Body Language can better or betray us.  No truer words ever spoken or written.

Anyone with a Fear of Public Speaking knows they simply DO NOT KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH THEIR HANDS or other body parts.

There is the famous fig leaf that men like to use – “guarding their loins.”

Women have a tendency to hug themselves or wring their hands – all give away signs of nervousness.

What should you do with your hands when speaking?

Easy – let them hang loosely at your side until you need them.

If you have a Fear of Public Speaking, I realize it sounds much easier than it is.

All gestures should be simple and natural.  This takes time, practice and sometimes a little coaching.

Body Language to Embrace when learning how to Overcome the Fear of Public Speaking:

• Open palms – when we show our palms the audience subliminally interprets this as open and honest. Think of looking at someone with a closed fist – that is never a good sign!

Always begin with a smile. Show your audience you are happy to be there. A smile is a smile from Singapore, Sydney to Seattle – we all like to see someone who is happy to see us.

• Hand to heart – Often you will see speakers say something like “I love America” and when they do the touch their hearts. This sends a subliminal message that they actually do love America. Politicians are schooled in this and if you pay attention, they all do it way too often.

Every now and again in your speech or talk it will really convince your audience of your conviction and sincerity.

“I trust and love this product.” (Hand to heart.)