HOW TO USE YOUR HANDS TO PROJECT CONFIDENCE DURING YOUR PITCH

Did you know that communication takes two forms -the verbal and non verbal? And of course when both conflict, the non verbal is (consciously or unconsciously) validated. Do you know how horrifying this can be? Imagine preparing the best presentation – world class type – and then mess it up by being fidgety or frowning or even showcasing fear! Why take the trouble to gather or face an audience (believe me, it’s not easy to do this) and then muddle it up by communicating the opposite of your intention?

Have you ever watched a Chinese movie that’s not translated yet you still watch it to the end? Why would you watch a movie that you don’t understand Jack of what they are saying? Because somehow, you can relate with shouts, facial expressions, body language and other tiny bits – this is non verbal communication doing its thing. Some of the action could be misunderstood, because the verbal and non verbal are supposed to go hand in hand (complement each other). But the fact remains that even with incomprehensible verbal form of communication; at least 50% of what’s going on can be correctly guessed.

Same thing applies when you are facing an audience that you hope will finance your dream (or get you employed) and you say all the powerful (expected) words but you seem to lose control of your hands, or your eyes darts everywhere terrifyingly – except your audience. Once they get the wrong signal from your body language and other tiny bits, whatever it is that you are saying dulls out and the non verbal suddenly gets a magnifying lens. This is horrifying; but like every other problem, has a solution.

 HBR has these useful tips on how to make that presentation a success.

When you are in front of an audience, you need to project confidence. But when you are nervous, your hands often flit about and fidget. Use one of these positions to keep your hands still. Practice in front of a mirror, then with friends, until it feels natural.

Hold the ball. Gesture as if you are holding a basketball between your hands. This movement, a Steve Jobs favourite, displays confidence and control, as if you have the facts at your fingertips.

Palms up. Turning your hands up indicates openness and honesty, and it shows that you are willing to connect with the people you are speaking to, whether it’s one person or a crowd of thousands.

Pyramid. Keep your hands still by clasping them together in a relaxed pyramid. Beware of overusing this position or pairing it with domineering or arrogant facial expressions. The idea is to show that you are relaxed, not smug.

Watching presentations and interviews could also help. Watch the masters do it and then try to replicate what they did until you can find your turf.  

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