Beware People Will Judge You, Before You Even Open Your Mouth!
According to Jonathan Freeman Columbia University research people make split-second judgements about others. Others judge you within a 1/10th of a second! When giving a presentation or speaking in public it’s of the most importance you make a positive impact with the audience from the start
The first moments of your presentation or public speaking engagement are incredibly important. Jonathan Freeman’s research, often referred to as “thin-slicing,” suggests that people form rapid judgments based on minimal information.
This phenomenon is rooted in evolutionary psychology, where quick assessments helped our ancestors make split-second decisions about potential threats and opportunities.
How does this effect you well in the context of communicating with people or public speaking, what this means is that your audience is likely to form initial impressions of you almost instantly. Here are some additional tips to ensure a positive impact right from the start: #publicspeakingworkshop ##publicspeakingcourse #publicspeakingtraining
1. Know Your Audience:
Tailor your opening to the specific interests and needs of your audience. Demonstrating that you understand their concerns immediately captures their attention.
2. Practice Your Opening:
Rehearse your opening lines until you’re comfortable with them. Practice in front of a mirror or record yourself to identify areas for improvement.
3. Brief Introduction:
Provide a concise and relevant introduction about yourself, especially if your audience might not be familiar with you. This helps establish your credibility early on.
4. Confident Body Language:
Your body language communicates volumes. Maintain an open posture, avoid fidgeting, and use gestures that reinforce your message. Confident body language can convey authority and credibility. Let us show you how!
5. Dress Appropriately:
How you dress and your attire should align and be congruent with the context of your presentation and the expectations of your audience. Dressing professionally and appropriately can contribute to a positive impression.
6. Eye Contact:
Making eye contact can be overstated, the Importance of Establishing eye contact with your audience can’t be neglected. Because it builds a connection with your audience. It shows that you’re addressing them personally and that you’re confident in your message.
7. Vocal Tone and Pace:
Your voice is a powerful tool, so use it! 😁 Speak slowly, clearly and steady tone. Vary your pace to emphasize key points and maintain listener engagement.
8. Use Visuals Wisely:
If you’re using powerpoint slides or tother visuals Be sure that they enhance your message rather than take away from it! A slide that is cluttered with too much information or confusing will have a negative impact on the audience. And most likely start to lose your audience’s attention and interest.
9. Be Authentic:
For God’s sake BE YOURSELF! There’s only one of you and that uniqueness is what makes you special. Authenticity is key. It is attractive and relatable. Trying to present a persona that doesn’t match your natural demeanour can come across as not only insincere but have devasting results.
10. How to Embrace Nervousness:
Feeling nervous is normal, especially at the beginning. Acknowledge your nerves, take a deep breath, and channel that energy into enthusiasm for your topic.
Your nervous energy can actually help you deliver a more engaging and inspiring presentation. See our video: How Visualization helps high performers and public speakers like you!
11. When Appropriate use Humour
A well-placed, relevant joke or light-hearted comment can help break the ice and establish a positive atmosphere.
Self-deprecating humour is almost always a safe bet!
Remember, the goal is to establish trust and captivate your audience from the outset. While first impressions are swift, your entire presentation also matters.
Maintain a consistent level of engagement, clarity, and enthusiasm throughout to solidify the positive impression you’ve initially made.
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