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How to Become a Leader Who Does Not Bore People

What kind of leader are you?

By Vanessa MolinaPublished 4 years ago 5 min read
How to Become a Leader Who Does Not Bore People
Photo by Zac Durant on Unsplash

There are some leaders you can listen to for hours on end because you don't get bored at all, but there are also some opinion formers who, in no more than five minutes, manage to put even the most fierce coffee drinker to sleep.

In order not to fall into the trap of boring and unproductive speech, you should follow some of the tips gathered by Businessindiser.com.

According to an experiment by Maureen Murphy, 20 minutes is enough to make a comprehensive presentation. To test this theory, Murphy asked several adults to attend a 60-minute presentation.

The researcher wanted to see the differences in reaction for both presentations (20 minutes and 60 minutes, respectively). Murphy found that people were more interested in the version in which the presentation was divided into 20-minute segments; they can retain the information immediately.

Moreover, they remain in memory for one month from the date of presentation. When making a presentation in front of the audience, take 2–3 minute breaks to allow the absorption of information …

1. The human senses compete with each other  -  Keep in mind that the visual and auditory senses "compete." It is difficult for people to listen to what you say and interpret the words. Too many words spoil. To combat this congestion, use easy-to-remember visual slides - photos, charts, tables, etc. Of course, a presentation does not necessarily have to be accompanied by a visual element, if it is not necessary.

2. The human brain longs for the unknown - Research by the scholar Gregory Berns shows that the human mind seeks the unforeseen, longs for it. In a unique experiment, Berns used a computer-controlled device to pour water or fruit juice into people's mouths while scanning their brains. He found that the part of the brain that is active when people experience pleasant situations remains "in position" even in the event of unforeseen situations. Your presentation should be surprising. If you offer a slide show, insert a video clip to diversify the argument or activity relevant to it.

3. People get emotionally involved in your stories - When people hear the phrase "Let me tell you a story", they become very interested. When we listen to a story, we turn our full attention to the narrator. Use stories in your presentation to make the audience resonate emotionally. A good story is short, has a point of view, includes a positive character - the audience will care about it, and is relevant to your presentation.

4. People "read" each other in an instant - People need 1–2 seconds to make decisions about other people. People tagged you just before you started your presentation. It is inevitable. The first impression matters, so you have to get to the expected level. All eyes are on you. People take into account the introduction you will make and body language - the way you speak, the way you sit, the way you move, the look, the facial expressions, the emotions, the confidence, etc. Choose an expression and stick to it, correlate it with body language.

5. People interpret your positions and movements - During the presentation, people will pay attention to both its content and that of the performer. You need to avoid certain body positions. Here are some helpful tips:

  • He's not turned 45 degrees. Stand in front of the crowd to express authority and security
  • Do not use barriers, such as tables, in your way. People want to see you when you talk to them, otherwise, they won't trust you
  • Keep your head straight
  • Do not bend over a table, desk, chair when talking; stand straight
  • Don't shake your hands, you will look emotional, bored, or impatient to "get rid" of the audience

6. People imitate other people's emotions and expressions - People imitate what they see. If you smile, the audience will smile too; if you have energy, you will pass it on to the public. It is important to convey that passion to people, through speech and gestures. Feelings and emotions are contagious and people will follow you. 7. Hand movements translate into many messages - Many times, when we speak, we feel the need to gesture. No matter how much you use your hands in a speech, it is important to be careful what you express. Here are some helpful tips on hand movements:

  • When you keep your palms open (with your hands up) it means that you are asking for something from your audience
  • When you keep your palms open (with your hands down) it means that you are sure about an argument
  • Keeping your palms open at 45 degrees means you are sincere and open
  • Keeping your hands in front means you're insecure

- When you keep your hands on your hips, you look aggressive

  • If you exaggerate with the language of your hands, you will look downright agitated. Not indicated!

Also, be careful when giving a presentation in another country. In some states, hand gestures are interpreted in different ways. Study the culture that "hosts you" first. You don't want to offend anyone.

8. People want to feel safe when attending a presentation - It is imperative to create a comfortable atmosphere. The audience will feel good. People will listen to your speech, then ask questions, answer questions, make suggestions, interact with you. Your body language, facial expressions, and comments are the platforms through which you can make people feel good in their skin. Humor is a great way to relax, but not overdo it. If you want to involve the people gathered at a presentation in your activities, start with slow motion. Don't ask them to join you if they don't want to.

9. People appreciate those who admit their mistakes - First impressions mean everything. What if you fail? If you stumble upon a cable on stage? If you pull the computer out of the socket in the middle of the presentation? These are normal events. When something like this happens, there are three things you can do:

  • Ignore what happened and move on
  • Acknowledges what happened and asks the technical staff for explanations
  • He admits what happened and uses a joke to relax the situation
  • The best option? Last! Mistakes are human. The real test is how you can manage them.

10. In fact, mistakes help people to retain more information - By creating an environment in which people can make mistakes and learn from mistakes, you can populate a stimulating environment in which people will better retain information. In a 2011 study, Jonathan Downar found that when someone makes a mistake and tries again, the brain displays a problem-solving activity and that person is more careful in making decisions. How can you "write" mistakes in which people make mistakes and receive feedback?

  • Invite people to participate in various exercises and activities, from which they can learn
  • Includes in the presentation activities that do not necessarily have a positive or negative response - in which people express their own experiences and opinions
  • Invite people to work in small groups. It is less frustrating to make mistakes in front of 3 people than in front of a group of 25 people
  • Creates a relaxed environment in which people can try new things and make mistakes at will. Let them unfold!

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