Whether it is fair or not, we judge people more based on their nonverbal communication than on the verbal messages they send; that’s why first impressions do matter, even though they might be wrong.
Image matters in business as much as it does in show business. You don’t only have to act like a leader, you have to look like one. And it goes beyond the way you dress. Every gesture you make, every pose and stance you take, transmits a certain message to your interlocutors. And this message can be one of power, of friendliness, or, on the contrary, of weakness and aggression.
It takes time to become aware of your body language, and even more time to correct and improve it. But it is something you need to do. Your nonverbal signals may send the opposite meaning of what you are trying to express in words. Whether it is fair or not, we judge people more based on their nonverbal communication than on the verbal messages they send; that’s why first impressions do matter, even though they might be wrong.
Here are some of the most effective body language tips which define successful and powerful leaders:
1. Smile When Appropriate
Not smiling at all makes you look austere. Smiling too much makes you look like someone who doesn’t take anything seriously. It is important to know when to offer a smile: the moment when an anecdote is dropped, at the beginning and the end of a meeting, etc.
In addition, smiling depends on context and cultural environment. When dealing with international partners, for example, take the time to learn how smiling is perceived in the respective country.
2. Develop a Firm Handshake
When we shake hands with someone, we form a first impression of that person. A weak handshake or a sweaty hand tells us that the person is nervous and uncertain of themselves. On the other hand, an Iron Man handshake that crushes the other person’s fingers is not appropriate either.
There are volumes to be said about handshakes: how firm they should be, how long they should take, who gets the upper hand. As a general rule, a leader has an upper hand handshake, which is firm but not too tight. Also, remember to accompany your handshake with direct eye contact.
3. Eye Contact — Not Too Much, Not Too Little
Photo by Luca Iaconelli on Unsplash
Eye contact is important in any conversation. It not only helps you establish rapport with the interlocutor, but it also helps you understand what they are thinking in certain situations. And the same goes for you. Looking at people when you speak to them is recommended. Staring them down for minutes is not, and it may be interpreted as a form of intimidation.
Looking away too often or blinking in rapid succession are non-verbal signs that you are in an uncomfortable situation and you wish to avoid further confrontation — therefore try to avoid doing this.
4. Do Not Create Barriers during Conversations
Crossing your arms or legs are perceived as barriers you put up against the interlocutor. Any of these gestures is a clear sign that you do not really want to have the conversation or be honest and upfront in your answers. Such gestures are often seen in interviews when the reporter asks uncomfortable questions.
You do not want to give the impression that you are uncomfortable during business meetings, therefore do not create such barriers.
5. Train Your Vocal Tone
Your voice can send signals which completely contradict the words you speak. You certainly noted this in other conversations: the words sound friendly and confident, but the high-pitched head voice told you the contrary.
The most pleasant and trust-winning voice is the deep chest voice, with smooth inflections. This voice gives you an air of confident authority and is a pleasant voice to listen to, as well. There are many voice training programs available to help you educate your voice if you are not able to do this on your own.
This article was originally published on pldx.org.
