What's Your Body Language Saying?

At work or at an interview, you probably think a lot about?what you’re going to say — and how you’re going to say it. Here’s what else you want to be thinking about: according to research, approximately 90% of information transmitted to the brain is visual!

Think about it: How often do you look at the way people are dressed, the way they carry themselves, and the confidence or awkwardness of their interactions — and make assumptions about who they are? If he’s checking out his phone wile on a Zoom call, you may think he's completely disengaged. If she’s walking at a rapid pace, you may assume she’s rigid or late. Right or wrong, accurate or incorrect, we assume and we assign. And people do the same with us!

Those assumptions may or may not have a direct and immediate impact on your life — in the workplace, how others perceive you is extremely important to your success. So, how can you make sure you’re coming across as you intend — professional, confident, and engaged? Check out these easy strategies for making sure your body is?sending the right message. Quick tip: Body language is often subtle, so pay attention to the details!

To Shake or Not To Shake?

Often times, your handshake is one of the first ways others evaluate you. Of course, we’re speaking about business etiquette in the United States, because as we know a handshake is not always expected or respected in other countries as it is in the U.S.?Think back to the last time someone shook your hand. Was it clammy and weak? A finger shake? An overbearing grab? Or a firm-but-relaxed greeting that conveyed confidence and capability?

The latter is exactly what you want. To achieve this, first, make eye contact and smile. Both facial expressions show that you’re confident, friendly, and approachable. Then, extend your hand for a firm, brief handshake: you want the "web" (the fleshy part between your index finger and your thumb) to meet the other person’s, then wrap your fingers around his/her hand, and pump two or three times. Remember to pump from your elbow—not your wrist or shoulder while maintaining eye contact the entire time! This isn’t necessarily as easy as it sounds.

If you're in a virtual environment, you'll want to make eye contact and smile upon entering the virtual meeting room. The purpose behind a handshake is to build rapport. A welcoming smile and eye contact are key to establishing rapport over a virtual medium where a handshake is not an option.

Stand Up Straight

Having good posture is good for business. Whether you’re seated or standing, your posture can say that you’re interested and engaged—or exactly the opposite.

When you’re seated in a meeting or interview, sit so that your entire back is not resting on the back of the chair. This prevents slouching (which naturally occurs when you’re sitting), plus it can give off the impression that you’re too comfortable.

Plant your feet on the floor or cross your legs at the knees—though this is generally seen as more casual and relaxed, it’s absolutely appropriate. Ladies, you can also cross your legs at the ankles or press your knees together, slanting your legs to one side. (Just remember that no matter how you cross your legs, a skirt becomes shorter when you sit!)

When you’re standing, put your shoulders back, keep your arms open and approachable, and distribute your weight evenly between both legs. Be still—fidgeting or shifting conveys that you’re nervous or anxious. Quick tip: there is a difference between being still and being stiff. The former is always what you want to achieve!

Mind Your Mannerisms

Of course, it can be awkward to sit, stand, or talk and not know what to do with your arms and hands. People often solve this by crossing their arms over their chest or by fidgeting.

The best, most professional stance is to keep your arms at your sides or in the “conversation zone” (an invisible box from chest to belly button ribs to ribs). If you can keep your hands in this invisible “square” you appear open, confident, and approachable.?If this feels uncomfortable, make sure you have something to hold, like a notebook or coffee cup. Avoid sticking your hands in your pockets, which can convey shyness or discomfort.

Also try to think about the movements of your hands. Your mannerisms should be small and intentional, and never a distraction to what you are saying. Using too much movement when you're speaking may give the impression that you’re emotional or?nervous. Hand gestures, such as pointing at someone, versus an open hand, can easily be misinterpreted as angry, an ultimatum, or an accusation.

Face It

Your facial expressions can speak volumes about your thoughts and emotions.

Think about what your face is saying, even when your mouth isn’t moving.?A sincere smile will always make you appear neutral, friendly, and approachable. Keep meaningful eye contact with the person who’s speaking (and try to look at everyone in the room when you’re talking). Looking off to the side (or down at your phone) convey different messages—and probably not the ones you want to send.

Whether or not you're doing any talking, your body language will make some strong statements for you – and it’s all in the details. So pay just as much attention to what you’re doing when you're listening as you do to when you're speaking.

ABOUT LAURA KATEN

Laura Katen is the Founder/President of KATEN CONSULTING, a NY-based professional development training company that specializes in 4 core areas: Executive Presence, Communication, Presentation Strategies, and Business & Social Etiquette. KATEN CONSULTING is a 100% Certified Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE), facilitating Keynote Talks, Group Programs, and One-On-One Coaching Sessions. Laura is a published author of two books, How to Communicate With Confidence, Clarity, and Credibility, and The Communication Habit: Strategies That Set You Apart and Leave a Lasting Impression ? McGraw Hill