Talal Bazheer CMN1310 Feedback Assignment Part Two 22/10/202

Talal Bazheer CMN1310 Feedback Assignment Part Two 22/10/2021

This assignment involves reflecting on feedback received during a speech presentation, analyzing areas of strength and improvement, and setting goals for future performances. The focus includes evaluating body language, eye contact, vocal delivery, and overall confidence. The goal is to understand personal tendencies during public speaking, compare self-assessment with external feedback, and propose strategies for enhancing communication skills.

In this reflection, the primary feedback I received revolved around my volume, which was often perceived as too loud, and my body language, particularly eye contact with the audience. The importance of maintaining eye contact was emphasized, as it helps engage listeners and project confidence. Additionally, I received constructive criticism about vocal pauses, indicating I need to work on smoother transitions and reducing hesitation in my speech. Overall, the feedback aligned with my self-assessment, which recognized issues with body language and hand movements that I had not fully acknowledged before.

Watching the recorded presentation, I was surprised to see instances of movement and gestures that I had not consciously noted. This realization highlighted the discrepancies between my perceptions and actual delivery. The feedback confirmed that I need to improve my eye contact, as sustained gaze towards the audience can significantly enhance engagement. Despite my initial confidence when introducing the concept, I struggled with organizing and concluding my speech effectively. The lack of a well-defined closing impacted my overall confidence toward the end, though the presentation overall was successful.

My strengths included confidently introducing the topic and sharing known information about the causeway, which helped establish authority and credibility early in my speech. This segment demonstrated my ability to prepare and convey knowledge clearly. However, I acknowledged that my closing lacked clarity and structure, which is something I must improve. Better organization of my review and conclusion would help reinforce the main points and leave a lasting impression on the audience.

To address the identified weaknesses, particularly eye contact, I recognize that making direct gaze with the audience is challenging but essential. Many feedbacks urged me to look at the audience, yet doing so makes me nervous, leading to a tendency to avoid prolonged eye contact. I understand the importance of overcoming this fear through practice and gradual exposure. Building confidence in maintaining eye contact will help me appear more engaged and trustworthy. I plan to practice speeches in front of a mirror or record myself to become more comfortable with sustained gazes and minimize nervousness.

Setting clear goals was instrumental in my improvement. I prepared thoroughly and practiced multiple times, which allowed me to become familiar with my content and support my speech with appropriate words. These preparations boosted my confidence and helped me deliver content more fluently. However, as I continue to develop my skills, I realize there are additional areas to work on, especially maintaining eye contact and exuding confidence throughout the presentation. These aspects are crucial for becoming an effective public speaker.

Achieving initial goals provided valuable lessons, yet I understand that continual effort is necessary to elevate my presentation skills. Moving forward, my focus will be on enhancing non-verbal communication, especially eye contact, and reducing nervousness. I will also work on voice modulation and reducing vocal pauses to ensure smoother delivery. Developing these skills will contribute to a more professional and confident speaking style, essential for academic and future professional settings.

References

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• Knight, R. (2014). Public Speaking: Concepts and Skills for a Diverse Society. SAGE Publications.
• Gamble, T. K., & Gamble, M. (2012). Communication Works. McGraw-Hill Education.
• Beebe, S. A., & Beebe, S. J. (2017). Public Speaking: An Audience-Centered Approach. Pearson.
• McCroskey, J. C., & McCroskey, L. L. (2006). An Introduction to Communication. Pearson.
• Lucas, S. E. (2015). The Art of Public Speaking. McGraw-Hill Education.
• O'Hair, D., Stewart, R., & Rubenstein, H. (2015). A Speaker's Guidebook. Bedford/St. Martin's.
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