attorney here checking in-
point of order here on this subject- I never, ever, ask a witness to testify by using the term “take the stand”. what is this, Matlock? wow, sorry for the obnoxious question.
interestingly, I usually meet with the jury and my witnesses offline and explain to them that I have a system that is very different than most might use.
when I blink just my right eye three times, it means “take the stand”. when I blink my left eye three times, it means to lie and quit telling the truth to the jury.
two alternating blinks means great job, now leave the stand and return to your seat.