The following comes from TJ Walker’s upcoming book “The Wisdom of Your Audience”. Consistently, the worst advice speakers and presenters get, comes from everyone who is NOT your audience. The following gives examples of some of the WORST advice people are often given. It is followed by the advice of your audience. Listen to them. They are your true judge and jury.

Should I stand behind the lectern while giving my presentation?

Your Director of Corporate Communications: “Yes, stand behind the lectern. It will make you look presidential.”

Your Director of Public Affairs: “Yes, stand behind the lectern because it will allow you to place your speech text so that no one will notice it.”

You: “Thanks goodness for the lectern! Now, I’ll have something to grab on to with my hands so that no one will see them flying around uncontrollably. Now, no one will see my knees knocking together. Now I can anchor myself and look rock solid.”

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Your Audience: “Why are you afraid of us? Why do you need a barrier between yourself and us, the audience? It’s not the end of the world if you want to stand behind a lectern, but it makes you seem scared, almost like you are afraid we are going to throw rotten vegetables at you. You don’t have to walk around the room and gesture. You can stand stiffly in one spot if you want. But you are going to make it that much easier for us to fall asleep. Is that really what you want? Get out from behind the lectern; it is the training wheels of speakers.”