Where You Stand Matters—Literally
Have you ever noticed how some people seem to command attention without saying a word? It’s not magic—it’s positioning. Anchor points are exactly that: specific spots in a room, courtroom, or stage that you can use to emphasize or downplay your message. They’re a subtle, almost subconscious way to guide your audience’s perception.
Here’s the thing: when I’m in court, where I stand is just as intentional as what I say. If I’m talking about a less important issue—something that’s not central to my case—I position myself on the far side of the jury box, away from the witness and the judge. It’s a deliberate choice to signal, “This isn’t the heart of the matter.” But when I’m hammering home a key point? I stand close to the witness, so the jury sees them framed by me and the judge. That visual triangle creates an impression of authority and significance.
Over the course of a trial, the jury picks up on this pattern without even realizing it. By the second week, they’ve subconsciously linked my proximity to the importance of the argument.
And this approach isn’t limited to courtrooms. Whether you’re presenting in a boardroom, speaking on stage, or even navigating the digital landscapes of the metaverse conference room or stage, anchor points help you steer attention. After all, where you stand can say as much as what you say.
Mitch Jackson | links