Body language during a presentation
Have you ever paid attention to what you're saying on stage non-verbally? What does your body express while you're telling your story? Body language will transfer a great deal of information which will matter just as much as the actual story you're telling. A good tip if you want to improve: film yourself when taking the stage. Analyze and improve by practicing in the mirror, it might seem like an obvious tip but it still works. Good luck!
A powerful posture
Your body language is extremely important when talking to another person. Why? Because your posture gives a lot of secondary information which will be subconsciously interpreted by the audience. When will you be perceived as a powerful person for instance? Amy Cuddy explains in her talk that when standing in a posture of confidence, also named power posing, it can boost your feelings of being confident. Want to know which types of postures will help you feeling more confident? Have a look yourself!
Moving on stage
In some cases there is a lectern on stage and most people tend to stay behind it and stand still. When moving around at a normal pace on stage, you will create a more relaxed setting instead of a forced position. It can be very effective to walk toward the audience before making an important point, and away when you want to signal a break or a change of subject.
Persuade the audience with your palms
When you’re presenting on stage, you will most probably use your hands while talking. This is a natural way to emphasize the things you’re saying. Probably you haven’t really paid much attention to this, but the way you position your palms will give a great deal of information to your audience.
Showing your palms and placing them upward stands for openness and is perceived as appealing by the brain. This way you will easier invite people in your story and persuade them with what you’re saying. The other version is facing your palms downside; when positioning your hands this way it feels to people as if they’re getting orders of you. It might be helpful in some situations, but in general people will feel more resistance to your message. Watch this TED Talk if you want to know more about this subject.
Eye movement
Empower your speech by making eye contact with the audience. Of course it’s not possible to maintain eye contact with every single person, but direct your gaze to different parts (or persons) in the audience to give the idea that you’re focussing your attention to everyone in the crowd.
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