Body language at the workplace is just as important toward colleagues and your boss, as what comes out of your mouth.
Everything from your body position to the expression on your face can say a lot about your thoughts and feelings.
Here are a few tips to follow to make sure that you are sending the correct message –
1~ Facial Expression. Your facial expression is the first thing that others notice. Make time to pay attention to your facial expressions during different situations at work. You may discover that you are unintentionally furrowing your eyebrows – signaling to others that you’re frustrated. Remember that eye contact is also very important to show people that you are fully paying attention to them.
2~ Posture. How you stand can represent to others how confident you are. Be sure to stand tall and avoid slouching, even when sitting at your desk. During meetings, sit up straight and lean forward slightly – which shows that you are present in the discussion. If you cross your legs, make sue not to fidget by shaking your foot under the table.
3~ Smile. Be sure to have a positive, warm welcoming face to everyone. You can obtain this by having a sincere smile with bright eyes.
4~ Never Fold Your Arms. Folding your arms can look as though you are trying to create a barrier between you and others. Always try to create a welcoming look by smiling and keeping your arms at your sides.
5~ Don’t Fidget. Keep track of your hands. While others are talking to you, be sure to look at them and make sure that your hands are kept still. Tapping a pen on the desk, or fidgeting with a paper clip in your hand can reflect nervousness or boredom – this is not only distracting to others, but disrespectful.
It may take some time to make yourself aware of your own body language, but it’s very important to recognize what you may be unconsciously doing at the office. Once you identify your bad habits, begin working on them quickly before you offend others and they become an unprofessional habit.
