How to Develop a Commanding Presence

Engaging speakers capture their listeners’ undivided attention. Furthermore, engaging speakers don’t just ask for people’s attention, they command it. Plain and simple, when you have a commanding presence, people not only listen to you, but they are also inspired by you.

Developing a commanding presence comes easy to some people, but for the most of us, it’s something that we have to work on. Here are five ways you can make yourself more attractive to audiences.

1. Accentuate your unique qualities. Audiences can smell a fake a mile away. So, don’t imitate anyone, even dynamic speakers you admire. Focus on what you believe are your key strengths—perhaps this could be your beliefs, your experiences, and/or your sense of humor.  Accentuating your positive attributes will win people’s attention and respect.

2. Stay in the now. If you want people to listen to you now, you need to be in the now!  If you’re focused on the past or future, you will come off as being distracted or preoccupied. Stay in the moment by focusing on your breathing. The simple act of taking slow and deep breaths will get you focused on the present—you’ll be amazed.  

3. Develop a genuine interest in your subject matter. If you want others to be interested in what you’re saying, you have to be interested. If you’re not excited about your speech, how can you expect others to be excited? Think about how your audience may react and how they might be affected by your presentation. Lastly, vow to never talk about something that you find boring.

4. Connect with your audience. Whether you’re speaking to a few people in your office or to a jammed auditorium, build rapport with them. Look them in the eye as you speak. Talk to them like they’re your friends. Think of your presentation/speech as a way of helping them solve a problem or achieve a goal. Let them know how much you care, and they’ll care about what you say.

5. Stand your ground. People who project a sense of being in command are not easily swayed or pushed about. They stand their ground. People will inevitably disagree with you, so be prepared to defend your position. 

Public speaking can be very difficult on its own. Developing a commanding presence presents an even bigger challenge. However, if you practice and focus on the five tips above, you will be dominating the room in no time!