Psychologists say nonverbal expressions constitute more than 60 percent of interpersonal communication. Some research even claims 90 percent. What we say is therefore less important to our listeners than how we say it. However, when preparing presentations and other public appearances, we often forget about this fact and mainly prepare the verbal content of our speeches. Rehearsing in front of a mirror or a test audience seems stupid to us. We tell ourselves that we were not born great speakers and that is the way it is. This is a major mistake. Try to start improving your nonverbal communication and soon you will see it works.
1. Learn to speak with your eyes
Each of your listeners should feel that you are looking at him the whole time during your speech. However, this certainly does not mean you should stare at your audience. Start by not using any papers or cards, because when you read your speech, you are either looking in the paper or at the back wall of the room. Speak off the cuff, move your eyes slowly around the room from left to right, and look in the eyes of your listeners. If you need to emphasize a point, stop moving your eyes. As a rule stick to looking at the audience for the whole time. If you need to show something on the board or screen, do it quickly and look back at the people.
2. Open yourself to the audience
Hand gestures help create enthusiasm for the story you are telling. Your hands should, therefore, not hang motionless along side your body or remain hidden behind your back. Natural hand movements will help you look more open and credible. Be careful, however, not to cross your hands in front of your body. This gesture represents distance. Similarly do not cross your legs. Another way to appear more open is to move closer to the audience, stand as close to the audience as possible. The smaller the space between you and the audience, the better.
3. Smile
When you start smiling, your self-esteem increases. This comes in very handy when you are nervous. If you are shaking with nerves before the speech, try to smile and you'll see that you will feel better immediately. Smiling will relax your body and your brain will then be able to concentrate better on your presentation. Likewise, the audience will feel better when they see your smile.
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