Using a Podium
The use of a podium is a public speaking tradition. Many beginning speakers want to use a podium for a different reason, however -- to hide behind it. Using a podium is a personal choice for speakers -- sometimes the choice is tied to the speaking situation. If the speaker wants to move around the room, "working the audience," then a podium would only impede her. If a speaker needs to speak into a stationary microphone, he may need to use a podium.
Regardless of your personal choice, the podium can be used correctly if you follow these simple rules:
Stand behind the podium, don't lean on it or slouch behind it.
If gesturing, bring your gestures up to an appropriate level (otherwise the audience will wonder what you are doing behind that podium!)
Try not to grasp the podium with the Vulcan Death Grip - place your hands on the podium in a natural, relaxed way.
As you view these photographs, consider these questions.
| What behaviors are ineffective or effective in these photographs? Be specific in your mental answers. | poorpodiumbill |
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Why do you think so many speakers choose to use a podium? Would you have preferred to use a podium during your classroom speeches? Why or why not? Why do you think your instructor did not allow you to use one? (The correct answer is not: She is an evil witch!) |
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