When we first started to learn more about nonverbal communication, the team here at SlideMagnet was blown away to discover that most of the conversations we imagine we are having are simply not what they seem. Research shows that most of what we communicate to our friends, family, lovers, neighbors and presentation audiences has nothing to do with the words that are babbling out of our faces.
Nonverbal communication isn’t something you need to learn how to do. You’re doing it all the time! No matter what you are saying to someone with your spoken words you are saying much more with an array of other behaviors that you’re probably not aware of. This is the reason why your best joke got a laugh from the pretty blond at the party, but you didn’t get her phone number. You’re words said “witty, smart, cool guy”, but your nonverbal communication said “weirdo”.
The good news is that you can change all of that by understanding all the other, subtle ways that we tell people who we are, what we’re feeling and what we really think.
Eye Eye
Eye contact can help to regulate the flow of communication, and it increases the speaker’s credibility. Presenters who make eye contact open the flow of communication and convey interest and warmth.
Smile a Smile
Smiling is one of the most important cues you can make use of. Again, it’s easy to forget to smile in the midst of a complex presentation, but its a powerful expression that shouldn’t be underestimated. Smiling creates affiliation between you and your audience, and a great smile is infectious and can lighten the mood of an entire room.
Body Talk
Gesturing effectively when you are speaking will create a perception that you are energetic and engaged, you’ll also be far more interesting to watch than someone who just stands and speaks. Gestures can also clarify the ideas you are expressing allowing your message to come across more effectively.
Posture
It’s important to stand up straight when you are presenting. Slumping or slouching sends the signal that you aren’t very engaged or energized about addressing your audience. Don’t get rigid, but stand up straight when you are presenting. Good posture communicates authority and credibility. Use it!
Proximity
The distance we assume from other people can affect the way a presentation comes off. When we stand back from the audience it can create a formality that can be very powerful. However, when we step closer to the audience we can create intimacy. Combining the two techniques can add a dynamic rhythm to your PowerPoint presentation.
Begin to become aware of the messages you are sending when you’re not saying anything at all. Learn the language of nonverbal communication and you can bring a whole new dimension to your presenting.
