The Power of Silence in Presentations

Most presenters spend the majority of their time preparing what to say and how to say it. This is certainly important because you obviously want to clearly communicate your information. However, it is important that speakers not overlook the power and importance of silence. Silence is one of the most valuable tools we have when it comes to public speaking. It can be used to highlight information and to emphasize key points. It is also an incredible way for the speaker to command the stage. Many speakers feel the need to cram their presentation with as much information as possible and actually fear silence. But, silence is golden for those who know how to use it properly.  

1. A Pause Can Help You Gather Your Thoughts

Silence allows you to gather your thoughts if you have forgotten where you are in your presentation or what you plan to say next. Rather than filling this space with filler words like “um†and “uh,†you can simply pause and take a few breaths. If you pause, smile, and look confident, you can regain your thoughts while looking like a pro to your audience. 

2. Pauses Help Control Pacing

The best speakers understand how to use pauses to control their pacing. You can silence to slow down and control the timing of your speech. If you talk nonstop without ever taking a break, chances are you will rush through your presentation and the audience will feel like they were rushed too. A speaker who talks quickly not only appears nervous, but makes it difficult for the audience to follow along. Pauses can help you regulate your pace while also giving your audience time to absorb the information. 

3. A Pause Can Add Emphasis

Sometimes powerful statements can be even more dramatic by adding a pause after the statement. Consider pausing after making the main point of a story or sharing a sobering statistic. Silence during these moments give your listeners a chance to absorb what you’ve said. 

4. Silence Engages Your Audience

Contrary to popular belief, silence does not kill a presentation but rather enhances it greatly. When used at the right times, pauses boost the impact of what the speaker is saying. Tactical silence can actually draw the audience in and allow them to connect with your words.

5. Silence Demonstrates Confidence

Silence can be used strategically to show your audience that you are in charge. You can win over your audience and they will find you a credible source simply because of your calmness and confidence. To that point, great speakers don’t always have to look polished and perfect. Occasionally stopping to recover your thoughts or consider what to say next is a great display of genuine character and this is what makes you likable to an audience.