Presenting yourself is one of the most important parts of an entrepreneur’s job. One of the keys to command powerful presence is how you communicate through your body language. Think of powerful leaders, celebrities? Obama, Beckham, Oprah.
Body language is like any other language in the world… it’s made up of words: Body Language words are interpreted by gestures, postures, facial expressions, eye movements.
Positive body language can be defined as these nonverbal movements and gestures that are communicating interest, enthusiasm, and positive reactions to what some else are saying. How you communicate with your body is important because research show that 60% to 90% of communication is nonverbal. Body language is considered the most important aspect of communication as it sends signals to how we are truly feeling and people make up their minds about others in just the first four seconds.
Here are some body language ideas for being open:
Posture: Keep a relaxed posture whether you are sitting or standing. This will reinforce the idea that you feel comfortable with your surroundings.
Take up space: You do not have to sprawl out but try sitting or standing with your legs apart a bit. This will signify to others that you are at ease with yourself.
Arms: Crossing your arms is the visual clue that you are turned-off by what is going on around you.
Hands: Talking with your hands is an easy way to incorporate gestures into your conversation but be careful not to make it a dance party.
Handshake: The handshake is one of the most important nonverbal communication cues because it can set the mood for the entire conversation. A firm handshake will give you instant credibility while a weak handshake will make you appear fragile.
Eye contact: Keep your head up and look the person who you are having a conversation with in the eyes both when they are talking to you and when you are talking to them. Good eye contact lets others know that you are interested in the conversation.
Affirmative movements: You can show empathy with simple actions of agreement like nodding your head or smiling. These actions let people know that you are on their side and that you can identify with their plight.
Checking the time: Looking at a timepiece signals that you do not want to be there and that you have more important things to be doing.
Looking at the ground: This tells people that you are shy or disinterested.
Touching your face: Everyone has a little itch they need to scratch now and again but repeatedly touching your face while speaking with someone is an indication that you are lying.
Fake smile: People know when you are faking a smile so do not even bother trying. A true smile comes from more than just your mouth. It can be seen in your entire face including your eyes.
It’s your turn now!