I recently came across an article about body language written by Brittani Renaud, Health magazine,
relating more to dating, but you can use the same techniques in business as I
explain below.
Did you know that the way you stand can make you more persuasive—or more likable to the person you talking to? And the way you hold your arms can be a tip off that you’re tense or just not that interested in what the other person have to say? Send out the best possible message and get people to like you more with these tips below.
Be a copycat
Mirroring someone else’s body language is a
great way to show that the two of you are in sync. In fact, when you talk to a
close friend, you may find yourself matching his or her posture—when he/she
leans forward, you lean forward; he/she takes a sip of her water, you take a
sip.
What you are saying to the other person in
doing this is that you are feeling comfortable and at ease. And when someone
mirrors you, it also calms you. This move can also show empathy. When listening
to your child, a friend, or a client describing a problem, matching their
posture and tone of voice shows them that you truly understand what they’re
going through.
Take up space
Do you keep your arms close to your sides or
folded in front of you? This makes your body more compact, which sends out the
signal that you’re not only closed but subordinate. When you take up less
space, you appear and feel less powerful, and people may treat you that way.
If you want to command respect, whether it’s
from a co-worker or a family member, take up a little more space. Remember to
stand up straight and relaxed, with your feet 6 to 7 inches apart.
Hold your head up
There’s a good reason why “jump for joy” is a
cliché. When you feel happy and confident, your body automatically lifts up. You
may raise your head, shoulders and/or chest, and momentarily push up on the
balls of your feet. Feeling down? Hold up your head, bring your shoulders back,
sit up, and smile. It can change your mood in less than a fraction of a second.
Believe it or not, our body movements actually change our feelings.
Watch your arms
Though anything from stress to an overly
air-conditioned room may prompt you to cross your arms, people assume you’re
trying to keep something inside or someone out when you get in this stance. You
might unconsciously do it at a party to keep others at bay or at work as a way
of holding back your real opinion. To appear more approachable, leave arms by
your sides or gesture with them.
Open up
Always reach out with open palms and make gestures
with your palm facing out. Similarly, turning the upper part of your chest toward
a person and pointing your toes toward him/her show a desire to connect.
As always,
MY GOAL…YOUR SUCCESS!
