Have you ever noticed that someone’s body language seems to tell you a lot about that person? It’s almost like a view into his or her entire personality. While you have the ability to control words, sometimes body language is an innate instinct – something that happens without even thinking about it. Whether you’re assessing your own body language habits or you’re trying to identify how to handle a particular situation with someone, understanding what your body language says about you just might be the best tool you have. From leaning in close to crossing your arms, here’s a look at using body language in all aspects of your life.
What Your Body Language Says About You
Use body language to create a sense of trust. This comes in handy both in the office and your personal life when you really want to have an honest discussion with someone or you’re working with a new client. Stand up tall, make eye contact and stand close enough to the person that he or she knows you’re interested and engaged. Be wary of standing too close as that can create an uncomfortable feeling for someone.
When you need to take charge of a situation or rally a group – keep your head up high, your shoulders back and add a huge smile – this is inspiring and shows that you’re ready to lead. Similarly, if you’re taking a leadership role in a presentation or you’re working professionally with a new team, your posture tells all. Standing up straight, with your head high, shows that you’re excited to be there and are ready to tackle any tough situation.
Nodding and making eye contact is one of the best ways to let someone know that you’re both paying attention and you’re interested in the conversation. Crossing your arms, stepping too far back or looking away can all create the impression that you have better things to do. In both personal and professional relationships, it’s important to use body language to show that you’re engaged and listening.
If you have to have a tough conversation, using body language to connect with an individual(s) can help make the situation that much easier. Open yourself up by adjusting your position so that you are aligned with the other person, rather than merely looking over your shoulder. Show off your genuine interest in making a connection through eye contact and leaving all other distractions behind.
Skip the fidgeting – no matter what the situation may be. Wiggling, squirming and shifting around can easily give an impression you want to avoid – boredom. Regardless of where you have to be or what’s next on your agenda, everyone deserves 100% attention, so be cognizant of your own tendencies to shift and squirm. If you truly do have another obligation – let the person know you’d be happy to finish the discussion at a later time.
What are your body language habits? Are you aware of the small changes you can make to help change a situation?
