Your smile - relaxed and sincere slightly open - use all face muscles Eye contact - steady relaxed - about 5 seconds Windows of the soul, excellent are indicators of feelings. Shifty eyes, beady eyes and look of steel demonstrate awareness. Honest person has a tendency to look you straight in the eye when speaking. At least listeners accept it like that
Appearance – Is your appearance appropriate for the situation? Are you well groomed and clean? Is your hair combed? Is your clothing clean and neat? Do you ‘stand out’ from the crowd or blend in? Your appearance - good personal hygiene - simple clothing - clean, sharp, and ironed - coordinated - solid, neutral colors limited accessories Differences between men and women
Posture - Position your head and body squarely in line with the other person. By facing towards a person, you show genuine interest in what they have to say. Don't stand too close or to far away when you talk to another person. Be respectful of personal space. Remember to stand and sit up straight when speaking - don't slouch. • Don't cross your arms or legs - This is the biggest mistake when it comes to negative body language. You come across as defensive or guarded when crossing your arms or legs. Keep your body open when communicating with others. Nod your head once in awhile- When a person is speaking directly to you, nod once in awhile to send the message that you are listening. Don't over do it and bob your head every few seconds. • Slow down your actions - Whether you are walking or talking, slow down your actions. It gives others the impression of ease and confidence (especially when addressing a crowd). From our body • The way we move - walk, stand and sit – Walk » an assertive, purposeful person will take longer, slower and more definite strides » Less confident counterparts may scurry, plod and shuffle – Standing (Posture) » Stand with feet side by side » Keep legs straight but not tense » Breath slowly and evenly » Roll your shoulders back » Lift chin slightly – Sitting » Sit squarely and neatly » Your back should be firmly parallel to the back of the chair » Arm should be folded loosely on your lap » Your leg should be folded or crossed tidily. Greetings – Your accessibility style » Passive approach / Active approach » Body talk