Tips on projecting a confident image
Eye contact is important

Whether a person is meeting one-on-one with clients, interacting with colleagues or delivering a formal presentation, appearing confident and credible can raise one's effectiveness.

Learning how posture, voice, eye contact and other nonverbal signals influence an audience's perception can put the speaker in control of the image being projected.

Here are hints on projecting a more professional, credible image.

Body Language +Stand with weight evenly distributed over both feet with head level. This will help the speaker appear stable, levelheaded and straight forward. +An open posture and fluid hand gestures will help one appear comfortable and conversational. Hands that are clasped or stiff can look too formal or disengaged.

Voice +The stronger the volume, the more confident a speaker will sound. +Crisp articulation demonstrates intelligence and attention to detail. +Beware of a misplaced upward inflection, when statements sound like questions. Using the lower pitch range will help a speaker sound more commanding.

Eye Contact +In a group, hold eye contact for three to five seconds per person. A speaker will appear more conversational and better able to read the audience. +Never let any part of the room go too long without some attention. A speaker who keeps the entire audience engaged will look inclusive and authoritative.

This story is provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.