All About Positive Body Language in Public Speaking

Communication includes both verbal and nonverbal factors. Verbal communication entails the use of words, whereas nonverbal communication includes gestures, facial expressions, and body language. A harmonic combination of verbal and nonverbal aspects is frequently required for effective communication.

Nonverbal communication is the silent technique of communicating a message to an audience or individual. Face-to-face communication improves the reliability of interpersonal interactions. Scientists and specialists are still deciphering numerous signs and suggestions in body language art since it is a sophisticated form of expression.Defining Body Language

Body language refers to reflexive or non-reflexive motions of the portion or full body, such as facial expressions, eye contact, posture, gestures, and so on, that are used to send a message. Body language, whether deliberate or not, is the nonverbal behavior we use to communicate with others.

We rarely notice ourselves, yet we are constantly communicating nonverbal information through our body language. Giving a successful presentation and captivating the audience requires us to speak via our bodies with purpose and poise, which means we must master our body language. Consider the message you want to send, and then utilize body language to help present it. In other words, understanding body language is an essential public speaking ability.

Body language is extremely important when giving a public speech. Good body language immediately builds a connection with your audience or peers.

No matter how brilliant the subject of your speech is, if you deliver it without emotion or poise, the audience will lose interest. The audience, after all, values good involvement from the speaker more than the subject itself. Not that content is unimportant, but strong body language can outperform a speaker who does not place a high value on body language.

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Your body language should reflect the topic of your discourse. If you plan to say yes, nodding yes is a wonderful way to communicate. Furthermore, the power of nonverbal communication extends both ways. Those who lack a decent grasp of body language will fail not only in academic settings, but also in personal relationships.

Positive body language should be promoted and taught to youngsters since it boosts confidence, increases self-esteem, and improves the art of nonverbal persuasion. Fortunately, body language can be taught to children at a young age, when their subconscious brains are still forming and positive habits are simpler to create.

Nonverbal Communication in Public Speaking

 

Do's and Don'ts of Positive Body Language

Let's go over some Do's of Positive body language.

1. Maintain Eye-contact

Maintain consistent and delicate eye contact with everyone, as this shows that the speaker cares about the listening. This also demonstrates your confidence and genuineness. People frequently feel that persons who attempt to conceal anything have difficulty looking you in the eyes, and this is correct. Remember that eye contact must be intentional and non-piercing in order to have an impact and foster trust.

2. Significant Hand Gestures

Hand gestures are a great way to support any speech. Appropriate and non-distracting movement can add significant liveliness to your speech. A closed hand shows denial or aggression, and we don't want that, do we? Keep your palms open and express yourself through your hand movements.

3. Posture: Open Body

Maintain your posture as wide and upright as possible. If you have a slouchy posture, you may appear unwelcoming and apprehensive. Not to mention being underconfident. A closed body distracts the audience. Instead of standing stiffly to one side, turn to face the audience and make deliberate tiny motions.



open body posture

4. Smile Please

Giving a genuine smile is the quickest way to people's hearts.  A kind expression demonstrates your confidence and cheerful personality. Also, people will perceive you to be approachable. The same is not valid if you have a very deadly look on your face. So, don’t be afraid to brighten everyone’s day and smile.

5. Keep the Correct Distance

When you stand too far away from the person you're talking to, they'll notice that you're uncomfortable. If you stand too near to them, you may make them uncomfortable. The same is true for the masses. The proper thing to do is to maintain a healthy closeness without infringing anyone's personal space.

6. Greet When Required

Greetings are how we welcome and acknowledge someone's presence. Handshakes, a slight pat on the back, an informal hug, or standing up when someone authoritative enters is also a form of greeting. Let your handshake be swift and firm, not too tight or casual. Understand your audience and respond to them accordingly.

These were some Dos, now let's dive into the Don'ts.

Avoid slouching or fidgeting

Moving the eyes downward to the floor increases the likelihood of slouching. Attempt to stand straight. Look into the eyes of those in the audience. We recommend practice looking up when speaking to avoid slouching. Fidgeting is common when you first start performing on stage, and the only way to eliminate it is to practice. As a result, we strongly advocate for teacher-led training.

We focus hugely on all these aspects and offer Public Speaking classes conducted by highly qualified and experienced teachers. These classes can help children in grades 3-8 be maestro in delivering speeches effectively.

Don't Cross Arms

When you cross your arms, the audience gets the impression that you've defended yourself, as if you're hiding something or resisting it. It's as if you're speaking but don't want to express yourself freely. That is the perception it makes. Avoid crossing your arms and utilize beautiful hand motions instead!

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Maintain Facial Expression

The most common error made by speakers is to appear bland or to communicate powerful emotions through their facial expressions. When explaining anything personal, always sure to show your feelings. Don't get lost in it, and don't overdo it. Return to the context of the discourse. As a result, you must return to a neutral facial expression.

Finally, we feel that positive body language may help your child improve their public speaking abilities and become a more confident speaker. To improve your public speaking abilities, it is always advisable to get guidance from a qualified coach. 98thPercentile Public Speaking classes can provide your child with the most suitable assistance in conquering the skills. To get your child excited about Public Speaking, check out our Public Speaking Program.

Book a free trial class for Public Speaking with 98thPercentile today!

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