Last week I attended a 6 day training course, “Present Like a Pro” with Authentic Education.
It was an amazing course, truly transforming and I can’t wait to put what I learned into action.
One of the interesting topics that came up was to beware the resting B-face.
I’m assuming you know what “B” stands for. Rhymes with “itch”.
The presenter, Benjamin J. Harvey, explained that over the years our facial muscles learn to rest in the same places over time and that there are only 7 universal facial expressions and only one of these is what we might deem “positive” in emotion.
This one is the “happy” one.
The others include:
- Angry
- Surprise
- Sad
- Fear
- Disgust
- Contempt
This was relevant to our training because we were practising presentations and it was a request for audience members to be aware of the resting face they may be giving.
As an example, over the years my facial muscles have learned to frown when I’m listening and processing important information from others. My face screws up and can look quite menacing.
As a result, I always make a point of explaining this to new clients so they don’t take offence or react to my frown.
As a presenter, I’m always looking for clues of engagement or otherwise from the facial expressions of audience members.
Sometimes there can be what looks like a resting B-face or a face that appears to be sitting in judgement.
I’ve had to learn not to project my insecurities onto someone’s facial expression. Remember “automatic listening” by Loretta Malandro.
I’m sharing this with you because I thought it was relevant for you to know when you are either presenting to an audience or sitting in the audience.
If you’re in the audience, please spare a thought for the presenter and put a smile on your face. This will encourage your presenter to relax and give you their best presentation.
If you’re the presenter, do your best not to make up a story based on how someone is looking.
Over to you, are you aware of where your facial muscles tend to land?
If not, ask a colleague or family member. They’ll tell you.
Next time, you’re in the audience, remember to consciously choose your facial expression.
A smile goes a long way.
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