Which arrangement best conveys concern, credibility, and sincerity when presenting a speech?

• A. Speak loudly
• B. Read from notes
• C. Maintain eye contact
• D. Use a monotone voice

Answer: (C)

Eye contact is a powerful nonverbal signal in a speech. By looking at listeners, you show you’re focused on them and confident in what you’re saying, which communicates genuine concern for their understanding and sincerity in the message. This connection helps establish credibility because audiences interpret steady, natural gaze as honesty and command of the topic, and it invites feedback through facial expressions that you can respond to. In contrast, speaking loudly can come off as aggressive or attention-seeking rather than engaging; reading from notes creates a barrier between speaker and audience and can undermine perceived honesty and involvement; a monotone voice signals little emotional engagement and can diminish credibility regardless of the content.