Difficult Client Conversations? Manage Your Body Language

Many people under estimate the power of body language and communication, especially when it comes to communicating with their clients. In this book except, Catherine Bell gives you some tips in communication management.

Many people underestimate the power of body language in communication.

When it contradicts what you are saying, body language will be believed ahead of your words.  For example, if you say you’re excited, but you’re slouched in a chair with an expression of boredom on your face, your mock enthusiasm will be abundantly clear.

Because body language is so influential, keep in mind these five points to ensure good communication:

1. No body movement or position in and of itself has a precise meaning.  For example, the folding of one’s arms could mean that one is defensive, relaxed or simply cold.

2. Look at the whole body, not just one aspect at a time.  If a person isn’t smiling, it doesn’t necessarily suggest sadness but perhaps that she or he is concentrating on other things.

3. Although you can consciously control things such as your facial expressions, your gestures from the waist down, such as the direction your feet are pointing, can reveal to others what the unconscious part of your brain is thinking.

4. Read body language in context.  What topic is being discussed? Who else is present? Has the person had enough sleep?

5. People will unconsciously mirror the emotions they see in you.  When you appear confident, they will also think that you are and will be more likely to believe what you are saying.

Purposely use your body language to communicate what you intend. This will help you develop good relationships and increase your presence. 

Excerpt from Empower Your Presence: How to Build True Wealth with Your Personal Brand and Image, © Knowledge Bureau 2013

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