You probably heard Susan Boyle sing last week forBritian’s Got Talent, the British Isles’ version ofAmerican Idol.  How many people, however, judged her the moment she entered the stage?  How many people made fun of her, laughed at her, and were waiting for her to fail?  Far too many people.

Upon opening her mouth to sing, however, the tone, the amazement, and the appreciation of the audience changed dramatically in her favor.

Miss Boyle is a perfect example of why we should never judge a book by its cover, but her audience was a perfect example of why we are being judged by how we look.

Not only does this woman possess a marvelous instrument, but she showed amazing presence on stage.  There are many talented voices, talented musicians and talented comedians who will never be able to make a career in their chosen field because they lack presence.

Do you have it?

You may think that it is your words that are going to move your audience one way or the other.  But you are being judged by how you look when you walk to the lectern as well as how you look when you acknowledge your audience.   Walking with confidence and with your head held high, making eye contact with your listeners, and smiling have an incredible impact on what will follow after you open your mouth to speak.

This impact does not just affect your audience.  It effects you as well.  The confidence you assume in your approach to the podium can help with the confidence you need in delivering your presentation or your speech effectively.

Public speakers are ‘heard’ not only aurally but visually as well. Therefore, the picture you present before you even begin, ‘speaks’ volumes about you.

While your audience may not be as shallow as the people in attendance atBritian’s Got Talent, audiences are still judgmental and the image you project can have a profound impact on your success in public speaking.

Unless you have a gift as Susan Boyle does, do not give your audience the chance to think negatively of your before you have even had a chance to begin.