How confident do you look?

Do you come across as confident? Do you project self-assurance in your personal and professional interactions? Or do you feel self-conscious and like no one takes you seriously?

I was painfully shy as a child. I felt insecure most of my life and did everything to stay out of the spotlight. It took a lot of personal growth to evolve into the confident woman I am today.

As a strong introvert, I still prefer 1 on 1 interactions and get nervous speaking in public and attending networking events.

Confidence is not just a state of mind. It’s also a state of body. In the fast-paced world of technology, where the focus is on your skills and expertise, it’s crucial to match that brilliance with confident body language.

How do you use your body to show confidence?

Check out my tips to help you portray confidence with your body language and make a lasting impact:

????♀? Stand tall

Your posture speaks volumes before you even say a word. Standing tall with your shoulders back and head held high exudes confidence. This stance not only makes you appear more assertive but also helps you feel more empowered. Keep your weight evenly distributed on both legs. A public speaking coach once gave me feedback that all my weight was on one leg, and I was leaning backwards like I wanted to get out of the room.

??? Make eye contact

Eye contact shows that you are engaged and confident in what you’re saying. When speaking to someone, make it a point to maintain eye contact for a few seconds at a time. This can help build trust and convey sincerity. For example, during a presentation, try to make eye contact with different members of the audience. This not only keeps them engaged but also shows that you are confident and approachable.

?? Smile

A genuine smile shows that you are comfortable and open. Smiling also has the added benefit of making you feel more relaxed and positive. Whether you’re in a job interview, a team meeting, or a networking event, a smile can make you more approachable and likable, enhancing your overall presence.

???? Use open gestures

Open gestures, such as keeping your hands visible and avoiding crossed arms, signal openness and confidence. When you use your hands to emphasize points during a conversation or presentation, it demonstrates that you are comfortable and in control. For example, when explaining a complex idea, use your hands to outline key points. This not only helps in better communication but also shows your confidence in the subject matter.

???? Take up space

Confident individuals tend to take up more space. This doesn’t mean you should invade others’ personal space, but rather that you should occupy the space around you comfortably. Spread your materials out in a meeting, avoid huddling, or making yourself smaller. This signals that you have a right to be there, and that you are confident in your presence.

?? Mirror confident behavior

Observe and mirror the body language of confident individuals around you. This technique, known as mirroring, can help you adopt similar traits and behaviors. Notice how they stand, gesture, and interact with others. Incorporating these behaviors into your own interactions can boost your confidence over time.

?? Fake it til you make it. Using confident body language will help you feel more confident. And it's a skill that can be developed with practice.

Your body language can significantly influence how others perceive you and how you perceive yourself. What tip do you want to try today? Keep practicing and watch your confidence soar ??

Do you want to hit the ground running this fall as the new and improved, confident you? DM me to sign up for my Summer Confidence Bootcamp ?? designed exclusively for women in tech. Limited spots available. Act fast before it sells out.

Lots of love,

-Anna