Body language. The hands

Body language plays an incredibly important role in our communication. Notice how we use our hands to express emotions, communicate our ideas and even to show when we are uncomfortable.

During this session, we're going to explore how our hands have the power to communicate a lot without the need to resort to so many words.

Here are some specifics about body language and the use of hands in quality presentations:

• Openness and confidence: Keep your palms visible and open. This communicates openness, honesty and confidence. Avoid crossing your arms, as this could be perceived as defensive or closed.

• Captivating movements: Use controlled and captivating hand movements to emphasize key points of your presentation. Gestures should be natural and complement what you are saying, not distract.

• Control of space: Use your hands to control the space you are in. Broad gestures can be useful for pointing toward the screen or emphasizing important details. However, avoid overly exaggerated movements.

• Simple gestures: Use simple, concrete gestures that reinforce your messages. For example, hold up a finger to list points and use pincer gestures to show size or distance.

• Avoid nervousness: If you tend to feel nervous in your hands, practice techniques to control it. Maintain conscious control over gestures and avoid fidgety or repetitive movements.

• Eye contact: Combine gestures with direct eye contact with your audience. This establishes a stronger connection and makes your gestures even more effective in communication.

Including real objects in your presentations, especially when demonstrating how a product works, is extremely beneficial. Instead of using words and graphics, holding or manipulating objects as you speak makes a much more direct connection between the abstract idea and something concrete.

This proximity between the object and your explanation makes it easier for the audience to quickly understand how it works and the benefits it offers.

The body language signals that are manifested through the use of the hands cover several aspects:

• Distraction or discomfort: Hand manipulation, such as ringing or touching nearby objects, often reflects a state