Public speaking can be nerve-wracking, but it doesn’t have to be.
In fact, how you carry yourself can make all the difference when it comes to commanding a room.
It’s not just about what you say, but how you say it – and that includes your body language.
Through adopting certain body language tricks, you can exude confidence even if you’re feeling a little shaky on the inside.
I’m about to share 7 body language tricks that, with practice, can help boost your confidence when speaking in public.
Let’s get started.
1) Stand tall and proud
The first thing people notice about you when you walk onto a stage is how you carry yourself.
Your posture speaks volumes about your confidence level. If you’re slouched or hunched over, it sends a message that you’re uncomfortable or unsure.
On the flip side, standing tall with your shoulders back and head held high projects confidence and command. It tells the audience that you’re comfortable in your own skin and ready to share something valuable with them.
But this isn’t just about appearances. Adopting a powerful posture can actually make you feel more confident. It’s a psychological trick that works wonders.
So next time you’re preparing to give a talk, take a moment to focus on your posture. Stand tall and proud, like you mean business, because guess what? You do.
2) Maintain eye contact
I remember giving a presentation during my first year of college. I was so eager to get through it, I ended up staring at my notes the whole time. When I finally looked up, I realized that I had lost my audience’s attention.
That’s when I learned the importance of eye contact.
Maintaining eye contact when speaking in public is a powerful way to connect with your audience. It shows that you’re confident, engaged, and invested in what you’re saying. It can also help keep your audience’s attention.
Sure, it can feel a bit uncomfortable at first. But with practice, it becomes easier and makes a world of difference in how your message is received.
Now, whenever I’m speaking in public, whether it’s a small meeting or a large conference, I make sure to look into the eyes of those I’m speaking to. It helps me create a connection with them and hold their attention throughout my talk.
3) Use open gestures
Our bodies have a language of their own, and how we use our hands while speaking can greatly impact how our message is perceived.
Open gestures, such as spreading your arms or showing your palms, signal openness and honesty. It suggests that you’re comfortable in the space and with the audience.
In contrast, closed gestures like crossing your arms or clasping your hands can signal defensiveness or nervousness.
Interestingly, a study found that the most popular TED Talk speakers used an average of around 465 hand gestures, compared to the less popular speakers who used around 272. This shows the power of using open gestures to engage an audience and communicate effectively.
When you’re speaking in public, remember to use your hands to reinforce your words. It’s a simple trick that can significantly boost the effectiveness of your speech.
4) Smile genuinely
Never underestimate the power of a genuine smile. It’s a universal sign of friendliness and approachability. When you smile, your audience is more likely to feel comfortable and engaged with what you’re saying.
But remember, it should be genuine. A forced or fake smile can be easily spotted and can cause your audience to distrust you.
Smiling also has a positive effect on your own mood. It releases endorphins, which are known as ‘feel good’ hormones. This can help reduce your own nerves and make you feel more confident while speaking.
When you step onto that stage or stand up in that meeting, don’t forget to flash a warm, genuine smile. It can set a positive tone for your entire presentation.
5) Slow down your speech
I remember being so nervous during a high school debate competition that I ended up speaking at a mile a minute. By the time I finished, I could see the confused faces of the audience members. They hadn’t been able to keep up with what I was saying.
That experience taught me the importance of pacing my speech.
When we’re nervous, we tend to speak quickly. But speaking too fast can make it hard for our audience to follow along. Slow, deliberate speech, on the other hand, can make us sound more confident and in control.
Take a deep breath, slow down and give your words time to land. It can make all the difference in how your message is received.
6) Use pauses effectively
A well-placed pause can be a powerful tool when speaking in public. It gives your audience time to digest what you’ve just said, and can also create suspense or emphasize a point.
Rather than rushing through your speech, try to incorporate strategic pauses. They can help you regain composure if you’re feeling nervous, and also give your audience moments of silence to reflect on your words.
Don’t be afraid of silence. Embrace it, and use it to make your speech more impactful.
7) Practice, practice, practice
There’s no shortcut to mastering public speaking. It’s a skill that requires consistent practice and refinement. The more you practice these body language tricks, the more naturally they’ll come to you, and the more confident you’ll feel.
Confidence isn’t something you’re born with, it’s something you build. So put in the work, practice these body language tricks, and watch your public speaking skills transform.
Final thoughts
Public speaking can be daunting, but the beauty of body language is that it’s a silent language we’re all fluent in without even realising.
Every gesture, every posture, every smile or frown sends a message, and learning to control these signals can truly elevate your public speaking skills.
But remember, it’s not just about ‘acting’ confident. It’s about feeling confident. And that comes with practice and patience.
These 7 body language tricks are tools to help you on this journey. They’re not instant fixes, but consistent practice can make them second nature and transform the way you present yourself to the world.
As Mark Twain once said, “There are only two types of speakers in the world: the nervous and liars.”
So, whether you’re a seasoned speaker or stepping onto the stage for the first time, remember that it’s okay to be nervous. What matters is that you keep showing up, keep practicing, and keep refining your skills.
Your journey towards becoming a confident public speaker starts here. And remember, every step forward is a step in the right direction.
