Mastering non-verbal language on stage: voice, gaze, gestures and posture.

The Voice: The Instrument to Captivate and Emphasize

A great presentation is not only based on words; the voice is a fundamental tool of nonverbal communication that, when used correctly, helps us to keep the audience's attention and emphasize the points we wish to highlight. To achieve this, it is crucial to master several elements.

Intonation is vital; a monotonous speech is the quickest route to boredom, so we must vary the tone, using energy for exciting points and slowing the pace at more serious moments to enhance expressiveness.

The key to an adequate and sustained volume without damaging the throat is diaphragmatic breathing, that is, breathing from the abdomen to project the voice instead of shouting.

This allows us to be heard without getting tired, something fundamental when nerves already affect our breathing.

Finally, good articulation and diction ensure that our message is understood without difficulty, projecting an image of professionalism and clarity.

The Look: Creating Connection and Confidence

Eye contact is one of the most powerful tools for connecting with the audience and conveying confidence.

It is essential to face the audience from the front, looking from the left to the right and from the front rows to the back of the room.

This practice not only allows you to convey confidence and interest, but also creates a sense of closeness and empathy with the audience.

We must avoid at all costs short and restless glances, which denote nervousness, and also the mistake of fixing your eyes on a single person (such as a friend or acquaintance), as this will make the rest of the audience feel excluded and disconnected. An honest and well-distributed gaze is a sign of control and sincerity.

The Language of the Hands: Supportive and Reinforcing Gestures

Hand gestures are an essential component of our staging and should always be used to support and reinforce the message we are conveying, both in terms of content and emotion.

The golden rule is that the hands should always be visible to the audience. Hiding them in pockets or behind the back conveys insecurity and a feeling that we want to hide something. Showing our hands, on the other hand, is a universal symbol of openness and sincerity.

We should also avoid crossed arms, which create a defensive barrier, and clenched fists, which are perceived as an aggressive gesture.

Calm and natural gestures, flowing in tune with our speech, will project an image of security and dominance.

Body Posture: Projecting Security and Relaxation

Our body posture constantly communicates our mood and confidence level.

The general recommendation is to always maintain an upright but relaxed posture, with a straight back, head held high and shoulders free of tension.

If the stage allows it, it is very convenient to move naturally through the space, avoiding both the immobility of a statue and quick and nervous movements.

Whether we are standing