Body language is an essential skill used by a lot of people that can enhance any conversation, as well as drive a point through. However, if we’re not careful, we may end up doing more harm than good.
Conversations usually go well when we’re conversing with people we already know. However, when we’re talking with someone we barely know, our brain tries to rashly categorise the person’s preferences, tendencies and personality type, as well as how we should react to them. If you want to learn how to communicate effectively, consider joining the communication skills training course from PD Training in Hong Kong.
They say it takes a few seconds to make a first impression. In reality, your brain has already decided milliseconds upon meeting a person. This is due to our evolutionary survival mechanism where our brain decides on the information it has on how we become in terms of traits. There is a way to hack this though and it is through our awareness of our body language. Regardless of what we may be doing, just being mindful of our body language can influence how people perceive us as well as sway the outcome of the situation to our favour.
So what are the body language mistakes we should look out for?
- Leaning back too much can make you come off as lazy or arrogant.
- Leaning forward makes you seem aggressive. Always settle for a neutral position.
- Cutting off your eye contact too soon makes you come off as nervous or not trustworthy.
- Don’t nod too much. Just nod once and remain still.
- Pointing or chopping with your hand comes across as aggressive.
- Crossing your arms especially when you’re being asked a question makes you look defensive. It is always best to keep your arms at your side.
- Avoid fidgeting as it shows how nervous you are.
- Not making eye contact or looking up or around can show when someone is lying or not being themself.
- Staring can come across as aggressive. Try to minimise it.
- Never fail to smile, especially when meeting someone for the first time. It makes people uncomfortable.
- Standing with your hands on your hips is considered an aggressive posture, just like some animals puffing themselves up to look bigger.
- Stepping back when you’re asked for a decision expresses fear or uncertainty. Always stand your ground and take a slight step forward for conviction.
- Checking your watch or phone is bad manners, and it tells the other person that you’re not interested in being there.
Go through the list and try to practise how you would do them. Stand in front of a mirror to see how you look like when you’re practising. You can also ask a friend to help you out by reminding you every time you make a mistake. Remember, practise makes perfect. The more you do the correct habits, the more it will become natural to you.
Be the best that you can be and join the communication skills training course of PD Training in Hong Kong.
PD Training delivers thousands of professional development courses each year in Hong Kong so you can be assured your training will be delivered by a qualified and experienced trainer.
All public communication skills training course include am/pm tea, lunch, printed courseware and a certificate of completion. Customised courses are available upon request so please contact pdtraining at [email protected] to learn more.