Seeing What You’re Not Hearing

LinkedIn is a wonderful source for information. No matter what your industry, chances are there is someone on LinkedIn writing about it. I was so excited to see that, only a few days ago, Dr. Travis Bradberry of TalentSmart wrote an article about body language and how it can totally change a message. Many times, we forget just how much our body language shares about us. That’s why it is essential to be aware of what message our nonverbal cues are sharing. Body language can make a massive difference in how we are perceived during an interview, sales visit, meeting with a supervisor, or a lunch meeting with a coworker. It’s imperative to match your nonverbal message to your verbal message.  Here are a few examples of how body language can change a message:

1. Arm crossing. A lot of people do this without thinking, but it can have a negative impact on how people perceive you. For example, your supervisor may be sharing an idea to improve a process within the office.  Even though you may think it’s an effective idea and you say so verbally, by crossing your arms you seem more like you’re resistant or opposed to the idea. No one likes mixed messages! If you really want to show you’re interest, lean forward into the conversation.
2. Standing up straight.  Everyone is told that good posture is important, right? In the workplace, good posture is particularly important. By standing up straight, you’re sharing the visual cue that you’re not afraid to take up space- you are confident in yourself and what you’re doing.
3. Exaggerated nodding. Giving a sporadic nod during a conversation isn’t all that strange. It shows you are listening and engaged in the topic. However, when you cross the line into nodding at every word, you seem desperate. Excessive nodding makes people believe you are seeking approval even when it is not needed.

Dr. Bradberry gives a few other examples of both positive and negative body language. It is important to know what your nonverbal message is sharing with others, and that is why many career counselors recommend an in-person mock interview or a video mock interview so you can get feedback on the image you project. To see more examples of nonverbal cues, click here: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/great-tricks-reading-peoples-body-language-dr-travis-bradberry?utm_campaign=RoundUp&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=28042831&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_rZ75QGfwCOoA4mdLeNwHMPpHAnd9dXavYwGWmWdkA3uW3jny2jv3dRQLiRkZCJ9HHkbCL9-29BLzY27hN1HYNLeM-Lw&_hsmi=28042831

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When Actions Speak Louder Than Words

When Actions Speak Louder Than Words

We often mention the importance of knowing what to say during an interview.  It’s always good to use positive words, have solid examples, etc.  However, what your body says is just as important as what your mouth says.  Folding your arms can make you seem closed off, and staring off into space and avoiding eye contact can come across as though you aren’t totally focused on the interviewer.  Careerealism has 5 things you should focus on during your interview to make sure your body language matches your verbal language.  Don’t forget, you only get one chance to make a good impression, and with some interviewers, your body language will be your first impression.  Don’t let fidgeting get in the way of a new job or internship!