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Misunderstanding body language
Contrary to popular belief, body language in the context of public speaking is more than hand and arm gesture.
It means adjusting the way we stand, move and smile to capture and hold the attention of an audience.
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What puts an audience off
- We indicate that we are feeling threatened when we take a step back or we show any sign of a closed body language.
- Crossing our arms also shows nervousness and it puts our audience in a defensive mode.
- Your end up showing that you feel superior to the rest of the room if you tilt your head backward.
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Match your gestures to your message
Match your gestures to your words.
We are visual creatures, and any movement used in the right way in this direction will spark the attention of your audience. Just try not to abuse this rule.
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Give your hands a break
Most of us don't really know what to do with our hands while talking. And this may add the nervousness of the public speaking experience.
It's ok to just leave them by your sides when you’re not using them.
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Signaling empathy
When you’re trying to show empathy, you tilt your head to one side. And good listeners are head tilters.
You can give the same impression by tilting your head even when you're the one that's doing the talking.
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Genuine smiles
Smiling with your whole face will make your audience feel more at ease and will get them to respond positively to your message.
Don't fake it though. Just visualize happy things or think of a person that usually brings the smile on your face.
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Don’t panic
Even if you don't remember what you have to say next, don't act on that fear that hits you and avoid to tense up.
To recover from this moment, adopt an open posture, take deep breaths, talk slowly and smile. It will make you feel more comfortable.
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Practice
To become great at public speaking, you have to practice becoming tuned in to your everyday body language.
Become familiar with your usual gestures and movements and then you will be able to start making improvements.
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IDEAS CURATED BY
Alana F.'s ideas are part of this journey:
Learn more about communication with this collection
How to ask open-ended questions
How to avoid awkward silences
How to show interest in others
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