During public speaking training sessions clients regularly ask me, “What do I do with my hands when I’m speaking to a live audience?”
When preparing for any form of public speaking some people feel like their hands become foreign attachments at the end of their arms.
There is a lot of advice online about the best way to gesture when speaking to a live audience.
I think much of that advice is over complicated.
So here are my 3 “handy hints” (excuse the pun) when it comes to using your hands effectively during public speaking.
Don’t overthink it
When you deliver a presentation or a speech your hands are an important part of the communication process – just as when you speak normally.
My number one piece of advice is to use your hands like you would in everyday conversation.
Keep your hands in front of your body and make gestures that reflect what you are saying.
Now, public speaking is not miming so you don’t have to act out every sentence! Just let your thoughts and words guide your gestures. For example if you are discussing a surge in numbers … gesture up. It is that simple.
Hands out of pockets
There was a period a few years ago when broadcast journalists started to put their hands in their pockets when reporting live on television.
Perhaps they thought they were giving the impression of being relaxed on camera. But to me a reporter with their hands in pockets sends a message of disinterest and disrespect.
The same applies when presenting to a live audience. Keep your hands out of your pockets otherwise the audience might think you are hiding something, or simply don’t care.
By my side
If you really are feeling distracted by your hands you can just put them down by your sides.
Not static like a soldier, but if you relax your arms and hands then usually some small natural movement will follow.
The best thing you can do to feel authentic with your hand movements and overall body language is to speak to your audience like you are are speaking to someone one-on-one.
And if you need more help with your public speaking delivery I can help. Please get in touch at emily@emilyrice.com.au for more information on one-on-one and group training options.