Kate Ziuz in a red dress sitting elegantly on a white couch, teaching ‘The Art of Sitting’ to elevate presence as a speaker. — *Kate Ziuz speaking on a panel of Modern Day Wife, Beverly Hills*

When you're on stage as a speaker, your body language speaks before you even say a word. Whether you're on a panel at a conference, a networking event, or a high-profile discussion, how you sit can influence how the audience perceives you. Mastering your self-presentation and body language for impact is key to exuding professional confidence and an executive presence that commands attention.

As a panel speaker, how you sit can either enhance your authority or undermine your credibility. A poised, confident posture ensures that you not only look professional but also command attention—even when you’re not the one speaking.

The Common Mistakes to Avoid

Sinking Too Deep into the Chair

Avoid sinking too deep into the chair. This posture shrinks your body, makes you look disengaged, and can appear unflattering in photos. Sitting too far back can also make you look overly relaxed or passive—qualities that don’t convey authority or leadership. Instead, sit toward the front of the chair to engage your core and maintain an upright posture.

Pointing Your Knees Directly at the Camera

This common mistake creates a boxy, unflattering shape, making you appear smaller and less photogenic. Instead, angle your knees slightly to one side to add depth and dimension to your posture. Vary your leg positions throughout the event to keep your stance dynamic and visually engaging.

Sitting Too Stiffly

On the opposite end of the spectrum, sitting with a completely rigid posture can make you seem uncomfortable or unnatural. If your posture appears forced, it can be distracting and may make you look less confident. The key is to find a balance between poised and relaxed—engaged but effortless.

Slouching or Leaning Back Excessively

Leaning too far back gives the impression of disengagement, boredom, or even arrogance. A speaker should appear present and engaged, even when not actively speaking. Keeping your back straight while allowing a natural curve in your spine helps maintain an authoritative yet approachable presence.

Over-Crossing Your Legs or Arms

Crossing your legs too tightly or wrapping them around the chair can make you look closed off or overly casual. Similarly, crossing your arms may come off as defensive or distant. Instead, opt for a relaxed leg position with a slight elongation to create a poised and open look.

How to Sit with Confidence on a Panel

Kate Ziuz in a red dress sitting elegantly on a white couch, teaching ‘The Art of Sitting’ to elevate presence as a speaker. On the stage with other speakers Gohar Hakobyan and Melissa Baker — *Left to right: Gohar Hakobyan, Kate Ziuz, Melissa Baker at Modern Day Wife, Beverly Hills*

Sit Toward the Front of the Chair

This naturally engages your core, prevents slouching, and keeps you looking sharp and confident.

Kate Ziuz in a red dress sitting elegantly on a white couch, teaching ‘The Art of Sitting’ to elevate presence as a speaker. Demonstrating the tip - Elongate Your Legs’ by extending one leg forward for a polished, elegant silhouette — *Kate Ziuz speaking on a panel of Modern Day Wife, Beverly Hills*

Angle Your Knees Slightly

Instead of pointing both knees directly at the camera, shift them slightly to the side to create a flattering, dynamic shape.

Elongate Your Legs

For a polished look, extend one leg slightly forward while keeping the other bent. When applicable, point your toes toward the camera to create a lengthened, elegant silhouette.

Maintain Presence Even When Not Speaking

One of the most overlooked aspects of panel speaking is what happens when it’s not your turn to talk. Many speakers lose their posture once they pass the mic, appearing disengaged.

A great way to stay comfortable while maintaining presence is to subtly adjust—sitting slightly deeper in the chair to allow your back and legs to relax, but still keeping an upright, engaged posture.

Vary Your Positioning

Throughout the discussion, subtly switch angles or leg positions to stay comfortable and look natural. Small movements help you appear engaged and at ease, preventing stiffness or awkwardness.

Final Thoughts

Your body language as a panel speaker is just as important as your words. A confident, poised posture ensures that you look polished and professional, reinforcing your credibility. Mastering how to sit properly allows you to command the stage with presence and impact—even when you’re simply listening.

By implementing these subtle yet powerful adjustments, you’ll elevate your self-presentation, own the spotlight, and make a lasting impression.

Ready to Elevate Your Presence as a Speaker? 🎤✨

Kate Ziuz in a red dress presenting with a mic in right hand , inviting followers to master their presence and self-presentation through expert tips and guidance.

Knowing how to sit with confidence on a panel is just one piece of the puzzle. If you want to refine your body language, stage presence, and self-presentation to command attention and leave a lasting impact—I'm here to help.

💡 Not sure how to implement these techniques or need expert guidance? Let’s work together to elevate your presence and ensure you show up as your most powerful, polished, and confident self.

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