The Handy Communication Answer Book

Powerful oratory. Persuasive arguments. Succinct business pitches. Speeches and emails. From cave walls to the printing press, and from Cicero to TED talks, The Handy Communication Answer Book traces the history, explains the concepts, and examines the skills needed to master effective and efficient communication for every occasion. Providing insights and advice, this useful primer looks at how to improve verbal, nonverbal, and written communications.

Communication is a subject that fascinates and frustrates people. It varies by context, audience, purpose, and form. From speeches to body language and from legalese and technical writing to how the Internet changed everything, this informative book brings the intricacies of speaking, writing, listening, and reading into focus through its well-researched answers to nearly 800 common communication questions, such as What are some common barriers to communication? How did early radio affect American politics? What was Aristotle’s influence on rhetoric? How should I deal with a social media troll? How can I stop saying things like “um” and “ah”? How can I project authority without being overbearing? How can I better communicate up the corporate ladder? What clichés and common gaffes are easily avoided? Why are Ikea instructions an example of genius?

Lauren Sergy is a professional speaker, writer, coach, and trainer on public speaking, communications, rhetoric, and critical thinking. A member of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers, she has worked with a variety of clients, organizations, and audiences, including the government of Alberta, Northern Trust Corporation, the University of Alberta, Meeting Professionals International, and Alberta's Blue Cross Blue Shield.

She holds a master’s degree in Library and Information Studies and a bachelor of arts degree in English and Classics. Her articles have been published in Library Journal and her blog posts are featured on sites such as Duct Tape Marketing, The Wealthy Gorilla, and Young Upstarts; she regularly posts original content on public speaking and communications on her website at laurensergy.com. Sergy lives in Edmonton, Alberta.