Why You Should Never Lean on Your Lectern

Why do so many speakers lean on the lectern while giving a speech or PowerPoint presentation?

After giving the same talk for the umpteenth time, some of them get complacent. They start ascribing to "The Lazy Way of Giving Speeches." But if you are slumping over a lectern, you are diffusing the energy in your body - and in your presentation.

The only person who has any excuse for doing that is the CEO of her own company. Her company, her rules. In essence, she doesn’t have to impress anyone. She signs the checks… so the rank and file will be hanging on every word.

But that’s NOT the case for any speaker who is trying to make a good impression on colleagues, an employer, or prospective clients.

Remember: You are being judged on your entire presentation. Your body language, the way you speak, and how you articulate your message. Leaning against the lectern leads your audience to believe that you might be tired… that you don’t care about what you’re saying… or that you’re not being truthful. And all these impressions could make your audience discount your words - or just plain stop listening.

So leave the lectern in a corner. Don’t be afraid to move around while you speak. You’ll increase your energy and add enthusiasm to your words. And your audience is sure to listen with more interest.

[Ed. Note: Like it or not, if you've ever had to speak to a group of colleagues, employees, or clients, you are a public speaker. With the help of public speaking expert Peter Fogel, you can learn how to get the best response from your audience. Get the details here.]

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