You probably heard Susan Boyle sing last week for Britain’s Got Talent, the British Isles’ version of American Idol. How many people, however, judged her the moment she took the stage? How many people made fun of her, laughed at her, and expected her to fail from her? Too many people.
However, upon opening her mouth to sing, the audience’s tone, amazement, and appreciation drastically changed in her favor.
Miss Boyle is a perfect example of why we should never judge a book by its cover, but her hearing was a perfect example of why we are judged by how we look.
This woman not only owns a wonderful instrument, but she displayed amazing stage presence. There are many talented voices, talented musicians, and talented comedians who will never be able to make a career in their chosen field because they lack presence.
You got it?
You may think that it is your words that will move your audience one way or another. But you are being judged on how you look when you walk to the lectern, as well as how you look when you greet your audience. Walking confidently with your head held high, making eye contact with your listeners, and smiling have an incredible impact on what happens after you open your mouth to speak.
This impact does not only affect your audience. It affects you too. The confidence you assume in your approach to the podium can help with the confidence you need to deliver your presentation or speech effectively.
Public speakers are ‘heard’ not only aurally but also visually. Therefore, the image you present before you begin “says” a lot about you.
While your audience may not be as shallow as the people who attend Britain’s Got Talent, audiences are still critical and the image you project can have a profound impact on your success in public speaking.
Unless you’re gifted like Susan Boyle is, don’t give your audience a chance to think negatively of you before you’ve had a chance to start.