BODY LANGUAGE SPEAKS LOUDER THAN WORDS. It’s not just what you say, but how you look when you say it. Does your voice and direct eye contact say, “I deserve the raise,” while your body is knotted up? Fidgeting with hair and earrings and crossing arms and legs sends the opposite message. They detract rather than attract.
STAY ON POINT. If you get nervous and find yourself getting lost or missing your own message, follow Lichtenberg’s advice. “If you feel you're going down the wrong path, you don’t like the tone of the room or you feel you’re getting emotional, just say, ‘Excuse me, I need a moment,’” Lichtenberg says. “Regroup. It’s OK. It’s better to do that than to lose it.” And, most of all, work the crowd. If you like them, they’ll like you.
Act 2: Substance Matters
SUBSTANCE IS STYLE’S WISER SISTER. Andrea Jung’s performance at Avon as chairman and CEO is not purely cosmetic. And Meg Whitman did not become president and CEO of eBay by winning an auction. Jung and Whitman, like successful women at the top of their fields everywhere, used their abilities and also played to their audiences. They communicated their goals, missions and ideals by proving themselves on their company and industry stage.
Grand Finale
Though you are center stage, don’t forget the supporting cast. Company leadership, mentors, co-workers and support staff fulfill key roles. Be sure they figure prominently in your dialogue. They have helped and can continue to help you advance in your career. “We” is much more powerful than “I.” The best performance of your life, no matter the stage, comes from wowing the audience. Convince them of your unyielding talent, attention-getting style and infectious energy. The critics will love you.
By Joey Reiman
Reprinted with permission from October-November 2005 issue of PINK.
.gif){kind=icon}
