Participating in a Public Speaking Convention
I recently participated in a public speaking convention that was held on our University's premises. I addressed my fellow students on the topic of the adverse effects of drugs and substance abuse. My goal was to inform my target audience on the prevalent nature of the drug abuse pandemic and the need to unite against the vice. Being an introvert, the wild reception I received after I was done presenting made the experience breath-taking. I was astonished by the impact of my speech since some students were emotionally overwhelmed shedding a tear or two. Initially, as I was approaching the podium, I was nervous. The responsive nature of my target audience, however, helped me to calm down and regain my composure. The experience was also inspiring and humbling because during the question and answer session some students decide to come out of their shells and narrate their addiction stories. In the end, we all agreed that drug and substance abuse is a menace to society and we all need to join forces in one accord and combat the predicament.
Theories and Effects
The theories that were evident during the discussion were the transactional nature of communication and social needs theory. The transactional nature of communication as suggested by Gergen dictates that people tend to communicate with others, not to others (Adler et al. 32). The approach also denotes that each communication situation is unique in itself. On the other hand, the social needs theory states that as human beings, we contain a diverse range of social needs that we end up satisfying through communicating with others. These basic social needs include; affection, inclusion, and control (Adler et al. 34). The transactional approach brought about the following effects; first, the target audience became educated about the adverse effects of overindulgence in drugs and the ways through which they may curb addiction. Secondly, my self-esteem skyrocketed because of the warm reception I received from the crowd. I realized that I could be a motivational speaker in the future if I perfect my communication skills.
Effects of Social Needs Theory
The effects of the social needs theory include; first, I realized that I could control/influence others meaning that I can become a good leader. If my communication skills are appropriately harnessed, I can change the lives of many through public speaking. Secondly, I realized the need for being social and inclusive. As human beings, we can learn a lot from each other in the event we begin opening up and sharing our life experiences. Thirdly, through the presentation, I was able to give and receive love from the audience. They continually kept me going through clapping and asking questions afterward. This showed me that not only agreed with my sentiments, but they also held me in high regard.
Memorable Experience
The principal issues that made this memorable experience include; first a welcoming target audience. As soon as I was on stage, I felt at home. The welcoming nature of the listeners helped me think on my feet and convey my message with accurate precision. The audience exhibited a receptive body posture and the questions they asked after the speech made me realize that they were all ears. The listeners also seemed to be well-versed with the subject hence making it easier to communicate with them. Ideally, I blended with the crowd because I was of the same age group as them thus I understood the challenges they face in their day to day lives. At the end of the discussion, my primary objective of educating the crowd was achieved.
Preparation and Delivery
Secondly, I, the speaker, made the experience second to none. First, I came thoroughly prepared for the talk. I had conducted extensive research on the subject, and this made it easy for me to pass on my message. During the address, I exhibited top-notch persuasive skills showing the audience how crucial the issue at hand was. While communicating, I employed the use of non-verbal cues such as body movements and facial expressions to capture and maintain the attention of the audience. I also kept eye contact while conversing. A persuasive tone is another tool that I used to make the crowd fathom the critical nature of the subject matter.
Significance of Preparation
Thirdly, the material I prepared for the public address also made the experience worthy. My extensive research involved perusing through current articles on substance abuse, reading books and journals as I gathered any evidence that I deemed necessary for the analysis. Being well prepared ensured that facts obtained from credible sources supported all my statements. I was also able to answer any questions that were tabled before me easily. I provided my consumers with long-term sustainable solutions curb the prevalence of drug and substance abuse. I reiterated on the significance of the young abstaining from drug use. If all parties come aboard, i.e. the public, parents and students the vice can easily be contained. Parents need to play their oversight role and monitor any unusual habits among their children. Prevention is better than cure.
Works Cited
Adler, Ronald B, et al. Look: Looking Out, Looking in. 2018.
