Is the ability to captivate an audience a talent or a skill? Quite frankly, arguments can be made for both sides. Some people just “have it”—the confidence, the cadence, the clarity. Others are naturally more reserved, quiet, or awkward. Stage presence can seem like this ominous gift bestowed only upon the chosen. This begs the question: can stage presence be developed? We believe it can. With the right amount of direction, practice, passion, and vision, anyone can deliver a compelling speech. But where to start? Standing up and looking to your audience are great places to begin.
Seeing Eye-to-Eye
As an audience member, it can seem like some speakers have the ability to see right through to your soul. They deliver information with such fervor topped off by compelling eye contact at just the right moment. But for most, eye contact with audience members can be absolutely daunting. Who to direct your attention toward? When to scan the room and when to connect with one side or one person? If this doesn’t come naturally to you, there are strategies to overcome the awkward nature of eye contact.
One of the most impactful approaches is looking around the room before starting your speech for a few friendly-looking faces in different parts of the room. Choose one to the left, one to the right, one center, one in the front, one in the back. Landing your eyes on soft places will take some of the intimidation out of the delivery and help you focus on your core message. The next time you find yourself in the audience with a seasoned speaker, notice how often they shift focus, when they scan to the other side of the room, and to whom they are looking.
Standing with Purpose
Does it come naturally to you to walk around the stage while delivering your message? Probably not. The majority of speakers focus best while keeping the lower half of their body still. This means no foot tapping, no shifting weight from side to side, no leaning on a podium and standing back up. Finding your footing in message delivery can be as easy as doing just that—finding your footing. Take a broad, powerful stance and stay there. Leave the movement to your arms and the upper half of your body.
While it varies depending on the setting, the 55/38/7 formula gives some insight into how important body language can be. The idea is that 55% of communication is body language, 38% is the tone of voice, and 7% is the actual words spoken. Knowing the weight body language has on your emotional perception might compel you to study your gestures and make sure they are meaningful. Unless you are in the minority of speakers who can effectively move while you speak, planting your feet may lower your chances for awkward fidgets and nervous pacing.
Finally, be honest with yourself and your audience. Your confidence will develop over time, and while it is still being mastered, making a candid comment to the audience about your nerves will draw out empathy and understanding. Our presentation coaches have a lot of resources to help hone this skill, even if it is not a talent you thought you would ever possess. If you find yourself doubting that your stage presence can be developed, reach out. We would love to help you better view and stand up to your next audience.
