2 minute read
Effective Professional Body Language
The risk of being seen as an amateur in your profession can easily show in simple things, such as soft skills that suggest a poor work ethic and poor nonverbal communication practices. Avoiding these and other risks is key to creating a positive professional experience. Effective, courteous, respectful behavior will produce lasting relationships and professional endeavors that run more smoothly and gain quicker results. One valuable skill is understanding body language. This gives you the ability to quickly and effectively “read between the lines,” interpret the silent signals leaked by others, and position and conduct yourself to make a great impression.
THE EYES
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BREAKING EYE CONTACT
IMPACT/PERCEPTION:
A broken gaze may signal a lagging conversation or that listening has stopped
In intense/intimate conversations we look at one another more often STARING
IMPACT/PERCEPTION:
Negative contact that may be considered rude/a threat
A manner in which dominance, superiority or lack of respect is delivered THE FACE
HEAD NODS
IMPACT/PERCEPTION:
Indicators of approval, understanding & agreement
Head nods are very important to communication and indicate that you are listening and understanding THE SMILE
IMPACT/PERCEPTION:
A genuine smile affects not only the corners of the mouth, but changes the entire face
The fake smile is easy to produce, but will look strained & stiff
BODY POSTURES
Postures can show status; open postures are perceived as more positive & can be more persuasive
Arms folded, legs crossed, body turned away
IMPACT/PERCEPTION:
Feelings of vulnerability, discomfort
“OPEN” BODY POSTURES
Legs uncrossed, arms open with palms exposed or relaxed at the body’s side
IMPACT/PERCEPTION:
Signs of openness, accessibility, willingness to interact
LEANING
FORWARD LEANING
Assists in connecting and creating intimacy in the conversation
BACKWARD LEANING
IMPACT/PERCEPTION:
Aligned with positive attitudes and increased verbal output
IMPACT/PERCEPTION:
May signal dislike, negativity or dominance MIRRORING (LIMBIC SYNCHRONY)
Is hardwired in the human brain; we all do it. May occur subconsciously or done with intent to develop relationships Assuming the same body posture to match the other person
IMPACT/PERCEPTION:
A nonverbal way of saying you like/agree. Shows connection and engagement
It’s important to note that people in Western culture judge more from appearance than reality, respond to a firm handshake and need eye contact. Set yourself apart as a polished professional by paying attention to these nonverbal details that create success. The benefits will be many.
Kelly Duggan
Kelly is an Image Consultant specializing in executive and personal image development, etiquette & communication skills. She is a certified member of the Association of Image Consultants International. Contact Kelly at: www.kellyduggan.com.
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