6 Ways to Look More Confident During a Presentation
Introduction:
A few years ago, my colleagues and I were asked to predict the winners of a start-up pitch contest in Vienna, where 2,500 tech entrepreneurs were competing for a prize. While we were listening to the pitches, we focused not on the ideas being presented, but on the body language and facial expressions of the judges. We made our predictions based on what we saw, and we were right.
Two years later, we were invited back to the event. This time, we watched the contestants instead of the judges. Our task was to figure out how their body language affected their chances of success. We gave each presenter a score based on their confidence, such as whether they made eye contact, smiled, or used positive gestures. We found that those with confident body language were more likely to be rated highly by the judges and had more successful outcomes.
What Does This Mean for You?
The same principles apply in other areas, such as politics. During the 2012 U.S. presidential election, we studied the body language of Barack Obama and Mitt Romney. We found that Obama’s positive body language, like open gestures and confident posture, helped him connect better with people, even among Republicans. Romney, on the other hand, had more negative body language, which distracted from his message. While the election wasn’t decided by body language alone, it played a big role in how the candidates were perceived.
So, how can you use body language to appear more confident and persuasive, whether you’re giving a big presentation or speaking with your boss? Here are some simple gestures and tips to try.
1. The “Clinton Box”
In the early days of Bill Clinton’s political career, his large hand gestures made him seem untrustworthy. To fix this, his advisors told him to imagine a “box” around his chest and stomach. He then learned to keep his hand gestures within that space. This became known as the "Clinton Box." It helped him look more controlled and confident.
Try this: When you’re presenting, keep your hand gestures within this invisible box, just around your chest and stomach, to look more calm and in control.
2. Holding a Ball
Imagine you’re holding a basketball between your hands. This gesture shows confidence and control, as if you have all the facts at your fingertips. Steve Jobs often used this gesture when giving presentations.
Try this: When speaking, use this "holding a ball" gesture to show that you are confident and in control of the information you’re sharing.
3. Pyramid Hands
Nervous people often fidget with their hands, while confident people keep their hands still. A great way to appear confident is by putting your hands together in a relaxed pyramid shape. Many business leaders use this gesture to show they are calm and composed.
Try this: When you’re speaking, clasp your hands together in a relaxed pyramid shape in front of you. Just be careful not to overdo it or pair it with an arrogant facial expression.
4. Wide Stance
How you stand can say a lot about how you feel. When you stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, it makes you look strong and in control.
Try this: When you’re presenting, stand tall with your feet about shoulder-width apart. This will help you appear more grounded and confident.
5. Palms Up
Showing your palms with your hands open is a gesture that signals openness and honesty. Oprah Winfrey uses this gesture often during her speeches. It makes her seem approachable and genuine, even though she’s a powerful figure.
Try this: Use this gesture when you want to show you’re open and willing to connect with your audience. It’s a good way to build trust.
6. Palms Down
On the other hand, placing your palms down can also be a positive gesture. It signals authority, strength, and control. Barack Obama frequently used this gesture during his speeches to calm the crowd after a strong point.
Try this: When you want to assert your authority or calm a group, use a palms-down gesture. It shows confidence and helps you take control of the situation.
Practice Makes Perfect
Next time you have to give a presentation or speak to a group, try recording yourself and watching the video without sound. Focus only on your body language. Did you use any of these confident gestures? If not, think about how you can incorporate them into your next talk. You can practice in front of a mirror or with friends until the gestures feel natural.
Remember, body language alone won’t guarantee success, but it can certainly help you appear more confident and persuasive, which can lead to better results.
