When you were in school, you were taught to improve our language to communicate more clearly, but as you grow you learn very little beyond improving our words. It is a bit strange… as words constitute only 7 % of your communication, your voice or tone constitutes 38 % while body language 55 %.
Body language is an unconscious and non verbal form of communication. In any communication situation, formal or informal body language particularly postures and gestures can enhance the effectiveness of communication.
People have different body languages that define their personalities. Your eyes, facial expressions, gestures and your eyes combine with words to convey what is going on in your mind. Some people seem rude, some dishonest, and some intimidating while some are strikingly welcoming.
Body language has a great impact on your business deals and other negotiations. In any business communication if a person uses convincing words and tone to tap the prospective customer but fails to convey sincerity through his body language, he will not be able to close the sales.
Similarly, body language is an important aspect in maintaining personal relationship. In fact, it plays an important role in relationships where individuals know each other well. You must have noticed that your parents would realize when you were angry, anxious or even lying as they were attuned to your expressions, body postures and gestures.
Learning to use effective body language not only helps in making a good impression but also helps in understanding the ‘unsaid’ in the communication. If you wish to communicate well, then it makes sense to understand some common body language do’s and don’ts.
Do’s in a body language:
1. Give a firm handshake
This is first and most important body language basic. A handshake speaks about your confidence. A firm, tight handshake indicates confidence and determination while a shaky hand shake reflects no confidence or no interest.
2. Relax your shoulders
Keep your shoulders upright as a sense of alertness and move them back slightly to show confidence. When your shoulders are open and wide, it indicates you are open to meet new people
3. Maintain eye contact
When talking to people in a group make eye contacts with all of them to create a better connection and to see if they are listening. Giving no eye contact may show insecurity while keeping too much eye contact might be offensive.
4. Do the nod
In a conversation nodding once in a while indicates agreement but don’t make it excessive as it suggests the person is trying to please the speaker.
5. Lower your drink
Do not hold your drink in front your heart as it makes you seem guarded and distant. Hold your drink lower and casually.
6. Smile
Do not take yourself too seriously. Relax a bit and smile when you are introduced to someone new and laugh when someone shares something funny. Do not smile unnecessarily as it may seem like a forced smile.
7. Keep a good attitude
Lastly, keep a relaxed and positive attitude. How you feel reflects in your body language and can make a difference.
