Communication is easier for some than others. We all know someone who just has that natural ability to communicate effectively and have the body language to back it up. It seems so effortless but the truth is that most people have to work at communicating with others. By practicing and mastering these 10 tips of body language, you are one step closer effective communication.
1. Stand up straight and lean forward when seated. This demonstrates interest in what the other person is saying. But be careful… you don’t want to be a “close talker”. Assess your proximity to the person you are interacting with.
2. Use gestures and facial expressions. If you don’t use gestures and facial expressions, you are not conveying your message to its full potential. A smile goes a long way and makes for a more engaging and effective message. Move your hands around a bit. You don’t want to come across as being stiff, but yet again, use some refrain. You don’t want to look like an air traffic controller!
3. Eye contact. Very important! Eye contact says to the other person that you are listening and interested in what they are saying. This may be something that needs to be worked on because little eye contact shows disinterest and too much eye contact can make people feel uncomfortable.
4. Don’t cross your arms. This is seen as defensive and closed off. Your goal when communicating with others is to be open and social.
5. Relax! This is easier said than done sometimes, but try to be conscious of the tension and nerves you may be displaying. Start by trying to relax your shoulders and the rest of your body will start to relax as a result.
6. The head nod. Nodding as the other person is talking displays you understand what they are saying. Nod every once and awhile, not constantly.
7. Sit up straight. No one likes a sloucher! Slouching comes across as disinterest.
8. Chin up! One of the signs of low self-confidence is staring at the floor when conversing. Keep your head and eyes up, showing confidence in your conversation.
9. Lower your drink. If you are drinking and conversing at the same time, it is polite to hold your drink at your side. Holding your drink in front of your chest or heart makes you seem guarded.
10. Mimic. During fascinating conversations, people tend to mimic or mirror each others body language without even realizing it! Take note of the body language that the other person is displaying and follow along. Just don’t be obvious about it because that will make the other person very uncomfortable. Delay your actions a minute or two later.
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