Step Away From the Podium

It’s not always possible to step away from the podium. If you’re delivering a formal speech, or hosting an awards show where there are cameras and Teleprompters, the podium can be your only option. But, if you do have the option, get out from behind

the podium.

When you stand clear of the podium, it opens up your midsection to the audience. When you become more open and available to your audience, you’re essentially inviting them into your world. Because you’re presenting yourself in a somewhat vulnerable state, without the protection of the podium, there’s an unconscious feeling of trust that initially comes over your audience. Until you step out from behind the podium, your audience doesn’t really know whether they can trust you or not.

This isn’t a conscious thought, necessarily; it’s more of an unconscious response. Once, a speaker began her talk from behind the podium, and then, after only a few minutes, stepped out from behind the podium and walked to the front of the stage. In this case, I found her approach highly effective. She began in a safe position behind the podium, so as not to overwhelm her audience with her presence. She was able to garner trust by virtue of her voice, her demeanor, and her message. When she came out from behind the podium, it was like giving the audience a message that she now trusted us, that we were her friends, having an intimate conversation. It was very powerful.

Being outside the confines of the podium also provides you with a world of expressive freedom not found otherwise. The podium restricts your movements, your gesturing and your ability to fully express your message.

When you walk onto the open stage, you have space in which to express yourself fully and engage your audience. All barriers are gone, and you can be whoever you want to be, in order to get your message across.

A podium is typically associated with a formal speech, in which information is transferred. The open stage is where authentic self-expression, and the transference of feeling and energy, takes place. That’s where magic happens!

So, what’s the lesson? Use your discernment regarding the podium, but I encourage you to make every effort to step away from it. Open yourself up to your audience, so you can invite each other into your respective worlds.

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