11 Ways to Improve Your Body Language

The worldwide web defines Body language as a type of nonverbal communication in which physical behaviours, as opposed to words, are used to express or convey the information. Such behaviour includes facial expressions, body posture, gestures, eye movement, touch and the use of space.

It can also be defined as the conscious and unconscious movements and postures by which attitudes and feelings are communicated.

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1. The first step to improving your body language is awareness. Start to pay attention to everything you do, and when you do it. Awareness is half the battle
2. A smile costs nothing but does a lot. It makes you more open and acceptable and portrays you as a friendly person.
3. Keep an open space with your upper body torso and don’t fold your arms, hug your bag or put things on your as they make you seem unapproachable.
4. Make eye contact as it is important to make and establish connections.
5. Be comfortable in your space and do not fidget or squirm. Try to not be uncomfortable in public places
6. Minimize movements like the drumming of fingers, biting of nails, peeling of the skin, playing with your drink, or straw, an earring, or a bottle cap as they tend to distract and can also be a sign of nervousness.
7. If you are a fast talker, you should slow down your pace as talking fast can be termed as being nervous.
8. Be inclusive in your actions and reduce the physical distance between you and the other person. Smile, maintain eye contact and make sporadic movements towards the person you are talking to.
9. Be open and expressive about how you are feeling. Whether sad, happy or even surprised, show it on your face.
10. Pace yourself to match with the person you are having a conversation with. Assess the person and adopt the body language that will help you best connect with him or her.
11. Be aware of how you cross your arms and legs and also the direction your cross them in. Note that crossing your legs in a “figure four” fashion with your ankle resting on your knee can be seen as being stubborn or arrogant.