OVERVIEW
To be perceived as authentic (PACT), the different levels of communication must work together effectively:
- Let’s start with presence:
- Be aware of your body language.
- Avoid common quirks (such as shifting from one leg to the other, cowboy posture, or crossing legs).
- Optimal posture: legs hip-width apart, knees slightly bent, shoulders back, gaze straight ahead and keep gestures between your hips and chest, stronger or more subtle depending on your personality
- Always remember the importance of your appearance:
- Dress according to your company's standards.
- For women: Avoid being excessive with elaborate jewelry, heavy lipstick or high heels, etc. Dress discreetly and appropriately for the circumstances.
- For men: In addition to appropriate business attire, pay attention to details (such as proper tie length, appropriate shoes, no sweat marks on your shirt).
- Then there's your character:
- Likeability comes about subconsciously and cannot be influenced. But you can counteract unfavorable prejudices.
- Before starting the presentation, interact with the participants and make small talk.
- Make sure to smile regularly, especially at the beginning and end.
- Go into the presentation with a positive attitude.
- And finally there's the question of tone:
- Articulate slowly and clearly.
- Avoid filler words (such as "actually", "quite") and foreign words/jargon.
- Use short sentences.
- Address the audience according to their type ("Red": brief and benefits-oriented, "Green": personal, "Blue": objective).
- Repeatedly address the participants by name.
