Last night, OTBKB friend and fave, Jezra Kaye, an executive coach and corporate speech writer, watched a panel discussion on PBS about Governor Spitzer’s recent travails. While the panelists—four men and one women—were lively and knowledgable, something troubled her: the panel’s one woman, who was more than holding her own in the dialogue, seemed to physically fade from view whenever she wasn’t actually speaking.
"Her small physical size, the colors she was wearing (soft neutrals that flattered up close but faded in a group shot) and her resting body language (hands placed demurely in her lap) all conspired to give a small impression, at odds with this woman’s actual power," she writes in an email I got this morning.
According to Kaye, even if you’re a small person, you can take up your fair share of visual space by following these simple tips:
1. Wear "power" colors. There’s a reason why Hillary Clinton favors red. Strong, solid colors catch the eye and proclaim your confidence—and importance.
2. Put your hands on the table. If you’re sitting at a conference table (as last night’s panelists were), forget your mother’s etiquette advice! Putting your hands in your lap makes your shoulders slump. Resting them on the table squares your upper body and makes you look alert and ready to respond.
3. Think big. It’s amazing how much we control what other people see in us. If you feel or think that you’re taking up space, you’re much more likely to appear substantial. (The same is true in reverse for large people who project a sense of lightness and agility.)
The trick is to apply these insights in a way that’s right for you.
Jezra can help you improve your presentation skills. She is offering a workshop on Fun Presentation Skills for Women on April 3rd, 2008.
Enjoy getting in touch with the strength of your feminine side, while learning how to prepare and deliver a powerful speech for any occasion. From a new business pitch to a panel presentation to a “chat” with your kids about their curfew, you’ll learn how to:
* Focus and organize your ideas
* Be your best onstage
* Persuade an audience
* Have fun!
You’ll also learn the 5-Point Presentation Plan—a simple way to instantly create a professional-sounding presentation or statement on any subject.
WHEN: Thursday, April 3rd/ 6:30-8:30PM
WHERE: In Good Company Workplaces, 16 W. 23rd Street, 4th floor, NYC
REGISTER: by emailing Jezra@JezraKaye.com
General Public: $39 in advance/ $49 at the door
IGC Members: $29 in advance / $39 at the door
This workshop is limited to 20 participants, so sign up now!