Summary

While words alone can't break your bones, words are powerful symbols and should be treated as such. In recognition of this fact, keep the following in mind as you construct your speeches:

• Language is symbolic and influences the process of perception.
• Language reflects the multiracial, multiethnic, multicultural audience of today.
• Effective language is inclusive rather than marginalizing or totalizing.
• Effective language enhances your audience's perception of your competence.
• Effective language takes advantage of devices such as metaphor, simile, alliteration, parallel structure, and repetition.
• Effective language connects with the auditory, tactile, and visual styles of processing information present in your audience.
• Effective language avoids unfair stereotypes and the use of words that perpetuate sexism.