In order to improve the body language, it is necessary to be aware of the different types of body language. There are four main types of body language: verbal, nonverbal, paralanguage, and kinesics. Each type of body language can be used to communicate different types of messages. It is important to be aware of the different types of body language and how they can be used to communicate effectively.
- Practice self-awareness. One of the first steps you should take to improve your body language is to gain a deeper sense of self-awareness. …
- Relax your shoulders. …
- Straighten your back. …
- Use proper posture. …
- Lean in slightly. …
- Uncross your arms. …
- Smile. …
- Make eye contact.
Why is body language important in the workplace?
Body language has a significant impact on how others view you at work. It aids in emphasizing and reinforcing the messages you convey and adding new meaning. However, if your nonverbal cues and your verbal message don’t match, your body language can refute some assumptions. Understanding your body language when speaking with coworkers and managers can help you make sure your message is being received clearly and prevent the possibility of negative body language sending a conflicting message or even an unintended subtext. By mastering the art of reading body language, you can,
What is body language?
The nonverbal signals that people use to communicate are referred to as body language. These nonverbal cues include things like posture, eye contact, tone of voice, and gestures. For instance, tilting your head to the side while talking to someone can show that you’re listening. The same goes for maintaining an upright posture, which shows interest in what the other person is saying. On the other hand, nonverbal cues such as crossing your arms and slouching can be interpreted as defensive or as disinterest in the conversation.
How to improve the body language
You can take the following actions to change your body language:
1. Practice self-awareness
Being more self-aware is one of the first things you should do to improve your body language. Consider your actions and any nonverbal cues you may be giving when you are speaking to people or engaging in certain topics. You’ll be able to identify which behaviors to watch out for and which you should put the most effort into developing by engaging in self-awareness.
2. Relax your shoulders
Letting your shoulders drop to a comfortable level is another action you can take to improve your body language. Too-high shoulders can make you appear tense, while shoulders that are slumped can give off a depressed vibe. Be aware of where your shoulders are positioned now and let them fall into a natural position.
3. Straighten your back
Sit tall and keep your spine straight to convey to the person you are speaking with that you are interested in what they are saying and paying attention to them. Reminding yourself to keep your chin up is an effective way to make sure your neck is in the right position.
4. Use proper posture
Maintaining proper posture is crucial for giving off the impression of confidence. Make sure to sit or stand up straight and maintain proper posture whenever you are conversing with another person.
5. Lean in slightly
Consider leaning in a little when the other person is speaking as a way to demonstrate to them that you are interested in the conversation. Be mindful of how much you’re leaning in, though, as doing so too much can make the other person uncomfortable or give the wrong impression. Likewise, leaning too far away can make you appear distant.
6. Uncross your arms
Uncrossing your arms will show the person you’re speaking with that you’re comfortable and confident. If you’re standing or sitting, you might want to keep them folded in your lap or by your sides. Alternatively, you could clasp your hands behind your back to project confidence.
7. Smile
When appropriate, smile when you are introduced to someone and throughout the conversation. Throughout the conversation, pay attention to your facial expressions because a neutral expression can frequently come off as a frown. Simply raising your mouth’s corners can help you project a relaxed and pleasant expression.
8. Make eye contact
Making eye contact with the person you’re speaking to is crucial. However, it’s also crucial to refrain from making excessive eye contact. Looking into someone’s eyes long enough to note their eye color before looking away is a simple trick to make sure you’re maintaining the proper level of eye contact. Using this technique, you can make sure to maintain eye contact for a period of time that feels natural and comfortable for both parties.
9. Mirror the other party
Mirroring body language and other nonverbal cues is another way to make sure the person you are speaking to is at ease when conversing with you. For instance, you could imitate their body language and tone of voice. Even minute mirroring can help the other person feel more comfortable.
10. Use your hands
Most people use hand gestures when engaged in everyday conversation. Even in a professional setting, you should naturally emphasize certain words and phrases with your hands.
11. Move slowly
Be aware of the speed with which youre moving. You can appear more assured and at ease by moving more slowly and deliberately.
12. Speak slowly
People tend to speak more quickly when theyre nervous. Project a sense of confidence by speaking slowly and carefully. Additionally, doing so will guarantee that the other person can understand you. When making important points, speak more slowly. If necessary, take brief breaks to collect your thoughts.
13. Nod periodically
Nodding is an effective way to demonstrate to someone that you are paying attention and interested in what they are saying. It’s a nonverbal way to support them in speaking further and show them that you concur with or are interested in the viewpoint they are expressing, which can help to increase their confidence.
14. Beware of fidgety movements
Take care to control your movements, and try to unwind. Some typical fidgety behaviors include tapping your fingers or shaking your leg or foot. You can protect yourself from these by strengthening your sense of self-awareness.
15. Lower your drink
Be aware of where you are holding any drinks you have in your hand. You come across as distant and guarded if you hold a drink or anything else in front of your heart. Hold your beverage next to your leg, lowering it to the side.
16. Exude energy
It’s critical to up your energy level when meeting someone for the first time. People frequently think they are more energetic than they actually are. You can feel confident that you’re displaying the high energy levels you want by being deliberate about raising the level of energy that you exude when conversing with another person.
17. Use a matching handshake
Always use a firm handshake or match the person you’re meeting’s handshake when you’re meeting someone new. This puts the person you’re meeting at ease and helps you present yourself in a professional manner.
18. Face the person youre speaking with
It’s crucial to speak directly to the person you’re conversing with when you’re conversing. By turning your back on them, you might give the impression that you’re not listening to or are otherwise preoccupied. Observe the direction your feet are pointing as well and direct them toward the person you are speaking with.
19. Maintain a proper distance
Keep an eye on the person you are speaking to’s body language. For instance, they might be angling their heads to hear you more clearly or backing away. Get a better understanding of what an appropriate distance is by using these cues.
20. Study the body language of others
Lastly, pay attention to how other people are carrying themselves, especially those you admire. Pay attention to the way they carry themselves, the tone of their voice, and their mannerisms. Practice mimicking those nonverbal cues yourself.
