Body Language: The Art of Non-Verbal Communication

Would you rather listen to a keynote speaker who shuffles onto the stage, clutches the sides of a podium, looks down, and then reads a speech in a monotone voice? Or would you rather listen to a speaker who springs onto the stage, looks you in the eyes, and presents a natural, welcoming smile?Your body language communicates volumes, and it is the first way your audience will experience the type of speaker you are – even before you say a thing.Body Language Conveys More than WordsSo much of what we communicate in business comes not from our words but from our bodies. Gestures, expressions, eye contact, and other movements can – and do – say far more than scripted content.First impressions are often formed unconsciously and almost instantaneously. Malcolm Gladwell, in his bestseller, Blink, noted that it takes as little as two seconds for opinions to be formed. Think about it. The body language of the presenter gripping the podium screams to the audience that he or she is nervous, isn’t prepared, or doesn’t want to be there. In contrast, a presenter who comes out with a smile and approaches you appears to be passionate and enthusiastic. In fact, you’re more likely to forgive and forget any minor mistakes made by the more-passionate presenter.The impact of body language goes beyond first impressions. A reporter was asked by his editor to watch a presidential debate – with the sound muted. He wrote a very interesting article in which he was asked to determine which candidate won based on body language alone: “[I]t was clear that the debate had produced a winner, at least to those of us who actually hadn’t heard a word of what the candidates had said: Mrs. Clinton. He had vibrated with anxiety; she had radiated cool confidence. He had seemed to be crawling out of his own skin; she had looked uncharacteristically comfortable in hers.” (NYT 9/27/16)Body Language Is an Essential Business Communication ToolBody language either complements or detracts from your message. Without the proper body language to back up your words and your passion, your presentation will be less than memorable.During our presentation coaching sessions, executives are surprised when they watch their presentations on video.  Too often they are shocked to discover their mouths and bodies are delivering different messages.Practice is essential to align your nonverbal body language with your spoken message. Focus on:PostureYour mother was right when she told you to stand up straight and stop slouching. Standing straight is a sign of confidence.Eye ContactEstablishing eye contact with your audience strengthens your message and enhances your credibility. It also helps your audience remember more of your content.Hand GesturesNothing screams dichotomy louder than hand gestures that don’t match the message. If your hands are gripped on the sides of the podium or are hanging at your sides, your message is diluted. If, on the other hand, you use hand gestures to help convey your message, it increases your perceived authenticity. Your hand gestures need to appear natural, so practice until they feel comfortable to you.Facial ExpressionsSmile.  It’s as simple as that. Of course, you want your facial expression to match the tone of your presentation. But if you simply begin with a smile, it sends the message that you are comfortable and pleased to be there.MovementThe human eye is drawn to movement. Don’t let a podium confine you. Walk about the stage. Stop in front of different sections of the audience. Thoughtful movement empowers you and enhances your credibility.Using body language effectively takes time and practice. Don’t worry if it feels stilted at first. Just keep practicing (and watching your rehearsals and presentations on video). You’ll learn to integrate how you move with what you say in a way that makes you a more effective speaker.Originally published on LinkedIn.