What Does Your Body Language Say About YOU?
By Harriet Meyerson
Did you know that the words you use only have a 7% impact on your
communication? Your tone of voice only amounts to another 38%, but your
non-verbal body language amounts to a whopping 55% impact on the message
you are trying to communicate.
Body language means the way you sit or stand, move and look. Without body
language your conversations will be boring and less effective. Worse yet, if
your body language and your words aren’t congruent you may be sending mixed
messages. Here are powerful nonverbal communication skills you can use
immediately to add clarity and vitality to your conversations at your school.
USE GOOD POSTURE. YOU WILL LOOK CONFIDENT.
Carefully observe other people around you. You might be surprised at how
many people are speaking to someone while their bodies are turned away from
that person.
While standing side by side may disconnect you from your partner, standing
directly face-to-face may seem confrontational. Therefore it is best to stand
or sit at an angle toward the other person. In addition, sitting or standing
at the same eye-level with your partner sends a signal that you are equals and
lessens any feelings of intimidation.
Whether sitting or standing, using good posture reflects your confidence
and causes others to pay more attention to your message.
ARE YOU TOO CLOSE?
Pay attention to how close you are to another person. Some people feel very
comfortable with physical closeness while others may be offended when people
get too close. Many cultures also place limitations on physical closeness. If
you sense that someone feels uncomfortable put a little more space between
you.
GESTURES ADD MORE MEANING TO YOUR CONVERSATION
Gesturing with your hands adds life and meaning to your message. Practice
in front of a mirror using your hands to emphasize important points. The
proper gestures will start to happen naturally. When not gesturing, let your
hands naturally drop to your sides. Be careful not to cross your arms because
that signals anger or a lack or openness. Don’t point your index finger at
anyone because that is threatening, and don’t play with your clothing,
jewellery, or pencils, as this is distracting.
BE MORE PERSUASIVE BY PAYING ATTENTION TO YOUR BODY LANGUAGE
Remember the 55% impact created by your body language. Each day try to use
some of these body language skills to improve your nonverbal communication. As
a result, others will find you more enjoyable to talk to, and your
communications will become more persuasive, more interesting, and more
effective.
About the author: Harriet Meyerson, president of The
Confidence Center, works with companies that want confident, loyal, and
happy employees, and with individuals who want the confidence they need
for success. Harriet is a member of the National Speakers Association and
the author of Fire Up Your Staff on a Shoestring Budget.
Visit the Confidence Center web site for - Free employee
morale newsletter. Free articles on employee success and personal
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Seminar, and telephone coaching information. Free daily fun stuff. http://www.ConfidenceCenter.com
E-mail: Harriet@ConfidenceCenter.com
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