Getting Your Body Language Down is Imperative in Life: 11 Tricks to Communicate More Effectively

Communication is an essential part of life, whether it’s in the business world, in a personal relationship, or even as a deli clerk. Knowing how to communicate effectively with people is crucial, and it’s not just about what you’re saying- up to 93% of communication is non-verbal. This means that understanding body language and the messages it conveys is imperative to effective communication. Here are 11 tricks to help you better understand body language and improve your communication skills.

1. Use mirroring

Mirroring is a technique where you subtly mimic the other person’s movements and actions. By doing so, you build a rapport and connection with the person. You don’t need to copy every single movement, but subtle actions such as crossing your arms when they do, speaking softly when they do or maintaining eye contact when they do, can make a huge impact in making an individual feel understood and connected.

2. Don’t make unnecessary adjustments

Making unnecessary adjustments such as crossing your arms over your body to adjust your cuff link or watch, can reveal your insecurities to the world. When you do this, you are displaying discomfort, which can communicate to the other person that you are nervous, anxious, or uncomfortable with the situation. Thus, it is important to avoid making unnecessary adjustments as it can make you appear uneasy.

3. Do the power pose

The power pose is when you extend your arms up and over your head, creating a V-shape over your head. This pose has been proven to increase testosterone in individuals, which leads to increased confidence, leadership attribute, and a better sense of self. This is a great pose to employ when you’re feeling nervous in a big meeting or presentation.

4. Uncross those legs

Crossing one’s legs can convey a sense of resistance and aversion. When discussing things that require negotiation such as a new car purchase or a raise, it is not ideal to display resistance. Avoid crossing your legs as it may suggest that you are apprehensive and more resistant.

5. Laugh to really connect

Laughter is a bonding mechanism, and it conveys to others that you are a fun, exciting, and interesting person. It shows that you are not only listening but are fully engaged in the conversation. Laughing is perfect for business, personal relationships, and just about any situation where you want to connect with others.

6. Uncross your arms

Crossing your arms conveys skepticism and defensiveness; this can create a sense of distance from the person with whom you are communicating. Leave your arms uncrossed for a more open posture that can build greater rapport and connection in the moment.

7. Lift your chin up

Lifting the chin displays a sense of pride, confidence, and dominance. It shows that you are secure with who you are and confident in the conversation at hand. Individuals who keep their head down are more susceptible to feeling inferior or vulnerable.

8. Keep your palms up

Palms up conveys trust, openness, and honesty. It displays your sincerity and authentic self, which helps build a foundation of trust between you and the person you are communicating with. This openness can effectively convey your trustworthiness in business, marketing, or any situation where honesty and integrity are crucial.

9. Nod your head

Nodding your head when listening to someone speak demonstrates that you are actively engaged in the conversation, accepting, and in agreement with what they are saying. Doing this often and gently will make them feel heard and connected. It helps to establish a deeper level of understanding and respect of each other’s perspective.

10. Refrain from tapping your foot

Fidgeting in any way may convey boredom, disinterest, or even anxiety. In some cases, slower movement or stillness may convey focus and attention on the discussion in progress. Refrain from tapping your foot or otherwise engaging in restlessness when you want the other party to feel heard and valued.

11. Gently touch the person on the arm

Light touches on the arm, playful pats on the shoulder, or other light and non-intimate touches build a connection between people in a mental and emotional way. The key here is to display physical touch that is reassuring and will not make the other party uncomfortable. Appropriate physical touch can be valuable when establishing a new connection or fostering a sense of trust and closeness.

In conclusion, communication is a crucial aspect of life. Understanding body language is an integral part of communication that cannot be ignored. By utilizing these 11 tricks, you can improve your body language and communicate more effectively, ensuring that you are better understood and connected with those around you. With these tricks up your sleeve, you can become a better communicator in both your personal and professional life.