Generally those gestures that appear natural and relaxed are more likely to send a message of self-confidence and less likely to detract from the speaker's message than those that are extreme. The authors suggests that rubbing or clenching hands may signify tension or anxiety and should be avoided during a presentation. Visual aids are another form of nonverbal communication that can be used to enhance a message, express an additional sentiment or clarify a confusing message. Visual aids when designed tastefully and meaningfully can greatly enhance a presentation. It is also important to note however that visual aids can also detract from a presentation if they are utilized too often or are not used in a manner that adds to the presentation or amplifies the message the speaker is attempting to deliver. The use of a couple of well developed and thought out aids can greatly enhance a presentation if they are utilized effectively however.

Conclusions

This article brings about several critical elements of nonverbal communication. The authors are correct in assuming that eye contact is the most important element of nonverbal communication. Without eye contact that is directed, most audience members tend to drift off at one point or another during the course of a presentation. Visual aides can also be a critical enhancement, and may serve to break up a presentation and re focus or direct an audience. The authors make a good point of expressing the importance of using natural vs. forced or extreme gestures that might actually detract from rather than add to the overall quality of a presentation.

One thing that many presenters often overlook is personal grooming...

Though the authors of the article make an important point to highlight the importance of eye contact as the most important aspect of non-verbal communication, I feel it is most important to remember how one's grooming may impact the audience. The authors suggest that there are certain ways a presenter can dress to send a particular message. For example, a serious message is more likely to be construed as serious if the presenter dresses in dark and non-vibrant colors.
Likewise subtle aspects of one's appearance including hair style, accessories and jewelry may enhance or detract from a speaker. It is critical that a presenter not 'assault' the audience with too many accessories and appearance faux paus, or they might accidentally distract the audience during the course of the presentation and fail at delivering the message they initially intended to portray.

There are many elements of an effective presentation, nonverbal communication is simply one important aspect of a presenter's ability to deliver a powerful message to an audience. As the article suggests nonverbal communication should always however be considered as a critical component of a successful presentation.

Some important nonverbal aspects of communication to remember and consider for all presentations include eye contact, posture, gestures and grooming. Of these perhaps the two most critical include eye contact and use of visual enhancements. The presenter that prepares ahead of time is also as the article suggests more likely to impress the audience not simply with their comfort level and natural speaking technique but with the ease of delivery that results from adequate preparation.