Confidence and Nonverbal Cues

Traits of Confident People

• Comfortable in any room
• Smooth, broad gestures
• Good posture, right chin and eye direction
• Strong, controlled walking motion
• High degree of eye contact, less reluctance to look around

Key Examples

• Helen Mirren: Struggled initially with walking onto a scene
• Colin Powell: Mastery due to knowledge and experience, statesman qualities
• Jane Goodall: Commands rooms quietly
• Cary Grant: Became confident by emulating high-status individuals

Developing Confidence

• Importance of Gestures: Looser, smoother, and purposeful
• Temporal Control: Command of time, pacing answers and movement
• Voice and Cadence: Powerful speech techniques, avoiding 'uptalk'
• Practice: Rehearsing, reflecting on personal speech and gestures

Practical Exercises

• Practicing saying “no” confidently
• Rehearsing speeches, focusing on pacing and intonation
• Modifying gestures for more authoritative communication

Overcoming Fear of Public Speaking

• Acknowledge fear
• Master your material
• Rehearse in advance
• Warm-up techniques (e.g., leaning against a wall)

Growth and Mastery

• Recognize that confidence is developed, not innate
• Encouragement and achievements boost confidence
• Extend boundaries for self-growth
• Confidence can be nurtured regardless of physical limitations
• Knowing your material thoroughly aids in confident presentation