The_Essential_Manager_s_Handbook

LOOKING CONFIDENT / 343

Keeping a connection

Unless you are presenting to a very large

group, attempt to make eye contact with

every member of the audience at least

once. Maintain contact for no more than

three seconds—longer contact may be

seen as hostile. If you find this unnerving,

start by making eye contact with

someone who looks friendly and

approachable before moving around the

rest of the room.

Remember also to target people at

the back and sides, or those who appear

less enthusiastic. If you remain too

nervous, look between two heads or scan

the room—never avert your eyes from

the audience. Not only will you lose their

trust, but your voice may become

muffled and indistinct, too.

>>^ Bending your elbow and extending

your right arm

>> Pumping your hand two or three

times before releasing

>>^ Making and keeping eye contact

with the person you are greeting

>>^ Offering just the fingers of^

your hand

>> Holding on to the other person’s

hand too long or too lightly

>>^ Looking around the room while

shaking someone’s hand

SHAKING HANDS CONFIDENTLY

Do’s Don’ts

US_342-343_Looking_confident_3.indd 343 30/05/16 3:05 pm