The way one presents himself or herself has always been neglected by most presenters. Some presenters do not pay attention to this area and are satisfied only with their subject matter.
There are, however, positive aspects to body language as well as negative ones that may affect your overall presentation.
These may include among others your stance, posture and facial expressions, to mention just a few. This article will explore these aspects with a view to assisting presenters improve on them. A sloppy appearance is never appropriate, no matter the audience or the setting.
It is therefore important for the presenter to see to it that he/she dresses well.
There is need to ensure you groom your hair and dress appropriately.
It is advisable not to put on flashy garments or adornments and jewellery.
As you are introduced and come before your audience, it helps to show a smile.
Do not just show a toothy grin, but just a warm sincere smile.
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An effective presenter needs to stand erect, hands by the side or clasped in front while being introduced.
Though you may feel nervous during that time, you need to stay focused on your appearance and your audience who will be checking on you.
Where there is a podium, the presenter should not be tempted to use it as a prop or lean on it in any way.
Leaning on the podium conveys a weakness and may also portray you as someone who is bossy and has no respect for your audience. It is also an unconscious statement indicating that you are nervous.
Smiling slightly as you make your opening remarks is essential as it quickly connects you with your audience.
Remain smiling as you get to your introduction, but put on a more serious expression as you outline the subject you are going to be talking about.
Maintaining eye contact with your audience is also important.
There is nothing worse for part of the audience you are speaking to, to have a feeling that you are solely presenting to those at the centre only while neglecting them.
Make an effort to have eye contact with individuals in different sections in the room often, and stay focused long enough that the sections of your audience feel you are talking to them as individuals.
If you need to take water, as many speakers seem to do, choose your moments carefully.
This could be done during the time you change a subject or tone.
It helps to make humorous remarks about what you are doing so as to ease the moment considerably. Finally, a word about voice, tone, volume and pace — need your attention.
Your presentation should never be delivered in a monotone.
It should always be delivered slowly, though not too slowly.
At points needing emphasis, go even slower and repeat the key points.
Raise your voice level a little at moments requiring amplification or emotional content.
Repeat what you say when needed using slightly different words and different pace and volume when the situation calls for that.
Paying attention to how you project yourself will without fail mould you into an effective presenter.
So do not despair as you have all it takes to be at that level if you focus on developing areas discussed in this article as well many others that are expected of an effective presenter.
