The Importance of Your Body Language
Think about all the face-to-face encounters you have each day, each week, each month and each year. And then think about how the success of any of these encounters all begins the instant someone sees you. Do you realize that one of the first things people notice about you is your aura or that distinctive atmosphere that surrounds you? You create that aura and you are responsible for what it says about you and whom it attracts.
Why is this important? Look at the article title – Do You Know What You Say Before You Utter One Word? Well, let me remind you that 55% of your personal message is conveyed by your body language, 38% by the tone of your voice and 7% by your words. This should tell us that sensitivity to and an understanding of body language are very important to us.
You need to know how to act to make the most effective & efficient use of your time and to attract people whom you want to do business with and add to your network. So, what are some basic tips to ensure a positive message from our body language? Here are a few things to remember regarding your body language.
1. Have positive posture. Your posture is one of the first things people will notice when they see and meet you. Avoid slouching, having your stomach protrude and lowering your head since these gestures will turn people away. Instead, stand erect, with shoulders back, stomach in, and head up because these gestures convey a positive message that you are approachable.
2. Make & maintain great eye contact. Focused eye contact develops confidence and helps you understand what the other person is really saying. It also conveys a message of interest in the other person and that you are paying attention.
3. Use a firm handshake with constant eye contact. Hold a person’s hand firmly, shake web-to-web up to 3 times and maintain constant eye contact. This will reinforce your interest in the other person.
4. Engage people with a pleasant and friendly smile. This will convey your interest, concern, excitement, and empathy and create a positive environment.
