When speaking to a group, does your body language show your confidence? When you want to practice effective executive speaking, you must improve and clarify your body language.

Did you ever attend a speech and something was off? The speaker says the right words, although you really don’t like him! It’s likely that the speaker’s body language and words contradicted one another. Let’s get real. We like things that match and feel true.

Do you know any musicians? Have you ever seen their head reflexively shake “no” if something is off with the music? That’s what happens when your body language fails to match your words. Inside, the audience shakes with, “No . . . this is not truthful . . . I don’t like this.”

Now, here is a big mistake and how you can take action to really connect with an audience (or in a meeting).

Mistake: Your words say that you’re confident and that your product will help. But your body language says, “Don’t hurt me.”

Imagine that you’re at a conference. You would expect top level people to practice effective executive speaking. You hear someone say, “I’m confident that my product will solve your problem.” But the person is wringing his or her hands. Do you believe that person?

Avoid “petting your own hand like a pet cat.” Often, when nervous, people pet one hand with the other hand. This looks like you’re comforting yourself. It’s as if you’re saying to yourself, “There. There. I know you’re nervous in front of the big, scary people.”

Avoid the “Fig Leaf.” Another behavior to avoid is placing your hands together as if you’re covering or protecting yourself near the bottom of your torso. This screams, “I have no confidence.”

Avoid the “Mr. Spock.” Mr. Spock often held his hands behind his back. It’s almost as if he was saying, “I’d hit you, Captain, but my hands are clasped back here.” (For non-”Star Trek” enthusiasts: Mr. Spock has emotions. He just restrains them.)

Finally, when you answer a question (even a tough question), turn your whole body and face the person. If appropriate, take one or two steps toward the person and include his or her name. Turn your body so “heart faces heart” and say, “Thanks, Sarah. I’m glad you brought that up. Now, I can mention . . .” But only try this if you can do it with sincerity.

Every moment you spend in preparation for effective executive speaking will deliver a mountain of benefits. Keep in mind: Courage is easier when you’re prepared.

Tom Marcoux is known as Communication Coach, author of 9 books sold in 15 countries. Award-winning speaker, Marcoux guides CEOs, business owners in executive speaking. Member of National Speakers Association, Tom is a guest lecturer: Stanford University, National Association of Broadcasters Conferences. Get a Free Report at Tom’s blog: http://beheardandbetrusted.com/