Why Your Audience Needs to See You During a Presentation

You have probably heard the old adage, “You only get one chance to make a good impression.†First impressions are everything, and they can go a long way in engaging your audience. Your audience will decide in a matter of seconds whether or not they trust you on the stage and this is not determined by the words that come out of your mouth. Rather, it is determined by how you present yourself. When it comes to delivering a successful presentation, you should never underestimate the power of body language. Body language is the way in which a speaker communicates with the audience without the use of spoken words. It’s the combination of things like facial expressions, hand gestures, and body movements that convey a particular message to your audience. Body language is a powerful tool that can make or break your presentation. So, as you prepare for your next presentation by putting together the perfect presentation template, don’t forget that your body language is the key to presentation success…and this can only happen if the audience can see you. 

They Need to See Your Eyes

If there is one simple thing you can do to improve your skills as a presenter, it’s sustained, meaningful eye contact with your audience. You want to be sure you are close enough to your audience to look directly at them. A deliberate look in the eye conveys to the audience how much you care about their thoughts and it creates a bond between you and the listener. Audience engagement is the key to delivering a meaningful message and this can only happen through meaningful eye contact. 

Your Body Language Can Convey Confidence

Have you ever spoken to someone who averts their eyes every time they talk or fidgets with their hands when they are speaking? These gestures and body movements send the message that they are nervous or uncomfortable. It’s tough to trust someone as a credible source when they act in this way. The same is true when a speaker hides behind a podium during their entire presentation. It’s difficult to connect with the audience and win them over when you avoid being seen. If you truly want to convey confidence and credibility, you need to step out front and center and let the audience see you. Through your hand gestures, body movements, and eye contact, you will have the power to exude confidence and draw the audience in until they are hanging on your every word. 

It Establishes a Connection

It’s tough to connect with someone you can’t see. It’s even harder to keep the audience’s attention. If the audience sees you, however, they are more likely to participate when they see you scanning the crowd, smiling, and interacting with them. You have the ability to transform your audience from passive listeners to active participants by engaging them through your body language. 

It Creates Clarity

Facial expressions can do wonders for explaining information to your audience and keeping them interested. When your audience can see you, they are able to see when you might be displaying humor, sadness, frustration, or excitement. Your facial expressions and body language are great tools for clarifying your feelings and conveying your message. 

Overall, your audience needs to see you in order to establish a connection, build trust, remain engaged, and understand what you are trying to say. Body language is as important as the words you speak, so make the most of your presentation by stepping forward and letting audience members see you throughout your presentation.