Confidence comes from within, but it is certainly portrayed on the outside. If you don’t look confident, even if you feel it, how is anyone going to know that you know what you are doing? It may seem kind of silly, but if you don’t look confident, people aren’t going to believe you’re an expert in your field, and they won’t buy from you. Of course you want people to buy from you, so confidence is key. Here are two ways to look confident (and hopefully feel that way, too).
Speak Slowly and Precisely
Though people who speak quickly usually just have a lot to say in one swoop, and it may mean they know what they’re talking about, people don’t actually perceive it that way. If you are trying to get your point across to someone, speak slowly, and plan your pauses appropriately. Rushing your points just makes you look like you want a sale, and if you can keep a natural conversation pace, it won’t just look like you’re rattling off the same sales pitch you did yesterday.
Firm Handshake
It’s very important you stand tall and walk with your shoulders back, but if your handshake is limp and clammy, then it’s already going to be hard to win over your audience. If you are walking into a huge audience, you are obviously not going to shake everyone’s hand. However, if you’re only presenting to handful of people, meet everyone’s eyes when you shake their hands and make sure it’s a firm, warm handshake.
