Speaking Without Your Voice
Speaking Without Your Voice!
An insight into the power of body language.
As humans, we have a natural tendency to form quick opinions about people, with some experts suggesting that it takes only seven seconds to create a first impression!
The human brain is hardwired to make snap judgments about people. The brain is wired to pick up on subtle body language cues such as eye contact, posture, facial expressions, and crossed arms, which can reveal much about a person.
This automatic ability to judge and categorise is because we’ve become highly attuned to picking up on subtle body language. We get a lot of information from what we see in another person’s body language.
To avoid being misinterpreted, paying attention to your body language is essential. Here are some common body language issues we all make:
- Avoiding eye contact may make you appear untrustworthy
- Not smiling can make you seem welcoming.
- Glancing around the room or at your phone can be perceived as rude or distracted.
- Folding your arms gives off unwelcoming or closed-off vibes.
- Keeping your hands limp at your sides can convey a lack of emotional investment. When we’re passionate or animated, we tend to use our hands.
- Hidden hands can make you seem untrustworthy, as we tend to associate unknown hand movements with possible threats.
So what do you do with your hands? To project a confident and approachable image, keep your gestures gentle and your arms at a 45-degree angle, about shoulder-width apart. This stance will make you appear grounded, energised and focused.
Please let me know if you have any questions regarding the material covered in this blog or if you’d like to reach out to discuss strategies to improve the relationships in your life. I’m here to help!
I hope you have enjoyed this information. Until next time!
Emma Alexander-Cook.