A language that stands on its own, body language is sometimes louder than you imagine.

How you “show up” physically is a powerful tool to exhibit credibility and influence. Ask yourself these questions to see if you are undermining your leadership effectiveness.

Do you:
–Avoid eye contact? 
–Have poor posture?
–Dress too casually?
–Cross your arms or "church steeple" your fingers? 
–Stand in a "fig leaf” position?
–Use non-productive, repetitive hand gestures?
–Exhibit facial expressions like eye rolling or frowning? 
–Nod impatiently?
–Sit or stand too close to others or too far away?

If you aren’t sure you exhibit your best qualities, start observing. Using your smart phone, set the camera to video, reverse the lens and record. Play it back and see for yourself. Don’t miss an opportunity to make your non-verbals work for you.

A fear is a fear is a fear…here are some simple tips to help reduce your fears when making a presentation.

Know Your Topic. Practice, practice, practice...enough so you can deliver naturally without looking overly rehearsed.

Pump Yourself Up. Remember, the audience doesn’t see the fear that you feel.

Focus on Your Audience. It’s really not about you. Give your audience what they came to hear and learn.

Have a Conversation. Instead of using a formal, unnatural speech pattern, tell a story authentically.

Breathe Deeply. Shallow breathing can add to your fear and make you light-headed.

Act Naturally. Your audience will read your body language. Stand confidently with solid posture, no fidgeting and good eye contact.

Smile. Audiences respond to a warm smile. And the positive endorphins you'll release can help you relax.

Following these tips will help increase your confidence and decrease your fears.