Southwest Airlines Professional Communications Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of effective oral communication?

1. Reading a script verbatim

2. Ensuring the tone used is open and non-confrontational

3. Speaking rapidly to convey enthusiasm

4. Using complex jargon

The correct answer is: Ensuring the tone used is open and non-confrontational

The choice of ensuring the tone used is open and non-confrontational exemplifies effective oral communication because it creates an environment conducive to dialogue and understanding. A non-confrontational tone encourages listeners to engage, share their thoughts, and ask questions without feeling attacked or defensive. This fosters a positive interaction and helps establish trust and rapport between the speaker and the audience. Effective communication is not just about the words spoken; it’s also significantly influenced by how those words are delivered, including the speaker's tone and body language. By contrast, reading a script verbatim can lead to a lack of engagement, as it may make the interaction feel mechanical rather than dynamic. Speaking rapidly might convey enthusiasm, but it can also overwhelm listeners, making it difficult for them to grasp the message. Lastly, using complex jargon can alienate listeners who may not be familiar with the terminology, hindering effective communication rather than facilitating it. Thus, maintaining an open and non-confrontational tone is a key aspect of fostering effective oral communication.