I’m finishing out the year with a back-to-basics 5-post review of the fundamentals of body language. In this era of #metoo, it’s incumbent upon all of us to be aware of our body language — what we’re projecting, what other people are receiving — our intention, in short. If you were thinking of making 2018 the year you finally got conscious of your unconscious behavior, now is the time to review what’s going on and what’s at stake. Enjoy!
To sum up this review of the basics of body language, here’s a final checklist of what we’ve discussed.
The Face-to-Face Communications Checklist: How to Make a Great First Impression
Posture
Put down the mobile phone and stand up straight
Pull your shoulders back, tuck your stomach and pelvis in
Lift your head, keeping your chin level
Lead with your heart
The Face
Smile
Open your eyes; don’t narrow them
Raise your eyebrows
Nod affirmatively
The Hands
Keep your hands open, not closed in front of your stomach
Give a firm but not crushing handshake
Don’t groom your face or hair
The Voice
Take a deep belly breath before you speak
Speak affirmatively
Don’t ask questions unless you want to ask a question – no uptick
Don’t swallow your voice
Don’t speak from the back of your throat or from your nose
Motion
Move toward people, but don’t get too close – eighteen inches in the West, eight inches in the East, is close enough.
Keep your torso still, but relaxed
Focus on your solar plexus
Here’s to an intentional, conscious, clearly communicating you in 2018!
I never met you in person but you are the best!!
Thank you for taking the time to teach me.
José Cancel
Thanks, Jose!
Nick, This is a practical, concise and comprehensive list. As the author of How To Work a Room and Face To Face; Reclaim the Personal Touch, I find your list to be a must-read, must do that encapsulates the best body language and behaviors.
Susan — thanks for the kind words, coming from an expert! There is of course lots more to body language than this checklist, something I explore in my books and blog, but people do like the quick summaries.
I like the quick summary, even if it is always not true
Thanks, Gayle!
What do observable tattoos do to the face to face contacts?
Not sure Tim — I haven’t heard of any research on the subject.
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