Top Ten Hacks for creating lasting impression with your Non Verbal Communication

If you’re reading this, you probably have an important client meeting, presentation or interview coming up. When situations like these occur, your body reacts with butterflies in your stomach, dryness in your mouth, sweaty palms and a clogged throat. But what you’re most afraid of is letting your inner apprehensions show on the outside. Right?

?Given the fact it Within the first seven seconds of meeting, people will have a solid impression of who you are and some research suggests a tenth of a second is all it takes to start determining traits like trustworthiness. That isn't enough time to talk about your history, charm your new contact, or make up for any initial blunders.

In order to appear confident, you need to have high self-awareness to be able to change your body language slowly but surely. It is all a matter of knowing what to do in certain situations. You may speak confidently, but if your body language doesn’t match what you’re saying, research shows that your listener will choose to believe your non-verbal cues over your words. So you can probably guess how big a part non-verbal cues play.

When you’re body language is poor, it tells a lot about your level of self-esteem and confidence, so here are a few tips to get you started:

?1) Attire

It is said that you should dress for the job you want, not what you have. This is true if you want to be taken seriously. Dressing for the occasion gives you confidence and also makes a subconscious impression on the recipient.

2) Handshake:

Most interactions begin with handshakes. Giving a firm, friendly one while maintaining eye contact sets a positive tone for the interaction. Avoid limp handshakes or death grips!

3) Power of posture:?

Studies show that standing confidently, even when you don’t feel confident affects your brain’s testosterone and cortisol levels and makes you feel confident. It allows you to engage with ease, and when you lean slightly forward, it shows the recipient that you’re interested in what they have to say. So keep your back straight and head held high.

4) Creating a Presence:

Ever notice how some people have an aura about them? The kind that can silence a room with a single look? It’s important to create one for yourself by taking up as much space as you can, by keeping your shoulders squared and stance open.

5) Eye contact:?

By looking at someone in their eyes, it conveys trust, confidence and attention. Dodgy eyes convey that you’re not sure of yourself, are lying or hesitating, are simply not prepared and hence, not willing to connect meaningfully. On the other hand, too much eye contact may make you seem intimidating or desperate, so balance well.

6) Facial Expression:?

Keeping a straight face with no expression makes one seem robotic whereas too much expression can appear too theatrical. Use facial expressions which compliment your verbal language to express seriousness, curiosity, agreement etc. when and where required. Also read the other persons face to get an inkling of their thoughts.

7) Gestures:?

Use your hands to illustrate a point though small, relaxed movements that compliment your words. Huge hand motions can be distracting while gestures like touching your face and playing with your hair symbolize uncertainty. So make small hand movements sparingly to convey confidence and likeability.

8) Voice:

“It’s not what you say, but how you say it” that makes an impact. Keep a steady, natural tone and moderate pitch when you speak. Also remember to speak slowly and clearly, articulating every word as you do so. Taking pauses portrays authority and trustworthiness.

9) Engagement:?

Don’t do all the talking as it could get monotonous and boring for the listener. Engage actively to grab attention and turn your body towards the person you are speaking too. Remember to show interest and direct the flow of the conversation according to what your listener says or asks.

10) Smile:?

A happy, smiling face with smiling eyes and a smiling mouth is always a pleasure to engage with. Keep a cheerful disposition as you talk, but ensure it is authentic as a fake smile is an easy giveaway.

These minor cues or ‘tell’ will help you command attention, make a lasting impression and get people to sit up and listen to you. Practice them until it becomes second nature. Good luck!