Insider Tips to Powerful Public Speaking
I wanted to share a few secrets I’ve discovered about public speaking with you. These go above and beyond the basics that I have written about previously, like organizing your content, snappy openings, and handling stage fright.
These tips are just as important as they build subliminal trust with your audience and help you to polish your presence on the platform.
1- Watch where you stand. If you are using PowerPoint or other technology, stand on the right side of the screen side (assuming your slides are in English, reading left to right). This will make it easier for your audience to read the written words on the slides and then naturally bring their eyes to you. By positioning yourself on the right side, your audience won’t have to shift their eyes. It sounds crazy, but that’s extra work for them! This makes for a nice, easy flow. If the podium is on the left side, either move it or don’t use it.
2-Keep your jacket open. In nonverbal communication, a closed jacket indicates you are hiding something. Send the subliminal message that you are open, honest and revealing.
3- Pass the prizes. If you have a giveaway for someone who volunteers for an activity and the person is seated, hand the item to someone in the front and ask them to pass it back to the winner. Others in the audience will touch it. This is especially effective if you have a product to sell. For instance, I usually have my “Communicating with Confidence” books for sale whenever I speak. I keep a few up front with me to use as give-aways when people volunteer. As the audience members pass the book back to the “winner” or volunteer, I casually mention I have copies in the back for sale. Once people have touched the book, they want to go back and buy a copy. It piques everyone’s curiosity.
These strategies can help you to build rapport and connect with your audience. They also build credibility and trust- two important qualities that speakers and experts need for success in business.
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