You may be making body language mistakes and leading people to interpret things that really aren’t true or that you don’t want them to see! Our body language gives out lots of cues about what we are feeling, thinking and desiring. And certain postures and movements may commonly be interpreted in a certain way, even if you are doing them for a different reason. For example, crossing your arms can often be interpreted as being guarded or closed, but maybe you just feel cold. So learning how your body language may be interpreted is useful so you can control the impression you are making.
The content of this article was discussed on the CTV show called “The Social” where Mark was interviewed by 4 women – very funny with their body language innuendos – but unfortunately it has been archived since this blog was first posted. Below Mark summarizes some of what was discussed.
Body Language Mistakes You’re Making
By Mark Bowden,
The gestures that we often use aren’t always interpreted the way we’d like them to be, so it’s important to know what messages you’re sending without even knowing it.
When you play with your hair…
People interpret that as a flirt signal, which is fine if you’re trying to flirt, but not if you’re in an office setting or at a meeting. It might be totally well intentioned (maybe your hair is in your eyes) but that’s not how the people watching you will likely perceive it. They’ll think you’re flirting with them. If you’re prone to hair touching, just lace your fingers together – you’re far less likely to subconsciously play with your hair.
When you lean back during conversation…
It suggests that you’re not interested. Leaning back doesn’t just mean leaning back with your body. It also includes moving your eyes away, looking down, prominently displaying your chin/neck… any mix of leaning back and doing those things can cause you to easily look disengaged and arrogant. Instead, sit up straight in your chair, tilt your head to one side and hyperfocus on leaning forward and making good eye contact.