Gestures

A common myth about public speaking is that you shouldn't speak with your hands. Nothing could be further than the truth. Most of us express ourselves in conversation by using some hand movement. Imagine telling a story and not being able to move your hands. The amount of hand movement will be determined by your culture. Keep your gestures high and above the waist.

Hands that are below the waist will make you look tentative. You can count off several items on your fingers. (point 1, point 2, point 3). Create pictures with your hands. Practice using gestures by showing these concepts with your hands: narrow/wide, tall/short, little/big, open/close, right/left, behind/in front. For a large stage, use wide, sweeping gestures. They will feel exaggerated to you but will look good to the audience. For small board rooms use gestures closer to your body. Gestures release nervous energy, and will make you look dynamic and confident.

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