Public Speaking Tips
Body Language 5
FACIAL EXPRESSIONS
"Compassion is the ultimate and most meaningful
embodiment of emotional maturity.
It is through compassion that a person achieves the highest peak and
the deepest reach in his
or her search for self-fulfillment."
Arthur Jersild
Your Face Speaks A Thousand Words
There are different variations on it, but the age-old maxim is true: "Your face speaks a thousand words."
Professional public speakers know how to give their audience a special look, a side-ways glance, or simply a raised eye brow and they elicit laughter, meaning and rapport.
Being expressive, using your face to maximum advantage, is a very useful tool in getting your message across. This skill also allows you to use less words, to show emotion and to send a message directly to your audience's minds and hearts.
Practice Being Expressive
As a public speaker you must be aware of how to use your facial expressions and create ones that work for you. This is especially important if your audience is a long way from the stage. The further away from you they are, the more expressive you can be!
If possible, look at a mirror when you are practicing or rehearsing your speech. Try showing happiness, sadness, anger, fear, disgust, surprise and love.
Match Your Expression to Your Message
Be aware of any artificial, unfriendly, or deadpan expressions you may be making. Start including facial expressions that support your stories and reflect your emotions.
For example:
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arching eyebrows – when you are surprised or questioning
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frowning – when you are moody, disapproving or concerned.
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grimacing – when you are fearful, in pain or anxious
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smiling - when you are happy, pleased with the situation or circumstance. etc. etc.
All facial expressions are related to emotions. Professional speakers practice their body language and expressions to accompany their stories and make their message memorable, as well as believable.
Extra Assistance
We recommend you join our Public Speaking Course, or a local drama group where you can practice and get further advice on showing facial expressions.
More Body Language Techniques:
Charmaine Burke
Art of Communicating ©