7 Body Language Signals to Avoid
By Rachel Wagner
From The Savvy Professional, July 2010
Your body language is nonverbal, but it often speaks before you do.
And, since 60 percent of your communication is through body language, you want the messages it sends to be an asset to your professional presence, not a hindrance.
Think for a moment—what message does your body language send when a coworker takes credit for your work, or someone disagrees with your point of view in a meeting, or you have to mingle and make small talk at a business social?
No matter the circumstances, it’s important to think about the pit falls that can occur with body language. Body language that comes across negative, disapproving, or aggressive can make people take you less seriously and can damage relationships and business deals. But, body language that communicates in a positive way can enhance work relationships and perceptions of you and your company.
Here are seven body language blunders to avoid.
Folding your arms across your chest: This can make you look unapproachable or can indicate that you disagree with someone’s point of view. It would be permissible only if you are “mirroring” a person with whom you have already established rapport.
Hand in pocket: This makes you appear nervous and lacking confidence. It’s considered disrespectful around the globe, especially during an introduction and hand shake. It’s best to try to keep your hands at your side and use them only for effective gesturing.
Inappropriate eye contact: In a business conversation, too little eye contact makes you appear disinterested. Too much eye contact can make the other person feel intimidated or put on the spot. Aim for direct eye contact 40-60% of the time. When talking in a small group, make eye contact with everyone; don’t focus on only one person.
Slouching or poor posture: This can suggest lack of confidence. When you stand, keep your back straight, middle section in alignment with your back, shoulders back, and head up. This posture implies comfort with yourself and ease with the situation.
Annoying mannerisms: Avoid clicking your pen, drumming your fingers, or jiggling your knee when sitting. These distracting mannerisms make you appear nervous and annoy those near you.
Not respecting personal space: In the United States business arena, one’s “personal bubble” during conversation with someone is about 18-24 inches. Standing farther apart or closer can make others feel uncomfortable.
A lousy handshake: A handshake gives an immediate first impression. Avoid giving a limp handshake, a “bone crusher” or one that engages only the fingers. To give an impression of confidence, warmth and sincerity, make sure your handshake connects web to web (the area between the thumb and index finger), that it’s firm, and is only two shakes or pumps.
Successful professionals use their body language to an advantage. If you steer clear of these damaging body language signals, you will appear more confident, approachable, and friendly—all plusses in the business arena.
Rachel Wagner is a certified corporate etiquette and international protocol consultant and founder of the business etiquette firm, Rachel Wagner Etiquette and Protocol. She trains leadership teams on the topics of business and dining etiquette to polish their professional presence and the image of their company. Rachel is active with the American Society for Training and Development and the National Speaker’s Association. She is author of a popular e-zine, The Savvy Professional, and is frequently quoted in the media. She can be reached by phone at 918.970.4400 or by email at Rachel@EtiquetteTrainer.com. Website: www.EtiquetteTrainer.com.
