Body language, public speaking vital for the growth of individuals

‘Public speaking is a vital skill and it has remained as a trademark of successful personalities across the globe’, said the Assistant Training Manager of Vellore Institute of Technology, Dr Jala Jaya Prakash.

Speaking at the inaugural session of the two-day workshop on ‘Body Language-Public Skills’ organized by the Andhra Loyola Institute of Engineering and Technology (ALIET) here on Thursday, Jaya Prakash listed out the characteristics of effective public speaking and highlighted simple techniques to be followed while delivering a speech.

Pointing out the essential characteristics of an effective speaker, he said that a person should maintain eye contact with the audience, build up confidence, organize the speech, be humorous, take care of body language, use an easy language, make use of gestures, position yourself well and be audible.

Most of the students have stage fear which is nothing but a vague feeling. This could be quelled through practice, he added. The workshop focused on grooming, etiquette, behavior, interpersonal communications, personal image building, presentation skills, public speaking and effective body language.

It is a practical and skill development program, he said. Later the resource person asked the students to volunteer themselves and give a short speech on any topic. The girls were quick enough to respond but the boys were reluctant. The ALIET Assistant Director Rev Fr ML Thomas SJ, Principal O Mahesh and other faculty members were also present.