When you speak in front of an audience, your listeners judge you and your message based on three criteria. Garr Reynolds describes what these are and how to present yourself convincingly in his bestseller *Zen or the Art of Presentation * – the definitive reference book for professional presenting and design. We have summarized his insights on the topic of "self-presentation" for you in five key points.

Stage presence

To ensure the content of your presentation resonates with your audience, you need to connect with them. They will evaluate your stage presence based on the following characteristics:

• Your appearance
• Their movements
• Your vote

Building on this basis of assessment, Reynolds gives helpful tips on how to present yourself well.

1. Appropriate clothing

How should you dress for your presentation? The rule of thumb is to dress rather formally and businesslike. Of course, your clothing must be appropriate for the organization and the occasion. But generally, it's better to dress up rather than too casually, because a formal appearance in a business suit can easily be toned down, for example, by removing the jacket. On the other hand, an outfit that's too casual is difficult to dress up later.

2. Purpose-oriented movements

Avoid staying in one place. Instead, move slowly and with good posture to different parts of the room/stage. Pause to emphasize your point. Then move to another part of the stage and perform the next point. When standing, your feet should be comfortably and firmly planted, shoulder-width apart. Keep your movements slow and convey a relaxed, natural image.

3. Direction of view: Audience

Always keep your eyes on the audience. Even when pointing at the screen, position yourself so that your shoulders are facing the listeners. After a brief glance at the screen, your forward-facing shoulders will automatically cause you to turn your head back towards the audience.

4. Maintain eye contact

Maintain eye contact with the audience. Avoid reading from scripts and notes – they make eye contact with the listeners difficult and can make you appear insecure or unprepared. With a larger audience, single out individuals in different parts of the room, even at the back, and look them in the eye during your presentation. Those sitting next to the person you are looking at will feel that you are looking at them as well.

5. Energetic voice

If you are truly passionate about your presentation topic, this enthusiasm will be reflected in your voice and will captivate your audience. Murmuring is just as taboo as shouting. While the former makes you appear timid or risks you not being understood, the latter ruins your intonation. For audiences of more than 50 people in larger venues, you should use a microphone. Headband and headset microphones are particularly recommended to ensure you are heard clearly. The microphone tip is positioned directly next to your mouth and is barely noticeable to the audience.

We hope that these tips will help you convince your audience of yourself and your message, and we wish you every success for your next appearance.