How to Use Gestures and Facial Expressions Effectively in Presentations

Many presenters spend the majority of their time preparing what to say during their presentation. In doing so, they fail to pay attention to their body language and how it can impact their presentation. The truth is, body language can be the difference between a dull presentation and a dynamic one. Your gestures and facial expressions can greatly affect how your audience perceives and responds to your speech. Here we will take a look at how to use your body language to enhance your message and make the most of your presentation. 

Why Gestures and Facial Expressions Matter

Gestures and facial expressions are part of your nonverbal communication, which accounts for more than half of the impact of your message. It helps to establish rapport, credibility, and emotion with your audience. By using gestures and facial expressions effectively, you can make your presentation more memorable and engaging. 

1. Find a Neutral Place for Your Hands

Many presenters find it difficult to know what to do with their hands when they are nervous. They end up fidgeting, crossing their arms, gripping the lectern, or putting their hands in their pockets, all of which are signs of nervousness. Instead, focus on finding a comfortable resting position such as letting your hands relax by your side or using them to add emphasis to your points. This will help you appear more confident and at ease. 

2. Use Gestures to Create Visual Imagery

Your hands can be an effective prop throughout your presentation to help the audience visualize what you are saying. For example, if profits rose over the last quarter, lift your hands up to show that. If you are encouraging your audience to work together, reach out with your hands and pull them back in to demonstrate. Your hand gestures should align with what you are saying and when used properly, can really enhance your message and make your presentation more engaging. 

3. Let Your Face Tell the Story

There is a reason that a face-to-face meeting is more effective than over the phone. When it comes to interacting with others, our facial expressions help tell our story. They help us express emotion, emphasize key points, and connect with our audience. Keep this in mind when giving a presentation. Presenting with a blank face is like talking in a monotone voice. Things like raising your eyebrows, widening your eyes, and giving a smile can make a huge difference and set the tone for your presentation. If your facial expressions fall in line with your words, the information you are presenting will come across more clearly and you will appear more sincere. 

4. Make Eye Contact

Eye contact is one of the most important elements of good communication. When you make eye contact with your audience, it makes the presentation feel more personal and it allows you to connect with the audience on a deeper level. Throughout your presentation, try to make eye contact with as many people as you can, as prolonged eye contact can be a powerful mode of communication.