I really don't go out when I'm in Cleveland no more. I just stay in my room," he said. "Ain't nothing to do in Cleveland. Have you been there?
The scourge spreads to basketball. This time DeShawn Stevenson trash talks my home town.
“What do I do with my hands when I’m speaking?” is a common question that I hear when I’m teaching public speaking. Your hands form an important part of your non-verbal communication, or body language, and can help you convey confidence and communicate more effectively to your audience.
Here are 5 tips for what to do with your hands:
1. Be Aware of What Your Hands Are Doing
The first step in preventing your hands from distracting your audience is to become conscious of what your hands are doing. Are you cracking your knuckles, playing with your pen or twisting your note cards? I’ve seen speakers do each of these actions and they usually don’t realize they’re doing it. Focus on your hands while practicing, watch yourself on video or ask for feedback from a trusted colleague.2. Use the “Neutral Position”
When not gesturing, your hands should be in the neutral position – hanging loosely at your sides. They should not be jammed in your pockets, folded across your chest or clasped behind your back.3. Keep Your Hands Empty
There is no need to hold a pen, rubber band or paper clip while speaking. It’s easier and less distracting to gesture with empty hands. If you must hold your notes, the PowerPoint remote or a microphone, refer to point #1 and be aware of what your hands are doing with that item.4. Relax Your Hands
I’ve seen speakers clench their hands into fists or grip the sides of the podium, neither of which conveys a relaxed confidence. Make sure that any nervousness or anxiety you may be feeling is not expressed by your hands.5. Gesture to Support Your Words
Simple, natural gestures will support and visually illustrate your words. For example, use your hands to show distance traveled or open both arms wide to show that you are welcoming the audience.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gilda Bonanno is a speaker, trainer and coach who helps people from all walks of life improve their communication and presentation skills. Receive a FREE Special Report, “Six Mistakes to Avoid in Public Speaking, So Your Presentation Sparkles” by visiting http://gildabonanno.com/newsletter.aspx and entering your email address. You’ll also be subscribed to Gilda’s free twice-monthly e-newsletter containing practical tips you can use immediately to improve your communication and presentation skill
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There were two great orators from ancient Mediterranean: Demosthenes the Greek and Cicero the Roman.
It was said that when Cicero spoke, people exclaimed, “Great speech. Wonderful message. I couldn’t agree with you more.” And they showered him with accolades, adoration and standing ovations.
It was said that when Demosthenes spoke, people shouted, “Let Us March!”
Did you notice the difference?
Read the whole post for an application to our time and a powerful lesson in the use of logic and emotion.