As a trained professional Opera Singer, Voice Coach, and Body Language Strategist, Kerstin Oleta commands every room she enters. In her 30+ years crafting and coaching the art of audience connection, every movement and gesture is executed with intent and strategy. Those who are fortunate to be in a room with her recognize her ability to not only capture an audience, and create a genuine and authentic connection, as well.
There are few things worse than being in the audience when the presenter makes you wish you were anywhere else. The topic may be exciting, and the speaker knowledgeable, but the message falls flat. Often the reason why – they forgot about the performance! Kerstin says, “As a performer, I understand the importance and impact of creating a powerful experience that lasts.” When the audience is engaged, entertained, and excited, the value increases, the experience is unforgettable, and the information is retained. When a woman is confident, dynamic, and energetic the whole experience is elevated.
“The power is in the posture,” says Kerstin. “Women who stand to their full and natural height will show more confidence and exude authority in their expertise at a higher level.” She’s made it her mission to teach others how to command a room and own the space they are in.
When men are commanding a stage, wanting to impress others, they are often seen “peacocking” and strolling with a puffed chest, not waiting for an invitation. Men know they belong where they are. Here’s a secret - women do, too. Ms. Oleta shares how using correct posture, correct facial expressions, uncrossed arms, and simply taking up space, women speakers can have a greater opportunity to connect with their audience.
Body language is a part of everything we do. It is not reserved for the stage necessarily. Think about your posture in a job interview. How are you sitting when you’re speaking on the telephone; in a meeting with a client; or even at a party? Are you the wallflower? Or are you the one commanding the attention? Kerstin offers, “…my experience on stage as an opera singer taught me how to engage my muscle memory – how I’m standing and what I’m exuding out to the audience – to create my presence and exude the leadership needed to build the BLEI. I don’t have to think about it anymore because it is naturally part of who I am.”
In any presentation, Kerstin is always observing her audience - the ones who are leaning in, and taking notes, or even laughing at the over-exaggerated expressions demonstrated for effect. She also recognizes those who pretend not to. Ms. Oleta has been on stage and in rooms with executives from Fortune 500 companies such as Google and eBay Global, virtual meetings with international clients, and through her experiences, has found similarities among women from different countries and demographics that have led to the pillars of Body Language Success. These pillars are: Confidence, Competence, Trust, and Approachability.
Kerstin’s desire on activating these four pillars is, “When you walk into a room exuding all four of these things, people are naturally drawn to you as a leader and want to know what you have to say.”
When Shania Twain kicks off with “Let’s Go, Girls”, it becomes an anthem of empowerment. There is a standard that is set in that moment, and the mindset as the song plays on is powerful! Kerstin Oleta is a magnet for power! Her goal for every woman she meets is to help them level up their presence, own their confidence, and put their best foot forward. Every woman should feel incredible in every moment. Kerstin says, “As a performer, I understand the importance and impact of creating a powerful experience that lasts.” If New Braunfels has anything to do with it, Kerstin Oleta is creating a movement for every single one of us.
