This fifth instalment in the Presentations series is all about the way you move and act. Here we are going to look at what the audience see when they watch you present specifically, the way you act. This will have a big impact on how effective your presentation is, so read on to master body language skills and improve your grade.
Body Language
You probably already know that body language is vital to effective communications. But when you hear statistics that say ‘body language is more than 70% of communication’ do you really know what this means?
Body language is the form of communication that allows us to control and manipulate the atmosphere in a particular place. Of course you can’t teach someone calculus through body language alone! However if you try to teach them and you have to wrong body language (uncertain, afraid, nervous) they may find it difficult to believe you, or may become distracted or bored.
In this section we’re going to look at 3 things to think about to communicate effectively using your body – whether to friends or teachers. So…what do you need to think about?
How Many People?
This is important to know before your presentation. If you’re in a small class (1 – 10 people) you might be most comfortable sitting around a table. This is especially true if you are leading a discussion. So, if you’re running a discussion in a small ToK class, you would probably do well to sit around tables and talk.
If you’re talking to a bigger class (10 – 20 people) You should consider standing at the front even if you’re leading a discussion. You may need to control the class more and standing in front of people will give you more authority.
With a big class (20+) you will almost certainly want to be at the front. Not only does this give you more authority, but it is simply needed if everyone is to see or hear you well.
As always, ask your teacher howthey would set up a class with that number of people. Remember, your teacher is an expert who wants to help you – and that is a valuable thing!
Control
Most people are scared of talking in front of a big group. Nobody likes to be judged and we all want to do well. So getting up in front of your class is likely to make you nervous, worried, even a little afraid. However, a good presentation needs you to seem charismatic, confident and in control. So, how can we make sure that even when you’re feeling nervous you give a great presentation?
Controlling your body language is essential. Even professional speakers get nervous before a big presentation, but these people have learned the tricks to controlling themselves. The big two things you need to think about are:
- Control your arms!
It is important that you do not wave your arms around during the presentation. SO what should you do with your arms to stop them from flapping around while you’re trying to explain your groups science experiment. You must have a resting place for your hands. This is where your hands should be when you are in a neutral stance. For many people, holding their hands lightly together behind their back is an neutral way to stand. If you’re a person who flaps their hands, then try this. Of course move your arms to point at a slide, or emphasise a point. But when you aren’t sure where to put your hands, just pop them behind your back. Try to avoid crossing your arms – this makes it seem like you are closed and do not want to communicate. Try to avoid clasping your hands in front of you at waist level – this seems very defensive. And try to avoid fidgeting with pens, paper or PC controllers. - Control your feet.
Waving your arms can be distracting. So can pacing around the stage all the time. If you are presenting alone you may wish to walk from one side of the class to the other. Movement can help people to stay focussed. But do not do this often. This is a presentation – not a race! Find a neutral place and stay there (just like having a neutral place for your hands!).
Rocking sucks. Sorry ACD
C fans, I didn’t mean to offend you! What I mean is that some people tend to stay in one place and rock backward and forward, or sway left and right. Make sure this isn’t you! Stay in one place, take a deep breath and don’t rock or sway!
Passion
You’ve just been reading about control, which is really important to make sure you don’t distract your audience and that you seem calm. Being calm and in control is a good start and is important for a good presentation. BUT WE AREN’T ABOUT GOOD – WE’RE ABOUT GREAT, AND SO ARE YOU! So how do you put the life back into those presentations? How do you use your body language to get people engage with your topic? Passion.
If you do not believe that your topic is interesting, neither will anyone else.
It’s as simple as that. Passion is infectious. Show your passion and other people will catch it. You can show your passion by smiling at a fact that you think is positive. By gesticulating (moving your arms) when you care about what you’re saying. You show passion by looking into people’s eyes when you tell them a fact that is really interesting. Be passionate and your audience will feel it and care about your topic.
Huh? You want a final tip? What’s the big secret? OK…I’ll tell you….Â
RECORD YOURSELF AND PRACTICE
Nobody likes to watch themselves present, but this one simple technique will ensure you give the best presentation possible.
Anyway, that’s my last tip.
Read Part 6: Using Images & Videos
