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Anxious for help, he attended a workshop led by Cara Hale Alter, founder and principal trainer for Speechskills LLC, a communication training firm.
Alter spotted familiar culprits: weak volume, little eye contact and stiff body posture. Equipped with a video camera and 15 years of experience, Alter coached Michael to align his nonverbal signals with his message, helping him to project a more professional, credible image. Here are hints on how you can, too:
Body Language
• Stand with your weight evenly distributed over both feet, with your head level. This will help you to appear stable, level-headed and straightforward.
• An open posture and fluid hand gestures will help you to appear comfortable and conversational. Hands that are clasped or stiff can look too formal or disengaged.
Voice
• In general, the stronger your volume, the more confident you'll sound.
• Crisp articulation demonstrates intelligence and attention to detail.
• Beware of a misplaced upward inflection-that's when your statements sound like questions. Using the lower pitch range of your voice will help you to sound more commanding.
Eye Contact
• In a group, hold eye contact for three to five seconds per person. You'll appear more conversational and you'll be able to better read your audience.
• Never let any part of the room go too long without some attention from you. By keeping the entire audience engaged, you'll look inclusive as well as authoritative.
In the new DVD Speaking with Credibility and Confidence, Alter defines and demonstrates the specific skills she covers in her workshops-skills that may help you to create a more professional image.
The DVD outlines what it takes to be intentionally effective, so you can look
your best even if you're thinking on your feet, even if the stakes are high,
even if your adrenaline is running. You can order this 30-minute DVD at
www.speaking-workshops.com. Does your body speak your language?
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