Body Language

How important is your body language during your presentation? Study shows that 93% of what your audience receives is none verbal. I would say that body language is very important. A lot of times I see that presenters interpret body language as hand movement or moving around the stage. Unfortunately little attention is given to facial expressions and eye contact. I suggest to take the body language as a package as a whole. For instance eye contact presents you to the audience as an honest person. Avoiding eye contact gives an impression that you have something to hide and you are not trustworthy. Facial expression should be friendly, do not be afraid to smile when it is appropriate. Movements around the stage must be purposeful. For example building a time line on stage is a good reason to move on stage. Showing structure on stage is another good reason for movement. Try not to clasp your hands or make fists. Try not to cross them in front or behind your back. Suggestion is to assume an open posture, be friendly, smile and exhibit a feeling of having a good time. I realize that you may not have a good time standing in front an audience. You may have a very difficult time, however your audience must not see or feel that. At least on the outside try to show that all is good and you are enjoying the company.