How important is body language when giving a speech?
Body language is very important. Researchers have found that most people pay more attention to body language than to the actual content of the speech. They found that people were more aware of the speaker's appearance (55%) than the content of the speech (7%). They also found that the speaker's voice influenced the impact of the speech. This accounted for 38% of the audience's impression of the speaker.
In total, around 93% of the speaker's performance was judged on their body language and voice. Only 7% was attributed to the content of the speech. Body language is very important.
What should I be aware of when standing and delivering?
The main parts of the body that influence an audience are:
Feet
Hands
Posture
Movement
Eyes
Smile
How should I stand when giving a presentation?
To appear as a confident presenter, the feet should be shoulder-width apart. The toes should point outward. This gives you stability and conveys the impression of authority to the audience.
What should I do with my arms and hands?
Let your arms hang loosely by your side. They should be relaxed and ready to emphasise any major point in your speech. This will come naturally when you speak with emotion.
What do you mean by posture?
Posture is the natural and comfortable position of the body in normal, healthy people. Good posture makes the speaker appear relaxed. It conveys the impression of confidence and authority.
The chin should be at 90 degrees to the body. If your chin is down, you will be seen as shy and uncomfortable. If your chin is raised, you create an impression of arrogance. Also, notice how this affects your voice and you no longer sound natural.
Any tips on how to move while I am presenting?
Your movement on stage should be slow and deliberate. Quick or hesitant moves make you appear nervous. This makes your audience feel anxious and distracts from your message.
What is the importance of the eyes when speaking to an audience?
Society tends to doubt the integrity of people who do not look them in the eye or quickly look away after making eye contact. Conversely, people who look a person in the eye when they speak are seen to be more creditable and trustworthy. This is the impression a speaker wants to make. So make eye contact. If looking people in the eye is difficult at first, try looking at the bridge between the eyebrows. This gives the impression of eye contact.
How should I smile?
If you are naturally happy and comfortable when in front of an audience, you will automatically project your confidence by smiling. If you are nervous, there is a chance that you will have a fake smile showing lots of teeth or have no smile and look glum. The best remedy is to keep the lips closed and move them into the smile position. This projects an aura of happiness and does not look forced.
Conclusion
I hope this session on body language has been useful. You are now aware of the importance of your physical appearance to the audience and realise how much it contributes to the success of your speech.
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