While I was working in one of the Disaster Relief Centers following Hurricane Katrina, a young woman approached me in the hallway. She faced me squarely and asked me a question. I know she asked me a question because she paused and looked at me expectantly. I had no idea what she said so I smiled and asked her to repeat it. She did and I tried really hard to listen and read her lips. Her lips barely moved, her voice was a low monotone. Her eye contact was great! She expected an answer. That was clear. I had no clue what the young woman wanted and my eyes were searching for some help. She was getting a little impatient with me and shortened her message. She caught a clump of hair in her hands as she continued to listen for an answer. Body language! Finally, I had a clue. I sent her to the room where personal care products were available. She seemed satisfied.
There could be many different reasons the woman did not speak more distinctly. She had apparently been through a lot to be here in a strange city with thousands of other people in a huge building. Under ordinary circumstances, if I were coaching her, I would begin by recommending
1. Some exercises to improve her articulation–exercises that would have her opening her mouth wider, exaggerating her lip, tongue, and jaw movements.
2. I would ask her to speak louder and enunciate her words more carefully.
3. I would also give her positive feedback on her use of nonverbal language.
And, I would probably give her a copy of my book 101 Ways to Improve Your Communication Skills Instantly.
