Public speaking is a skill that combines language, emotions, and presence. It is not just about the words you choose. Also about the way, you deliver them. Your tone, gestures, and movements majorly contribute to how you engage with your listeners. Every detail counts. Even a simple gesture, like placing your hand in your pocket, can lead to discussions. This small habit raises the question: is putting hand in pocket bad for a speech?
Some interpret it as a sign of confidence and comfort. On the other hand, other believe it appears careless or unprofessional. This action may seem nothing, but it carries weight. It can either enhance your presence or divert your audience’s attention. Speakers often face dilemmas with such gestures, uncertain about how they will be viewed.
In this blog post, we will review the effects of this habit. Additionally, we will explore the importance of body language along with what gestures we should use during a speech. By grasping these elements, you will determine whether this gesture helps or hinders your presentation. So let’s uncover the reality and perfect the art of effective speaking!
Importance of Body Language in Public Speaking
Body language is important for success in public speaking. It affects how your audience connects with your message, and how engaged they feel. Even a well-prepared speech can fall short if your movements lack intention or expressiveness. Without a dynamic and open presence, your audience will not understand the essence of what you want to say.
For this purpose, there is a saying by Bhavesh Chhatbar, “If you want to find the truth, do not listen to the words coming to you. Rather see the body language of the speaker. It speaks the facts not audible”. Therefore, if you want to understand the real message behind what a speaker conveys, follow this tip:
Pay attention not just to their words, but also to their body language.
Your gestures during speeches and the act of putting your hand in your pocket can express more than mere words. When you communicate, your message is not only delivered through spoken language. Moreover, your body sends just as strong a message as your voice does. Facial expressions, posture, and eye contact shape how your audience interprets your message. If you are feeling anxious, your body might convey a different impression than what you aim to express.
Hand Gestures and Their Meaning
Most individuals use their hands to communicate from time to time. Some people express themselves more effectively through hand movements or by adding their hands into conversations. Others use sign language to visually share their ideas. Conversely, some hardly use their hands at all.
People who actively use hand gestures in public speaking are often seen as more energetic, and friendly. Those who use fewer hand movements usually come across as more analytical and logical. Meanwhile, too much gesturing might seem artificial. Therefore, finding the right balance between being too subtle and overly dramatic is important.
Perception vs Reality of Hand Gestures
When delivering speeches, people often pay attention to their hand gestures and how these might influence the audience. Common movements like pointing, nodding, or showing open palms can express confidence and clarity. However, subtle actions such as clasping hands or tapping fingers may indicate nervousness or discomfort, even if the speaker is not fully aware of them.
Another gesture is putting their hands in their pockets. While many think it shows confidence, it can actually give off a vibe of detachment or indifference. When hands are tucked away, the audience might perceive it as a lack of engagement or a reluctance to connect with them.
On the other hand, intentional hand gestures improve communication by highlighting essential points and making the delivery more engaging. They enable speakers to actively involve their audience, building a stronger sense of connection.
Signs you’re showing while Putting Hands in Pocket
People might feel like they are showing confidence or coolness by putting their hands in their pockets. However, believe me; it imposes many embarrassing impacts on your personality and on the audience. Some of these impacts are given below:
Keeping hands in pockets often indicates anxiety or self-doubt. It is a common gesture that people use to conceal discomfort or to avoid attracting attention to themselves in stressful situations.
Secondly hiding hands in pockets can demonstrate that a person is trying to protect himself or herself, either physically or emotionally. They might be shielding themselves from criticism or vulnerability.
Thirdly, when a person keeps their hands in their pockets, they may unintentionally come across as less confident. This gesture can make them appear passive and less assertive, which reduces their overall impact.
Hands in pockets can suggest a reluctance to fully engage in a conversation or connect with the audience. It can limit interaction and make communication less effective.
Using pocket gestures may reveal a fear of being judged. It often shows a desire to avoid being seen or challenged.
Best Hand Gestures to Master
It's common to overthink your hand movements while talking, worrying about what to do with your right hand versus your left. Instead of planning every gesture, focus on the feelings you want to express. This is especially important if you want to deliver a talk as powerful as a speech. Here are some important gestures for speeches that can help you communicate with confidence and clarity.
1. Steepling vs. Wringing
Steepling is a gesturing with hands often used by Steve Jobs to show confidence and knowledge. It involves bringing the fingertips of both hands together, spreading them slightly, and creating an arched shape. This gesture works great when you pause to think or want to emphasize a point. It naturally draws attention to your face and adds a calm energy to your presence. You can use it while standing or sitting. However, do not overdo it, as it might lose its impact.
On the other hand, wringing your hands, which means twisting or clasping them together, often signals nervousness or doubt. If you catch yourself doing this, try switching to steepling to project calmness and control.
2. Side Palms
When you extend your hand to the side, as if you are offering a handshake, it creates a bond with your audience. This gesture feels welcoming and helps you highlight key points. It encourages your audience to pay closer attention and fosters trust.
3. The Politician's Gesture
This gesture, commonly seen among speakers, involves placing your thumb on a closed fist while pointing. It comes across as confident without being overly aggressive. Another thing is the "okay" sign, which makes you seem thoughtful, focused, and determined. Both gestures are less likely to put off your audience compared to direct pointing.
4. Other Impactful Gestures
You can use many hand movements to improve your delivery, but keeping it simple often proves most effective. For instance, natural actions like gently waving, raising your hand for emphasis, or using your fingers to count points can keep your audience interested. By focusing on these easy-to-learn gestures, you will come across as more confident, relatable, and genuine in any speaking scenario.
Wrap up
Public speaking is more than words; it is about expressions, movements, and connecting with people. Every gesture you make, from small nods to bigger actions, shows your feelings and personality. Putting your hand in your pocket might look relaxed, but it can also seem nervous or uninterested. This small detail can change how the audience sees you. Therefore, it is important to understand body language for better communication. Using clear hand gestures can make your speech more memorable. For example, a confident steepling gesture can show strength, while open hands can build trust. These tips work in person and during online meetings, like on Zoom. They help keep your audience engaged, even through a screen.
Remember, great speakers mix their words with meaningful movements. Practice these tips, improve your gestures, and presentation design to own the stage. Whether in a meeting room, a Zoom call, or a TED Talk. You can capture attention and connect with people, one gesture at a time.
