How important is body language when presenting? Well, unless you’re using a nonvisual mode of communicating, such as e-mail or the telephone, it’s extremely important.

For example, body language experts can tell how well couples get along by watching them from across a crowded, noisy restaurant. In the Nixon-Kennedy debate, those who listened on the radio thought Nixon won. But those who watched it on television felt Kennedy won. Kennedy was fit and tan and wore makeup while Nixon refused makeup and shifted his eyes back and forth.

Attorneys often read the body language of the jury to see how well they’re presenting their case and which jurors among them need further convincing. Likewise, juries (consciously or subconsciously) consider the body language of the attorneys as they present their case. The jury may also watch the defendant for signs of innocence or guilt.

With so much riding on the impressions people receive visually, let’s look at what body language includes:

1. Eye Contact: The eyes are said to be the mirror of the soul. I recommend smiling with your eyes. Have Irish eyes. I find I’m skeptical of people who blink or flutter their eyes when speaking. I question their honesty.
2. Facial Expressions: I used to be told I didn’t smile enough when speaking to a group. I didn’t realize the truth of that statement until I saw myself on video. Smiling helps you connect with your audience. Besides, everybody smiles in the same language. I even recommend smiling over the phone. It comes across.
3. Arms: As a general rule, talking without using gestures can make it harder for your audience to comprehend what you’re saying, especially if you’re discussing something complicated. The most effective gestures are spontaneous ones. And yes, I also recommend using your hands when you’re communicating over the phone, as the movement can help your words come out more naturally.
4. Movement and posture: Before your talk, visualize yourself moving smoothly and swiftly. Believe it or not, footwork is important. Interestingly, footwork is even important in a relatively stationary sport like golf. Likewise, presenters should be light on their feet, as opposed to being frozen in one place. You should move purposefully, too, because it gives you more authority.
5. Dress: While clothes aren’t really body language, they’re part of the visual component of presenting. I’ve heard a number of suggestions regarding attire, not the least of which is “Always dress as well as or better than the best dressed person in the audience.” My all-time favorite thought on what to wear while presenting is “Dress as if you have somewhere more important to go.”

Now, I’d like to dispel one of the biggest body language myths. Just because someone crosses their arms, doesn’t mean they’re unreceptive to your message. They may be cold or even just more comfortable folding their arms. Therefore, you shouldn’t read too much into it.
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Also, keep in mind that not everyone is demonstrative. Some people communicate with their voice, their confidence, their content, and their sense of humor more effectively than someone who is very physical. Body language isn’t everything in presenting. Yes, it’s a huge part (some say over 50% of your message is conveyed visually), but it’s just one part.

For an excellent book on presenting, which addresses body language effectively, check out Bert Decker’s You’ve Gotta Be Believed to Be Heard.

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