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.

What should I do with my hands?

Your Speech Coach: “Keep one hand in your pocket at all times and you will be less distracting.”

Your Public Relations Chief: “Place both hands on the lectern in front of you. That way they won’t be distracting.”

Your Webcast Technical Adviser: “Hold your hands together in front of you. That way they won’t be distracting.”

You: “Maybe I’ll hold a pen in my hands to keep myself calm. This will make ME feel better.”

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Your Audience: “Your hands? What? All we know is that it’s more interesting to listen to speakers who are conversational and don’t look and sound like stiffs. Our favorite speakers sound and look like they are talking to their best friend at a bar. Have you ever seen yourself talking to friends at a bar? Guess what, you move your hands a lot.”