Body Language Can Influence Your Audience in a Positive or Negative Way

Author: Gillian Maddigan

March 2025

Body language is a powerful tool that influences how your audience perceives you—either reinforcing your message or working against it. While you may have a clear verbal message, your unconscious body language—what I call body gossip—is telling its own story.

Body gossip is the conversation your body has with your audience without you being aware of it. It reveals insecurities, hidden stories from your past, and unspoken emotions that can confuse your audience, especially if they conflict with the message you are delivering.

Hi, I’m Gillian Maddigan, Body Language Trainer & Coach, and today I want to show you how to transform body gossip into body language that works for you. By aligning your physical presence with your words, you can improve your connection, influence, and even your bottom line.

What Does Your Body Say About You?

You may know your business inside and out, but do you know what your body is communicating to your audience—whether on stage, in front of a camera, or in everyday interactions?

Most people don’t. They avoid recording themselves or watching playback because they feel uncomfortable, insecure, or overly self-critical. The reason? Old stories of inadequacy, childhood experiences of being unheard or unseen, or patterns of self-doubt that have taken root over time.

I understand this firsthand. As a child growing up in a new country, I spoke English in a way that others didn’t understand. I had to constantly explain myself—to the point where I eventually stopped trying. Instead, I focused on observing others, learning how body language influenced interactions, and ultimately mastering the art of non-verbal communication. From the age of seven, I was unknowingly teaching myself to read people through their movements, posture, and expressions.

Your Audience is Reading You—Even if They Don’t Realise It

Most people can read body language instinctively. They may not be consciously aware of it, but they feel it. This instinctive reading isn’t just about understanding another person—it’s about assessing safety and trust.

Your audience is doing this every time they see you speak. They are measuring how safe and confident they feel with the information they are receiving. If you appear uncertain, nervous, or disconnected, your audience picks up on it. The result? Confusion, hesitation, and even mistrust.

When your words and body language don’t align, people subconsciously interpret this as a sign that something isn’t quite right. And in the business world—whether you’re selling a product, pitching an idea, or leading a team—this disconnect can cost you credibility and influence.

The Power of Conscious Body Language

Imagine knocking on someone’s door. Their first impression of you will determine whether they open it, hesitate, or leave it closed.

Your body language is that first knock. It sets the stage for how people will receive your message.

• How you look, move, and the tone of your voice create an instant impression. If your body language matches your message, people will metaphorically open the door—but they may still be cautious.
• Your posture, gestures, and facial expressions signal whether you are open and engaging or closed-off and distant. If your body language is inviting, your audience will be more willing to listen.
• The pace of your movements and speech matters. Rushing through your words or appearing tense can make your audience uneasy, while slowing down allows them time to absorb and connect with your message.

People need time to process what they see and hear before they can fully trust you. If your body language feels inconsistent or forced, they may hesitate. But when your presence, movement, and voice are aligned with your message, you create an environment where they feel safe, engaged, and ready to listen.

Know Your Audience, Earn Their Trust

Effective communication isn’t just about knowing what to say—it’s about understanding who you’re speaking to. Before any presentation, meeting, or sales pitch, take the time to research and connect with your audience’s needs and expectations.

• Give your audience a reason to relate to you. Show them what you have in common.
• Match your delivery to the setting. If your body language doesn’t align with what they expected based on previous interactions (advertising, online presence, etc.), they may withdraw.
• Invite them into the conversation rather than just delivering a message. When your energy is open and aligned, you move from simply presenting to connecting.

Just like a guest entering a home, your audience needs time to feel comfortable with you. If you rush or force your presence, they may metaphorically keep you “on the doorstep.” But if you build trust, align your body language with your message, and allow space for connection, they’ll welcome you in.

Final Thought

Your body language is either working for you or against you. The key is to become aware of what you are unconsciously communicating and make intentional changes to align your non-verbal presence with your verbal message.

By mastering conscious body language, you create clarity, confidence, and connection—turning every interaction into an opportunity to build trust and influence.