To summarize, the ability to engage your audience—whether an individual or a group—is a key element of effective communication. Basic strategies for engaging an audience include the following:

• Understand your audience, and use that understanding to tailor your communication.
• “Read” your audience and be sensitive to nonverbal cues.
• Listen carefully, using paraphrasing to confirm your understanding.
• Use questions to encourage interaction and allow time for audience response—even if it means remaining silent.