An important component of executive presentation skills is using effective body language.
In fact, more than just a component, some contend that body language can communicate even more powerfully and persuasively than the written or spoken text of a presentation. Here are three of the most important aspects of body language that can be utilized to effective advantage during a presentation.
Facial Expressions
Let your face mirror the sentiment of your commentary. For instance, if you make a statement that is likely to be surprising, don’t hesitate to move your facial muscles in a way that acknowledges the unexpected nature of what you’re communicating. If you’re sharing a sentiment that is upbeat, or that can be categorized as “good news,” than by all means … smile! Of course, most presentations in a corporate setting deal with serious business. But that doesn’t preclude one from engaging in the occasional smile when the concept being communicated warrants it.
Gestures
Nobody expects – or for that matter, nobody wants – to see someone in a leadership role perform like a mime. So beware the exaggerated or melodramatic gesture. But on the other hand, some degree of animation is generally desirable and effective. Gestures tend to suggest a passion and deep engagement for what is being said, and that enthusiasm can be very persuasive to members of the audience.
Eye Contact
This may seem pretty obvious, but some speakers become so focused on their visuals, they neglect to maintain eye contact with their audience. One way to maximize eye contact and simultaneously retain the benefit of being prompted by the visual is to place a monitor in front of you, rather than relying upon the large screen that is generally placed behind a speaker’s position. When your visual information is in front of you, it is in the same line of sight as the audience. This makes it much easier to maintain eye contact, because all one need do is glance down for visual reference, as opposed to turning away from the audience to check the on-stage screen.
All this reinforces the point that executive presentation skills are really more science than art. The key is to learn the science … and then apply those principles artfully.