What do you do if your nonverbal cues are negatively affecting your professional relationships?

It's a fact that our verbal communication is less than 10% of what we transmit. Therefore, being fully aware of our body language is crucial in all our interactions. But since we are humans and not robots, and not every day is good nor are we always in the best mood, or with the greatest patience, it is key to be very attentive to the impact we generate on others with our communication style. Therefore, if we are presented with the slightest sign that we are not being effective in our interactions, the best advice I could give is to seek honest feedback from our colleagues. Knowing how to listen to this feedback effectively could be key in our fine tuning to those details of our posture, gestures, tone of voice and body language in general.

Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine to increase self-awareness and presence. Mindfulness meditation can help you become more attuned to your own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, leading to more intentional and effective communication. If you're struggling to improve your nonverbal communication on your own, consider seeking the help of a communication coach or therapist. They can provide personalized guidance and strategies to address specific challenges.

Start by objectively assessing your nonverbal communication. Reflect on your actions or seek feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors. Observe your posture, handshake, eye contact, and listening demeanor in meetings. Do you frequently cross your arms, indicating a closed-off attitude? Does your facial expression convey interest or boredom? Aligning nonverbal cues with your desired professional image begins with understanding the messages your body language sends.

If your nonverbal cues are harming your professional relationships: 1. Pay attention to your body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. 2. Practice positive nonverbal behaviors, like maintaining eye contact and using open body language. 3. Ask for feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors. 4. Work on improving self-awareness to recognize and control negative cues. 5. Seek professional development opportunities, such as communication workshops or coaching. 6. Apologize if necessary and express your commitment to improving. 7. Be patient with yourself and give it time, as changing habits takes effort. 8. Monitor progress and adjust behaviors as needed to foster better relationships.

To address negative impacts of nonverbal cues on professional relationships, begin by increasing self-awareness of your body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. Seek feedback from trusted sources and actively listen to suggestions for improvement. Adjust body language, facial expressions, and tone to convey confidence, openness, and respect. Be mindful of cultural differences and adapt behaviors accordingly. Practice empathy and consider others' perspectives in interactions. Seek professional assistance if needed. By improving nonverbal communication skills, you can enhance professional relationships and effectively convey intentions in the workplace.

Seeking feedback from peers offers valuable insights into your nonverbal communication. Approach someone you trust, requesting candid observations on your body language during interactions. Remain open to their perspectives, refraining from defensiveness. Their feedback may reveal blind spots and provide clarity on how others interpret your nonverbal cues. This process fosters self-awareness and facilitates improvements in communication effectiveness.

Ask your stakeholders which behaviours are triggering or sending adverse impressions. Alternatively try observing others non-verbal cues and reactions and then journaling about the reactions you’re eliciting

Feedback is a gift as it enables individuals to receive different perspectives on how colleagues perceive their nonverbal cues, helping them understand how their communication styles impact others. Additionally, it offers insights into effective communication barriers, which will enable individuals to make the needed improvements. It is important to ask for regular feedback and receive it in a timely manner so that individuals can get fresh inputs. Furrhemore , It is advisable to get feedback from trusted colleagues while being OK yo receive 360- degree feedback (from your peers, subordinates ordinates, superiors , and direct managers)

After identifying nonverbal habits for improvement, dedicated practice is essential. For instance, if you avoid eye contact, practice maintaining it to convey engagement and confidence. If your posture tends to be slouchy, practice sitting and standing with a straight back to project authority and professionalism. Utilize techniques like rehearsing in front of a mirror or recording yourself to increase awareness of nonverbal cues and refine adjustments effectively. Consistent practice enhances communication effectiveness and professional presence.

Practice and Apply Changes: Once you're aware of the nonverbal cues you need to change, practice in a safe environment. This could be in front of a mirror, with close friends or family, or through role-playing exercises. Gradually, start applying these changes in your workplace.

Focus on Consistency: Ensure your verbal and nonverbal cues are consistent. Mixed messages can lead to confusion and mistrust. If you're saying you're happy about a project while frowning or crossing your arms, your team is likely to believe your body language over your words.

Utilizando empatia e rapport, pe?a feedback aos colegas para identificar áreas de preocupa??o e trabalhe em estratégias para melhorá-las, como postura aberta e controle emocional. Esteja disposto a aprender e adaptar-se para promover relacionamentos positivos.

It's essential to address the situation proactively and take some time for self-reflection. Consider what specific nonverbal behaviors might be causing issues, whether it's crossed arms, lack of eye contact, or a tense posture. Once you've identified areas for improvement, work on consciously adjusting your nonverbal communication. Practice open body language, maintain appropriate eye contact, and be mindful of your facial expressions. Additionally, seeking feedback from trusted colleagues or a mentor can provide valuable insights into how others perceive your nonverbal cues. It's important to be patient with yourself as you strive to improve your nonverbal communication and strengthen your professional relationships.

Understand Nonverbal Cues: Educate yourself about common nonverbal cues and what they signify. This includes facial expressions, posture, gestures, eye contact, the tone of voice, and even your appearance. Understanding the basics can help you identify what aspects of your nonverbal communication might need adjustment.

Based on my Professional expirience the first thing you should you is ask for Direct Feedback to you People they need to tell you what are you Laking on or Failling on you nonverbal communication skills so you can improve and Move on.