Communication tactics: definition and classification

Communication strategy is realized in speech tactics, which are seen as speech techniques needed to achieve aims set in a specific situation.

Let?s have a look at typical speech tactics, which are frequently used by speakers in their speeches in public, as well as lawyers, businessmen etc:

1. Generalization. It is used to demonstrate unfavorable information and to form public opinion on the subject. Typical expressions used are the following: ?It?s always the same?, ?We meet it everywhere?, and ?It was repeated many times?.

2. Giving an example. It?s a demonstration of the fact that common opinion is based on several specific facts (experience). Typical expressions used are the following: ?Here is an example?, ?For example, last week??, ?Take Mr N. He??.

3. Strengthening. It?s attracting public?s attention to the subject, and improvement of structural organization of unfavorable information. Typical expressions used are: ?It?s awful that ??, ?It?s a shame, that ??.

4. Concession. Generalization even in case of giving contradictory examples; a demonstration of real or imaginary tolerance and sympathy. Typical expressions used are: ?You shouldn?t generalize, but??, ?There are rather interesting sites among similar sites??.

5. Shift. It?s a strategy of positive presentation. Typical expressions used here are: ?It?s all the same to me, but other students are indignant?.

6. Contrast. It?s attracting attention to dialogue participants, finding positive and negative characteristics of people, their actions in a situation, where there is a conflict of interests. Typical expressions are the following: ?We have to? and they??, ?We created this, and they??.

7. Surprise. It is the use of a sudden or unknown to student information in speech.

8. Provocation. A reaction of disagreement to the information given is provoked to use this period of time to prepare students for making constructive conclusions and finding their own position.

9. Appeal to the authority. A reference to some competent participants of the discussion ? famous scientists, public leaders etc, to confirm the information provided to students.

10. Forecasting. It?s forecasting of events? development, based on real facts to define value orientation, defining interests, requirements and wishes.

11. Introduction of informal elements. It?s a story told to the public about one?s own errors, prejudices, mistakes and their consequences. This technique is used to show the way to avoid one-sided approach to a problem and find a new decision.

12. Direct speech. It?s a refusal from a lengthy introduction, especially if partners already know the subject and have a certain amount of knowledge.

13. Humor. It?s giving funny paradoxical examples, use of funny jokes and stories, including stories from your life.

14. Yes-yes-yes. The partner is asked three or four questions, which he is to answer saying: ?Yes?. Then, most probably, the main question should also have a positive answer.

15. Black opponent. This tactics is opposite to the previous one. The partner is asked several questions one of which he could not answer. Then a speech formula ?You see, this question is not prepared? is said. However, there should be not more than three questions, and they should be sufficiently difficult or even couldn't be solved, you shouldn't allow your partner developing his answer. The speech pattern is pronounced at the first moment you can?t answer the question.

16. A compliment as an argument. A weak reason, which could be easily opposed, is accompanied by a compliment to a communication partner. For example: ?You are too smart to deny??, ?A man who is not educated enough, will not understand and evaluate the given argument, but you??

II. Discussion

Task 1. Discuss the following questions with your partner.

1. State the difference between the following terms: dialogue, debate, discussion, and conversation.

2. Define the communication strategy. What?s the difference between a technique and a strategy?

3. What is strategic conversation? What is it used for?

4. What is a speech tactic?

5. Dwell on typical speech tactics used by speakers in their speeches in public.

Date: 2016-06-12; view: 132