Over 80 percent of our communication is conveyed through nonverbal cues. That means our body language, facial expressions, and other nonverbal behaviours have a profound impact on how we are perceived by others, often overshadowing our verbal content. Surprisingly, many professionals fail to recognize the significance of their body language in the workplace.
Consider the story of a woman I recently coached in body language. Despite possessing an excellent education, outstanding performance reviews, and a track record of successful sales, she struggled to advance in her career. It quickly became apparent to me, within the initial five seconds of meeting her, that her body language was hindering her progress. Her nonverbal signals projected timidity, weakness, and disorganization, which starkly contrasted with her quiet confidence and intelligence. By sharing a few valuable tips, she began adapting her body language, resulting in invitations to high-level meetings, the opportunity to represent her company at a prestigious conference, and ultimately, a major promotion as the head of a department in their new offices.
Now, let's delve into techniques that you, as a non-native English-speaking professional, can employ to enhance your body language in the workplace:
When expressing your opinions and ideas, it's crucial to project confidence and assertiveness. Here are some universal body language techniques that signal strength:
- Claim Space: Individuals who lack confidence often keep their arms close to their sides and their feet tucked under their chairs, minimizing their presence. To convey confidence, firmly plant your feet shoulder-width apart when standing or lean back in your chair during meetings, using the armrests for support.
- Steepling: Picture this—pressing the tips of your fingers together with palms facing each other in front of your torso, forming what resembles a steeple. This gesture is a universal symbol of confidence. Employ steepling during business meetings at the table or when emphasizing a point during a presentation.
Building rapport is invaluable for successful interactions in various professional settings, including interviews, networking, and collaborating with colleagues. It is essential to possess nonverbal techniques to calm yourself when nervous and to appear non-threatening to others who might be anxious in your presence. If you hold a managerial or leadership position, these tips are particularly useful for diffusing hostility:
- Uncrossed Arms: Crossing our arms is a protective gesture, as we instinctively shield our vital organs. This posture conveys defensiveness and closed-mindedness. To remain calm and open-minded, keep your arms loose at your sides. If you encounter someone crossing their arms, offer them papers, a cup of coffee, or even a pencil to hold. Once they shift out of this defensive stance, they are likely to feel more receptive.
- Suprasternal Notch Technique: The suprasternal notch, the hollow space between your collarbones, is often touted as a self-soothing mechanism when people feel nervous. Lightly massaging this area or the back of your neck can help lower your heart rate and induce a sense of calmness.
- Pay Attention to Feet: Surprisingly, our brains subconsciously register the direction our feet are pointing, providing insights into our intentions. For instance, at a networking event, if you find yourself talking to someone while subtly pointing your feet toward the exit, you inadvertently convey a desire to leave. To demonstrate active engagement, point your feet and angle your body towards the person you're conversing with.
- Mirror Subtly: When we genuinely connect with someone, we naturally mirror their body posture and movements. You can leverage this to your advantage when aiming to bond with someone. Subtly, and without overdoing it, imitate their body posture or attempt to match their voice cadence. Our brains interpret this mirroring as a sign of friendship rather than rivalry.
Navigating negotiations, interviews, and tense business situations can be challenging, even for the most experienced professionals. In such scenarios, it is crucial to possess nonverbal techniques that not only help calm yourself when feeling nervous but also project an aura of non-threatening presence to others who might be anxious in your company. If you hold a managerial or leadership position, mastering these techniques can be particularly useful in diffusing hostility and fostering a harmonious work environment. Here are some additional insights and tips to cultivate calmness through body language:
- Controlled Breathing: Deep, slow breathing is a powerful technique to regulate your physiological responses and induce a sense of calmness. When you find yourself in a tense situation, take deliberate, controlled breaths, inhaling deeply through your nose and exhaling slowly through your mouth. This technique not only helps relax your body but also conveys a composed demeanour to others.
- Relaxed Facial Expressions: Your face reflects your emotions. When aiming to cultivate calmness, it is essential to maintain relaxed facial expressions. Avoid frowning, furrowing your brows, or displaying signs of tension. Instead, consciously relax your facial muscles, soften your gaze, and adopt a pleasant and open expression. This can help put others at ease and create a positive atmosphere.
- Slow and Steady Movements: Rapid or jerky movements can convey anxiety or nervousness. To project calmness, focus on moving in a deliberate, unhurried manner. Whether it's walking, gesturing, or handing documents, make smooth and controlled motions. By doing so, you convey confidence and composure.
- Maintaining Eye Contact: Eye contact is a vital aspect of nonverbal communication, and it plays a significant role in cultivating calmness. When engaging in conversations or interactions, maintain steady eye contact with the person or people you're communicating with. However, be mindful of striking a balance; overly intense or prolonged eye contact can be perceived as confrontational. Aim for a relaxed and attentive gaze, which demonstrates interest and confidence.
- Open Posture: Your body posture can influence both your own state of mind and how others perceive you. To foster calmness, adopt an open posture by keeping your chest and shoulders relaxed and slightly back. Avoid crossing your arms, as it can create a barrier and signal defensiveness. Instead, let your arms hang naturally by your sides or use purposeful gestures that enhance your message.
- Mindful Pause: When faced with challenging situations, taking a mindful pause can be highly effective. Instead of rushing to respond or react, allow yourself a moment of silence to collect your thoughts and emotions. This pause not only provides you with a chance to respond thoughtfully but also demonstrates composure and control.
Remember, cultivating calmness is a process that requires practice and self-awareness.
Understanding and applying body language in the workplace is both a captivating science and an art form. By incorporating these body language techniques, you can create a more serene and productive professional environment, enhance your own performance, and inspire confidence in those around you.
However, the most valuable advice I can offer is to be authentic. People have a keen sense of detecting inauthenticity, so strive to genuinely embody the nonverbal cues that align with your intentions.
