The Silent Language

More than half of human communication occurs nonverbally.1 As we speak, we're unconsciously moving, positioning ourselves and sending a wide variety of signals to those around us. And if our words and body language clash or send different messages, guess what people are going to pay attention to?

By understanding body language, you can enhance your communication skills, credibility and, ultimately, your leadership power. Here are a few of the most commonly recurring suggestions: Keep your arms, legs and feet relaxed and uncrossed to express openness. By crossing your hands across your chest, or crossing your leg above your knee, you are indicating that you are defensive and uncomfortable. Move within 6 to 8 feet of the person you're speaking to and lean slightly forward to indicate that you are interested in the person and willing to cooperate. Leaning backward, on the other hand, demonstrates aloofness, rejection or defensiveness. Maintain direct eye contact but don't stare. Look at the person you're speaking to most of the time, but occasionally glance to the side. If he or she avoids looking at you, they are not interested in what you are saying. But be aware that while in most cultures direct eye contact signals sincerity, in others, such as Asian, Hispanic and Native American cultures, it can be disrespectful. Use natural, spontaneous gestures to emphasize your point. Make sure they are appropriate for the words you're expressing and the audience you're addressing. Each gesture should be a distinct, clearly visible movement. Hand gestures should involve the total arm and shoulder. Keep your wrists and hands relaxed and use broad, slow, expansive gestures for large audiences. When giving a presentation, never move without a reason. Substitute purposeful movement for nervous movement such as rocking, swaying or pacing. Step forward to signal that you are arriving at an important point. Step back to conclude an idea or let the audience digest what you've said. Step sideways to signal a transition from one thought to another. Be aware of what you do with your face. Smile often, but not all the time, or you will appear less credible. Don't lick, bite, or click your lips, tighten the jaws, frown or twitch, or you will appear nervous. Also avoid clearing your throat, whistling, smoking, fidgeting, covering your mouth, jiggling money or keys, tugging your ears and wringing your hands. Tapping your feet, chewing your fingernails or pens, and fiddling with objects indicates insecurity. REFERENCE 1. Toastmasters International. Gestures: Your body speaks. Accessed via www.presentersuniversity.com/listing/courses/body.htm.