How do you balance the use of visuals and aids with your verbal and non-verbal communication skills?

2 Adapt to the context and audience

The second step to balance your visuals and aids with your verbal and non-verbal communication skills is to adapt to the context and audience of your group presentation. Consider the purpose, format, and duration of your presentation, and adjust your visuals and aids accordingly. For example, if you are presenting online, you may need to use more visuals and aids to maintain your audience's attention and interaction. If you are presenting in person, you may need to use fewer visuals and aids to avoid blocking your audience's view or creating clutter. Also, consider the background, expectations, and needs of your audience, and tailor your visuals and aids to suit their level of knowledge, interest, and curiosity.

3 Use visuals and aids strategically

The third step to balance your visuals and aids with your verbal and non-verbal communication skills is to use your visuals and aids strategically. Don't rely on your visuals and aids to do the talking for you, or to fill in the gaps in your content or delivery. Use your visuals and aids to reinforce, clarify, or emphasize your key points, not to repeat or contradict them. Use your verbal and non-verbal communication skills to introduce, explain, or link your visuals and aids to your main message. For example, you can use a catchy title, a rhetorical question, or a gesture to draw your audience's attention to a slide, chart, video, or prop. You can also use a pause, a summary, or a transition to move on from a visual or aid to the next part of your presentation.

5 Monitor your tone and pace

The fifth step to balance your visuals and aids with your verbal and non-verbal communication skills is to monitor your tone and pace. Tone and pace are essential elements for conveying emotions, attitudes, and intentions. To ensure you’re using them correctly, use a clear, confident, and respectful tone that isn’t too fast, too slow, or too erratic. Additionally, make sure your tone and pace are synchronized with your visuals and aids. Avoid using a monotone voice for a colorful slide or a frantic pace for a calm video. Also, don’t use a different tone or pace for each visual or aid.

6 Solicit and respond to feedback

The sixth and final step to balance your visuals and aids with your verbal and non-verbal communication skills is to solicit and respond to feedback. Feedback can be a great resource for evaluation and improvement. If you don't handle feedback properly, you are likely to miss the opportunity to learn, grow, and make a good impression. When soliciting and responding to feedback, it’s important to ask open-ended, specific, and relevant questions that invite comments, opinions, or suggestions. Additionally, it’s vital to respond with gratitude, curiosity, and professionalism. Lastly, incorporate the feedback into future presentations by reflecting on it and making necessary changes.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?