfill your purpose, despite an audience that may already be predisposed to disagree with you.
I will introduce to you these fundamental aspects of perception. Then we will teach drive these principles into you by teaching you through example. Persons A and B will follow by showing you the significance of considering the context of your speech by providing you each with an example. Both of their speeches will revolve around the issue of gun control, a currently heated topic in American politics. They will each present opposing viewpoints on the issue. Person A will play the role of a mother who lost her child to gun violence and strongly supports a ban on guns.