Jill s Essay
A Study in the Nuances of Communications Antiques Roadshow
Antiques Roadshow is a display of the non-verbal and verbal cues present in professional communication. Non-verbal cues include use of gestures and eye contact whilst a verbal cue includes the use of language. Certain elements overlap in both categories. These include the specific manner in which the expert relates to the owner, shift of power, manner in which the item is held and discussed and levels of courtesy expressed.
Specific Manner
The antique expert exerts a sense of comfort onto the seller. This is achieved through the use of humor, to keep the seller engaged and interested in their professional opinions. Furthermore, the expert utilises a personal tone in contrast with the seller’s professional tone to make the seller feel valued. This in turn, convinces the seller that their items are worthy of investing in and not priceless antiques.
Shift of Power
At the beginning of each discussion, the owner appears to be in control of the situation, by describing the item. However, as the conversation progresses, the expert appears to be dominant, through their additional knowledge of the item. Also, the power they hold to quote each item places them in a position above that of the owner. Ultimately, it is the item that holds the power to be sold for a higher or lower price. This depends on the condition of the item and how aesthetically pleasing it is to the expert and audience.
Use of Gestures and Eye Contact
Throughout the course of the discussion, there is frequent but not constant eye contact between the owner and expert. The expert looks down onto the item when describing the item. However, they make eye contact with the owner when posing a question or making a personal comment. This is evident when the expert enquires about the origins or commenting on the condition of the item. Furthermore, the owner responds with eye contact that corresponds to that of the expert. It is
Antiques Roadshow is a display of the non-verbal and verbal cues present in professional communication. Non-verbal cues include use of gestures and eye contact whilst a verbal cue includes the use of language. Certain elements overlap in both categories. These include the specific manner in which the expert relates to the owner, shift of power, manner in which the item is held and discussed and levels of courtesy expressed.
Specific Manner
The antique expert exerts a sense of comfort onto the seller. This is achieved through the use of humor, to keep the seller engaged and interested in their professional opinions. Furthermore, the expert utilises a personal tone in contrast with the seller’s professional tone to make the seller feel valued. This in turn, convinces the seller that their items are worthy of investing in and not priceless antiques.
Shift of Power
At the beginning of each discussion, the owner appears to be in control of the situation, by describing the item. However, as the conversation progresses, the expert appears to be dominant, through their additional knowledge of the item. Also, the power they hold to quote each item places them in a position above that of the owner. Ultimately, it is the item that holds the power to be sold for a higher or lower price. This depends on the condition of the item and how aesthetically pleasing it is to the expert and audience.
Use of Gestures and Eye Contact
Throughout the course of the discussion, there is frequent but not constant eye contact between the owner and expert. The expert looks down onto the item when describing the item. However, they make eye contact with the owner when posing a question or making a personal comment. This is evident when the expert enquires about the origins or commenting on the condition of the item. Furthermore, the owner responds with eye contact that corresponds to that of the expert. It is