Body language determines your success whether meeting someone new or interacting with a lifelong colleague. 

Assessments are often made before the first words are exchanged, while you’re interpreting another’s body language, they in turn are forming opinions of the message you’re sending, making body language a very persuasive tool in communication. Much of what we exchange through body language happens on an unconscious level requiring a heightened self-awareness to guarantee that the message fits our words and intentions.

Think about your last interaction. Was your body language in conflict with your spoken words? What message did you send?

The following are a few examples of body language and the messages they send:

• Arms Folded = defensive
• Hands on Hips = eagerness, readiness
• Resting Chin on Hands = bored
• Frowning = anger, dissatisfaction
• Raised Eyebrow = suspicion
• Finger Pointing = aggression, confrontation
• Handshake (depending on the strength) = confidence or insecurity
• Constant Nodding = loss of interest
• Eye contact = self-assured
• Little to no Eye Contact = lack of confidence; no interest
• Fidgeting with inanimate objects (pens, paper clips, cell phones) = nervous or disinterested

Understanding the power of body language and paying as much attention to it as you do to the words you use offers you a significant advantage in dealing with others. Master your body language and improve your relationships.