By Dawn Ellis
We are living in the digital age, where the increase of cloud-based apps and mobile devices has endangered face-to-face interactions. And even though we are in the midst of a technology-based era, body language has become more important than ever. When meetings are limited, you have fewer chances to make that lasting impression.
Your body posture, hand gestures, facial expressions and tone of voice speak volumes about you. Everybody has their own body language and often we are unaware of the impact we are making. Whether you are being interviewed, having a client meeting or doing a presentation, you need to be your best self – your most approachable and professional self.
Know How You Stand
Studies show that the emotion you are feeling will be apparent on your body before your subconscious mind. For example, when you’re hungry or impatient, it’s often easy to tell. As a result, when standing to talk, your stance is important.
Standing right in front of somebody is intimidating, while standing side-on invites people to come and talk to you (a great tactic for networking). If you rest your arm on your hip or sway while taking, you will look lopsided, making you appear vulnerable to your audience. You do not want to appear stiff and uncomfortable, but showing confidence through your stance is essential.
Remember Your Facial Expressions
When reading somebody’s body language, reading a person’s facial expression is a poor place to start. As adults we learn how to mask our true feelings – for example, pretending to be interested in conversation or putting up with someone you dislike at work.
When listening or talking to a person, eye contact is essential. There is a 3-second rule when it comes to making eye contact, however. If you exceed 3 seconds of eye contact, you look as if you are either attracted to that person, or are aggressive toward that person. When not making eye contact, don’t look down–it makes you look nervous or uninterested. Instead, look introspective by glancing up and around.
Lastly, it is also worth remembering that you should talk confidently and clearly. By having full control over your body language, you will make a lasting impression and seal that deal. Go and get ’em!
Dawn Ellis is Content Outreach Executive of AlldayPA, offering businesses a bespoke call handling service, answering calls personally and professionally 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Dawn is interested in marketing, search engines, social media and all things digital. @dawnellis191
