"What
should I do with my hands when I'm presenting?" 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.
The next time you have to present, be aware of
what your hands are doing, so you can ensure they don’t distract your audience
and instead, help you convey confidence and communicate more effectively to
your audience.