What you don't say - Body language in the workplace

When giving a presentation or simply having a conversation, it is important that you have something to say.

Without a structured framework as well as well-thought-out sentences and arguments, you will quickly bore your conversation partner. Even more important in such situations is that you support what you say with your body language. Because no matter how carefully you choose your words - if what you convey nonverbally does not match, you won't be able to convince anyone. Especially in professional life, it is essential how others perceive you. Your posture, tone of voice, facial expressions, and gestures play a big role in how business partners and colleagues assess you. Often, these factors determine success or failure. Body language in the workplace is very important. Improve Your Presence Therefore, it is worthwhile to work on your body language in the workplace. A confident appearance conveys competence and authority, but also openness towards your conversation partners or customers, which in turn ensures that you are taken seriously and any weaknesses are overlooked. It starts with the greeting. The handshake is the first criterion that determines whether you are perceived as likable. The right balance is crucial here. If it is too weak, this characteristic will be attributed to you as a person. Of course, you must not crush the other person's hand either. This will be seen as an attempt to exert dominance. Maintain eye contact for a few seconds. This will make you appear sincere. Lowering your gaze is seen as a sign of insincerity, and if you let your eyes wander around the room, you will appear inattentive and absent. Speak with Your Whole Body The same applies during a conversation. Listeners should maintain eye contact continuously to signal attention, but speakers should interrupt it after a few seconds and then re-establish it shortly thereafter. Without these pauses, it becomes uncomfortable, as the other person may feel stared at. Not only the eyes, but the rest of your body can also help to make your words come across correctly and to support them. Use your hands to support what you say. The right gestures ensure that you appear self-assured and competent. Look at speeches by politicians - they are often well trained in this regard. Under no circumstances should you hide your hands. This will be perceived as a clear indication that you either have something to hide or are uninterested. The same goes for crossed arms. Stand and sit up straight, without looking tense. A confident and relaxed posture will make others feel comfortable in your presence and subconsciously perceive you as trustworthy. Simply adhering to these basic rules will significantly improve your body language in the workplace and how you come across to others. If you want to delve deeper, you should download the free e-book by business coaches Benedikt Ahlfeld and Anna Lassoncyk here. Consider Cultural Differences In it, you will also find a chapter on the most common pitfalls to avoid when dealing with international business partners. Everyone knows that the Japanese bow when greeting. But few may be aware that they express sorrow with a smile. Or that the same gesture in sub-Saharan Africa is seen as a sign of surprise. And in different cultural circles, other nonverbal communication tools have partially opposite meanings. Therefore, anyone working with international clients and companies should thoroughly inform themselves beforehand to avoid embarrassing misunderstandings or even insults.