How to Influence Anyone, Anywhere, Every Time

CHAPTER 12MOVEMENT

Having explored posture and gestures as elements of physiology, let's now explore the full body in movement.

Again, we have been exposed to people stuck behind lecterns, with their bodies hidden, hands gripping the lectern sides and the often‐tedious experience that follows. You can use a lectern well though, and movement is essential to do this effectively.

The simple principle is this: movement facilitates attention. Think back to the fluttering moth example on page 108.

Movement plays a critical role in communication and your ability to influence. As we have already discovered, the subtle and overt physical gestures we use can significantly impact the clarity, effectiveness and emotional impact of our messages.

‘How can I move when I'm sitting in a meeting, or stuck in a Teams or Zoom call? There is no room to move, or even a reason!’ This is something we hear often. Movement is still critical in effective influence, and movement is possible both on your seat and on your feet.

We will incorporate gestures into physical movement; however, let's start with understanding the benefits of controlled and deliberate movement in your communication. There are differences between seat and feet. The difference between standing and sitting is significant, and this includes both live and virtual situations.

As a case in point, all our virtual workshops and programs ...