How key is body language in speech?

Learn how key body language is in speech.

In this fifth and final video from my 'Peek Inside Persuasive Presentations' course series, I explain the importance of body language and share crucial insights about maintaining the right posture.

Professionals often ask me 'What makes a good speaker?' and the first body language technique I teach them is how to command authority with their whole body. Frequently referred to as executive presence. It starts with having a strong core and a straight back. Just like yoga!

60% of our communication is nonverbal!  What we say with our bodies! And some studies say more. Wow, isn’t that an incredible statistic? 

You see the human brain makes multiple millisecond judgments based on sight and sound, the moment you first see and meet someone. The subconscious assesses and reads the posture and appearance to decide if you will warm to them and if you can trust them.

So body language is critical. It gives you presence and authority too. And people perceive you to be a better leader, if you have stronger body language. 

And as a result you can exert more influence on your audience.

So let's start with your posture. 

Place your feet firmly on the ground, hip width apart and with equal weight on your toes and heels,  so you are strongly grounded and have a solid base. 

From this foundation, you can take the energy upwards; allowing you to focus, when you’re communicating. With your body strongly grounded, your ideas will automatically have more power. 

Let's imagine a straight line from the ground and up through the pelvis and spinal column and through the center of the head with shoulders back and chin parallel to the floor. Neither chin raised (a sign of arrogance) or chin lower (a sign of submission). And neither head jutting forward or head back and chest out. 

If you are unsure of the exact position, place your heels against a wall/door and stand up straight with your buttocks, shoulders and head touching.”

If you want to discuss your organisation’s (corporate, NGOs, Associations and Universities) Public speaking or Presentation skills needs, I offer free 30-minute consultations through my site. I’d love to meet you.