Complete Story
01/30/2025
Beyond Words – What Funeral Directors Say Without Saying a Thing
In funeral service, every movement, pause, and gesture sends a message — whether you intend it or not. This session introduces the P.R.E.S.E.N.C.E. Framework, a funeral service-specific approach to non-verbal communication that helps you build trust and connection with grieving families.
You’ll learn how to:
- Recognize and respond to family non-verbal cues
- Master the P.R.E.S.E.N.C.E. Framework: Apply eight non-verbal skills including Posture, Rhythm, Eye Connection, Sound, Environment, Near/Far positioning, Contact, and Everything Scented
- Adjust posture, eye contact, tone, and pacing for comfort and connection
- Spot unconscious habits that send unintended messages
- Navigate cultural differences with sensitivity
- Mitigate the effects of compassion fatigue on your presence
- Recover gracefully when interactions go poorly
- Maintain a consistent, professional presence in-person and online
You are always communicating. Even when you say nothing, your presence speaks volumes.
Kelly Manion
Director of Consumer Outreach
Homesteaders Life Company
