Goal setting, based on an incisive analysis of an individual's
             strengths and weaknesses, can be a vital aid to the development of
             professional and personal skills. A lot, however, depends on the correct
             identification of strengths and weaknesses from the perspective of the
             subject matter in hand i.e. verbal and nonverbal communication skills. I,
             therefore, deemed it essential to begin an analysis of my verbal and
             nonverbal communication strengths and weaknesses, with a brief overview of
             the importance and elements involved in oral communication skills.
             Communication skills are an essential pre-requisite for success in
             one's professional and personal life. The importance of being able to
             communicate well is reflected in the fact that many employers specifically
             list communication skills as a job requirement in position listings. While
             employers place a great deal of emphasis on written communication skills,
             especially given the increasing use of information technology in both
             business and personal communication, it is interesting to note that oral
             communication skills assume far higher significance. Indeed, oral
             communication skills ranked first in importance in a survey conducted by
             the National Association of Colleges and Employers to determine the skills
             desired in potential employees (Southeast Missouri State University, 2003).
             It is not difficult to understand the vital need for excellent oral
             communication skills given its key role in determining the outcome of
             interpersonal relationships. Be it in the professional or personal arena,
             oral communication can impact the inner, emotional aspects of relationships
             since it has the power to, for example, persuade, comfort, support, or
             manage conflict (Finn & Powers, 2002). Though the very term oral'
             signifies verbal or the use of the spoken word, it is interesting to note
             that such communication is actually compose...