5 Moves to Master Body Language

Body language is often more important than tone of voice and choice of words when communicating true feelings. [1]

So follow these five steps to make your true thoughts heard, without having to say a word!

#1 Strike a pose!
First, adopt an open posture. Be relaxed, but don't slouch! Sit or stand upright and place your arms loosely by your sides. Keep your head up to show that you're engaged.

#2 Make some gestures.
Now pair your posture with free-moving body movements and gestures to show that you're confident.

Take care to avoid overexpression, or people may focus more on your hands than your ideas.

#3 What's on your face?
Facial expressions are powerful at conveying - and inciting or influencing - emotion, so it's important to think about your smile, your eyebrow movements, the tilt of your head.

#4 Watch your eye contact.
Eye contact helps to:
* Establish trust.
* Show that you're listening actively.
* Improve your concentration.
* Gain engagement from your audience.

Constantly looking away could make you appear distracted or uninterested. And avoiding eye contact can be perceived as a sign of dishonesty, embarrassment or nervousness.

But, holding eye contact for a long time can be off-putting, so be careful not to start a staring contest!

#5 Try mirroring.
Mirroring is the practice of mimicking the other person's nonverbal cues, usually subconsciously.

If you can, consciously but subtly mirror the body language of the person you're talking to. This can help to build rapport.

But don't copy their every gesture or you'll make them uncomfortable.

Positive body language supports your points, helps you convey ideas more clearly, and avoids sending mixed messages.

With a bit of practice, you'll master body language in no time!


References
[1] Mehrabian, A. (1967). 'Inference of Attitudes From Nonverbal Communication in Two Channels,' Journal of Consulting Psychology, 31(3), p249-252.


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