Enterprise Nation

Elizabeth Kuhnke moved to the UK 20 years ago to meet the man she was to marry. Since then, she’s been involved in a range of industries that came together, 3 years ago, in the shape of her own home business. Please meet a top class body language expert.

Have you always been your own boss?

No.  I have worked in several industries including: theatre/television, restaurants, cruise ships, PR. I prefer being my own boss as I like to set the goals myself, not being constrained by others’ visions. Better to make my own mistakes than to behave in a way I can’t condone!

How long have you lived and worked in the UK?

I’ve lived here for 23 years, and have been working ‘outside the home for pay’ for 20 of them. 

Where were you before coming here?

My last port of call was New York City where I worked in PR for the fragrance industry.

Do you mind us asking why you moved to the UK?

Not at all.  It was an offer I couldn’t refuse.  My mother introduced me to a man who lived in England.  He is now my husband and the father of my two children (Kristina, 22 and Max, 20)

You have such great poise. How did you learn to stand and present like that?

Thanks for the compliment! I believe my theatre and dance training (ballet and jazz) were the foundation for the way I carry myself.  Also, because I’ve always been slightly overweight, I found that if I carried myself with authority I felt less self-conscious and projected a confident image.

What do you think is the secret to creating a lasting first impression?

Demonstrating an interest in the other person.  Make someone feel special, important and valued and they’ll remember you positively.  It’s easy for me to do this, as I believe people ARE special, important and bring value to the relationship.  This does not mean that I necessarily like the person, just that I respect their right to be who they are.

Are there any simple exercises people can do in their home office to improve their presentation skills?

1. Practice proper breathing techniques.  Begin from breathing from the diaphragm, rather than the upper chest.  This opens the vocal passage and supports the sound.

2. Pick role models.  Who do you think presents well?  What do those people do?  How do they sound?  How do they make you feel?  What can you do to emulate their behavior?

3. Finally, visualize yourself presenting at your best.  Make the image as real as possible. How do you look and sound?  What do you feel like when you envision yourself presenting as you want to be perceived?  The clearer and more detailed you can make this vision, the more likely you are to create the image of yourself presenting like a pro!

Elizabeth Kuhnke talks to Emma Jones

• Kuhnke Communication