As a professional in any industry, mastering body language can be a powerful tool for success. Whether you’re in a job interview, a business meeting, or networking at an event, the way you carry yourself can make a lasting impression. Starting with my first internship, I always make it a point to notice my peers, clients and other professionals at work and observe their body language. The simplest things can make all of the difference when connecting with others, and they can help you make more meaningful professional connections throughout your career. Here are ten body language habits that can elevate your professional presence.
Mastering Professional Body Language: 10 Habits for Success
Maintaining Eye Contact. Maintaining steady eye contact demonstrates confidence and attentiveness. It shows that you are engaged and actively listening to the person you’re speaking with. Breaking eye contact to check your phone often, staring at others walking by, or simply looking out the window while speaking with somebody can be real turnoff and give them the impression that you’re not interested in speaking with them.
Strong Handshake. A firm handshake can convey strength, confidence, and professionalism. It’s important to find the right balance – not too weak, not too aggressive – to leave a positive impression. I’ll be honest, there is something about a weak or soft handshake that I find not cool. This might sound really judgmental, but growing up as an athlete, I learned that a strong handshake sends a signal that you’re confident and that you mean business.
Good Posture. Sitting or standing up straight not only promotes better health but also conveys confidence and professionalism. It shows that you take yourself seriously and command respect. If you don’t have good posture, it might take some time for it to ‘stick’. Once you have it, good posture is a really easy habit to keep going.
Active Listening. Demonstrate your attentiveness by nodding and facing the speaker. Show that you’re actively engaged in the conversation and interested in what they have to say.
Open Body Language. Avoid crossing your arms or legs, as it can signal defensiveness or disinterest. Instead, keep your body language open and approachable by facing towards others and keeping your arms relaxed at your sides. This might not be a big deal when you’re a seasoned employee, but when you’re interviewing, networking, or starting a new job, this can make a huge difference.
Smiling. A genuine smile can instantly make you more likable and approachable. It helps to build rapport and create a positive atmosphere during interactions. I’m typically pretty timid in new environments, however, I learned that approaching a check-in table, a group of networkers, or a stranger one-on-one with a smile can quickly make turn a new meeting into a great conversation.
Mirroring. Subtly mirroring the body language of the person you’re speaking with can foster a sense of connection and understanding. Pay attention to their posture and gestures and try to reflect them in a natural and non-obvious way.
Moderate Gestures. Using appropriate hand gestures can enhance communication and make your message more engaging. However, be mindful of excessive or distracting movements that can detract from your professionalism. I use my hands pretty often when talking, a trait I inherited from my parents. If you’re not a natural ‘hand gesturer’, start by emphasizing a few words every few sentences. There are also videos you can watch online that can show you how to incorporate gestures into your daily dialog.
Personal Space. Respect others’ personal space to maintain comfort and boundaries. Be mindful of cultural differences and adjust your proximity accordingly. I despise it when people talk super close to me. Personal space is a big deal for me and a lot of others, so, unless you’re on a crowded subway car- be mindful of personal space during conversations.
Confident Walk. Your body language begins before you even speak, so make sure to walk with purpose and confidence. A confident gait can command attention and leave a positive impression from the moment you enter a room. One tip- ditch your cell phone when walking into a room. While you might be nervous in new social situations (that’s me at almost every event), keep your phone in your pocket and check it sparingly throughout the evening.
Mastering these body language habits takes practice and self-awareness, but the effort is well worth it. By paying attention to how you present yourself nonverbally, you can enhance your professional presence, build rapport with others, and achieve greater success in your career endeavors.