Show Your Audience Your Passion

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Excitement is contagious. If people in the audience sense you care about something, they are more likely to care too. Here are three tactics for winning over your listeners:

  • Use an animated voice. Vary the volume of your voice so your emotion comes through. Whisper at appropriate moments or rise to a crescendo to drive a point home.
  • Match your facial expressions. The expression on your face reinforces your message. Listeners want to see — not just hear — your passion. Make eye contact and don’t be afraid to smile or laugh, when appropriate and genuine.
  • Make gestures. A fist can reinforce confidence and certitude. Waving a hand or pointing can help draw attention.

Adapted from “Learning Charisma” by John Antonakis, Marika Fenley, and Sue Liechti.