Presenting With Impact

FameLab is looking for charismatic communicators in its hunt for the new public faces of UK science. So here we ask media presentation trainer Greg de Polnay to share his tips on what makes a successful public speaker.

Statistics can often be misleading. It is a fact, however, that in any presentation 55% of the listener's attention will be on the speaker's body language, 38% on their vocal energy and tone and only 7% on the actual content.

The importance of enthusiasm and preparation

We can be sure that when making presentations, most people do not consider their posture and voice, but focus mainly on the content. Yet it is frequently the case that successful speakers and presenters are remembered for their style, their voice, their mannerisms, their enthusiasm and above all their personality.

Facts and figures are brought alive for millions of TV viewers by the enthusiasm and expertise of our most distinguished presenters. Think of historian Dr David Starkey and scientist Professor Robert Winston, for example. We become involved in their programmes even though we may not be particularly knowledgeable on the subjects.

The vital tools of voice and body

Enthusiasm and preparation are the two most important ingredients for a good presenter, but on their own they are not enough. You also need to think about the tools you use to deliver your presentation – your voice and your body (or physicality).

Posture – how you stand – is vital for good presentation. Are you relaxed and poised, ready for anything? If you are relaxed and slumped you will be off balance, causing you to fidget, shift your weight from one foot to another or use inappropriate gestures. All of this can divert the listener's attention from the content. Stillness can exude knowledge and 'gravitas'; extraneous movement makes the listener aware of the speaker's idiosyncrasies rather than the message being conveyed.

The most important tool for delivering a message is the voice, and good posture is vital for this. Poor posture affects the breathing, which in turn will inhibit the free flowing of the voice and the vocal delivery. Practising correct breathing will help to support and release the voice, which will make the audience want to listen. If the voice is strained or constricted, apologetic, unsure or under-energised, the listener will have to work hard to hear the speaker. If they are not engaged, they may just switch off.