Stage Presence and the power of alignment – part 1
Have you ever wondered how you could develop the kind of magnetic “stage presence” that the best presenters have?
From my research, one of the most important components of stage presence is inner alignment, also called internal congruence. I believe that how someone appears on the outside is a direct reflection of their degree of “internal alignment.” The more comfortable they are with their inner world; the more confident and charismatic they seem to others. Another word for this quality is congruence.
How do I become more congruent?
To become more congruent, you first need to understand its parts. The best tool to help you do this comes from the world of NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming). Robert Dilts, one of NLP’s early pioneers, proposed the Logical Levels Model. In it, he suggests that there is a hierarchy of qualities which, when aligned, produce personal congruence.
Level 1 is the level of Environment.
It relates to when, where and with whom we want to have “stage presence.”
Level 2 is the level of Behaviour
In this context, it refers to behaviours used when standing in front of an audience. For example eye contact, vocal variety, gestures, purposeful movement, etc.
Level 3 is the level of capability
It refers to the degree of ability or skill with which we show those behaviours.
Level 4 is the level of beliefs
How well do your thoughts and associated internal chatter support allow us to express those capabilities we have. For example, you may know how to make and hold eye contact but you may not believe that you have the right to do so when in front of a senior audience.
Level 5 is the level if identity
The identity level relates to our self-image. Our Self-image is commonly expressed in the form if “I” statements. For example, how do you feel when you say the words ” I am a confident speaker.” Does it feel natural? Does it feel “true”?
Next Steps to Stage Presence:
If you’d like to know how to use this model to help create internal alignment yourself and thus increase your stage presence and congruence click here to see the second article in this series.
