Non-Verbal Communication
Have you ever noticed that politicians will often use the same type of hand gestures while giving speeches? They are advised not to point and to have an open palm. This is non-verbal communications at work and it’s strategic. Yes, there are communications experts who advise and practice with politicians on the exact way they should move their hands when they are giving speeches or presentations.
In fact, if a communications expert can help politicians increase their chances of getting elected, think about how it can help advance your career!
If you haven’t seriously started to consider your body language and how it can advance your career – the time to start is now.
1. Perception
Are you sitting up straight during a work meeting? Do you make appropriate eye contact with others? Are you always sitting with your arms crossed against your chest?
What you do with your body speaks volumes about you, whether you realize it or not.
You don’t have to say a word for someone to perceive you in a certain way. You may actually be truly listening to someone speaking, but your body language could be telling others that you aren’t. You do not want to be giving off the wrong impression with your body language!
As you go about your day, pay close attention to what signals you are giving. By choosing effective body language techniques, you will be perceived as someone who is engaged and interested in the goals of your company.
2. Confidence
Have you ever watched someone speak during a meeting and it was clear they were feeling nervous? Perhaps it was because they were fidgeting with their hands or they were swaying. This was all via their body language.
The truth is, it’s okay to be nervous – in fact, most people are when they have to give a presentation! The key is to master your body language so that your nervous energy isn’t as noticeable.
3. Your Message
As you advance in your career, one of the most important things you can do is convey your message (your ideas, your proposals and more) in an effective way. If you aren’t communicating effectively, no matter how amazing your ideas are – no one will understand them or take them seriously.
The right body language can help you connect your message to your audience. It will allow your audience to receive the exact message you are sending. Here are some quick tips:
- Shoulders – Relax your shoulders. If your shoulders are too close to your ears you will appear anxious or irritated. No hunching either!
- Hands – Depending on your message your hand gestures should reflect what you are trying to say. Avoid fists and rigid hands. Relax your hands at your side or use them to emphasize a point.
- Feet – If you are standing giving a presentation or speech, keep your feet shoulder-width apart. (A power stance) Don’t buckle your knees. If you are sitting keep your feet from tapping or making any unnecessary movement.
- Hips – Your hips should always be turned towards the person you are engaging with – if not you may seem uninterested in what they have to say.
- Back – Sit up straight! Especially if you are on a video call or an in-person meeting where you aren’t speaking. This is the easiest way to tell if someone is engaged or not!
Your body language can advance your career if you are putting the time and effort into making sure your body language matches your message.
The key is to be aware of what your body language is saying.
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