Body language, or non-verbal communication, instantly sends a message, and speaks more loudly than anything your words say. Here are some secrets to making a great impression with body language in communication.
1. Posture: Have you noticed people who seem to have charisma, or presence? Chances are that when someone exudes class and confidence, they invariably have great posture - they stand and walk tall. Good posture makes a strong impression because people notice it from across the room. It involves the whole body, not just small muscles. To make a great impression, stand and walk tall.
2. Facial expression: We look at people's faces to find out their moods. When your face and words don't match, you send a mixed message. For example if someone asks how you are feeling and you answer "fine" but look sad and downcast, people get a confusing message. For credibility, make sure your facial expressions match your words.
3. Smile: When someone smiles at you, it's difficult not to return the smile. The smile has a magical quality that is almost impossible to ignore. There is something inside us that responds instinctively to a warm, sincere smile. Smile warmly, and you'll make an instant connection.
4. Eye contact: Without eye contact communication is almost impossible. Try talking to someone without looking at them. Do you feel any connection? That's why parents often say to children, "Look at me when I talk to you." If you are doing business with North Americans, aim to maintain eye contact about 60-70% of the time. Eye contact for less that 50% of the time won't maximize its positive impact. With people from other cultures, you may need more or less eye contact than this.
5. Hands: People notice other people's hands, so what you do with your hands can betray your true feelings. Nervousness often shows in your hands through rubbing or wringing them together, or clasping and unclasping them. To appear calm and relaxed, avoid excessive fidgeting, or rapid exaggerated gestures.
6. Open or closed posture: Body language can be described as Open or Closed. Open body language welcomes interaction. It involves facing people squarely, and making eye contact. Closed body language is used when people feel threatened or uncomfortable. They withdraw or hide their bodies by using various stances and physical shields for protection.
7. Mirroring: Good communicators naturally mirror people's body language. It's a way of getting in synch with the other person. For example, we all use different tones of voice and language when communicating in business from when we talk to close friends or family members. In the same way, you can tone down or ramp up your energy level, rate of speech, and tone to make the other person feel comfortable.
You are invited to use these body language secrets to connect in business using non-verbal communication.
You're also invited to receive a free report: "Breakthrough Communication Skills" packed with powerful tips for business success, at http://www.ImpressforSuccess.com when you join my Communication Capsules newsletter.
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From Lynda Goldman, business communications and etiquette consultant and author of 30 books, including How to Make a Million Dollar First Impression.
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