Body Language Speaks to Your Audience

Abstract

It is very normal for presenters to feel apprehensive when they are about to speak. Presenters are there to get the undivided focus of the entire audience, after all. However, to present successfully, you should project an air of feeling relaxed and confident in what you are saying. Body language can help to convey this impression. Your dress style, the position you stand in, how you walk, the expression on your face and how you move your hands and arms all constitute what is termed “body language”. Body language plays an equal, if not greater, role in communication than verbal language (i.e. the words you speak). Indeed, even before you open your mouth, your body has already begun to communicate with the audience. Actors are experts in the skilful use of body language. Acting on stage or on the screen involves the constant use of elements of body language to convey a character’s personality, that person’s emotions and passions and the reaction to the unfolding drama. It is worth studying how they achieve this and emulating their techniques.