08 Feb proper presentation pressure: Under-inflated; post #4, Movement is good, unless it’s not!
Movement is Good, Unless it’s Not
As a Presenter/Speaker I genuinely want what I share to be impactful to those listening. So, as I seek to grow in my craft, I have come to discover that presenting/speaking can be similar to tires in that both can become over-inflated or under-inflated often creating a negative impact.
In previous posts I have shared examples of how a Speaker may over-inflate her/his presentation by having a misguided attitude. This includes: K.I.S.S. https://shawnritchey.com/rethinking-k-i-s-s/ Forgetting the Value of 1, https://shawnritchey.com/forgetting-the-value-of-1/ The Improv Myth https://shawnritchey.com/proper-presentation-pressure-post-3-the-improv-myth/
Today, I’d like to consider under-inflation, or misguided actions, as a snare Presenters/Speakers should avoid, so the impact of our message is not derailed.
Movement is good, unless it’s not…
When speaking, static is fine, and even powerful, for a short period. But rarely is static good for an entire presentation. Movement can add a dynamic quality to any presentation. But movement without purpose will often derail a presentation of its potency by creating distraction for the audience. Presenters who know the importance of movement but are not trained in the art of moving often will default to random movement such as a two-step – shuffling side to side – or pacing – resembling a caged animal. The non-purposeful movement becomes distracting for the audience, thereby negatively impacting the message. Though non-purposeful movement may have its origin in being novice or nervous, if not consciously addressed, it will become a bad habit.
So, create a plan. We should consider specific movements utilizing the entire presentation stage including when to sit if appropriate and possible. Strategic moments of where we direct our focus can also deepen the impact our message. Then practice. Let us not fall prey to the Improv-Myth https://shawnritchey.com/proper-presentation-pressure-post-3-the-improv-myth/ and just “wing it”. There is value in practicing our physical presentation just as we do our verbal presentation; even video-tape practice sessions. Then we will know when movement is good, unless it’s not. In the next installment of under-inflating presentations through misguided actions, we will consider when/how we Upstage the Message.
Shawn Ritchey L.I.V.E. is available as a One-on-One consultant for proper pressure of your presentations. Let me know how I can help https://shawnritchey.com/contact/
This article is featured on OneAccord Blog: https://www.oneaccord.co/blog/great-presentations-movement-is-good-unless-its-not
Shawn Ritchey L.I.V.E. Corporate Storyteller https://shawnritchey.com/corporate-storyteller/
Shawn Ritchey L.I.V.E. Inspirational Storyteller https://shawnritchey.com/storyteller/
In the next installment of under-inflating presentations through misguided actions, we will consider when/how we Upstage the Message.
Hope & Peace to you.
Shawn