When nervous entrepreneurs make a presentation or project tangible goals to potential clients and investors, they unknowingly ‘speak’ through body language. There is a very strong reason why it is said that actions and body gestures speak louder than words. Some repeated non-verbal cues tend to impact business needs depending on how they are interpreted. In fact, there are nearly seven subtle signs that your body expresses that send signals to others.
Ideal body language
If you are about to schedule a video meeting during isolation to make a crucial presentation, your only chance is to use the ideal body language to make the appropriate impact. This business opportunity might depend on the non-verbal cues you send out. This blog presents some classic pointers on communicating naturally and attracting people towards your business goals.
Be sensitive
There has to be a clear uniformity when it comes to thoughts, words and actions while communicating with others. When the three-match, then you are being truthful. The same holds true for the person with whom the communication is conducted. Non-verbal communications play a great role in a positive conclusion of any important business meeting. However, to understand the implications, it is important to understand the types of gestures. Following this basic knowledge, you can be sensitive to the body language of others and your own.
Seven ways the human body expresses while communicating
- Body movement and postures
- Facial expressions
- Gestures or mannerisms
- Eye Contact
- Touch
- Space
- Voice
In the business world, it is important to know all these gestures. Learning how to use each enhances your chances of success. When entrepreneurs meet potential investors and clients, or when salespeople meet prospects, body language is essential. These non-verbal cues should be natural, assertive, friendly and calming. Faking the same will backfire. It needs to be honed constantly. For example, if you disagree on some points during a meeting, there are chances that too many words will lead to arguments. The gestures tend to give away your true feelings. Such non-verbal cues cannot be controlled. In such cases, it is best to disagree openly and in a polite manner. You can go horribly wrong if confusing cues are given.
Improve non-verbal communications
Chances are that you have failed once or twice in getting your point across to others. Naturally, this gives stress and requires management and control. Confidence comes when you are calm and assertive with your body movements. People listen to you if the approach is positive and you are emotionally aware. Maintaining equilibrium and poise sends a good signal. It shows you have the ability to think calmly rather than jumping to conclusions. Each of us has a different approach to relaxing and making peace with disagreeable situations.
Coffee break
Learn the art of breaking through tense conversations. It is done simply by having a cup of coffee and returning to the meeting with new thoughts. When you send positive nonverbal cues, being emotionally aware is essential. The other person/s involved also sends out similar signals. Understanding gestures goes both ways. It could be tapping of feet or fingers nervously, pushing away eye contact or frequently change of postures. They indicate tension in the environment. Respond with caring and understanding. It could be your best chance to salvage the meeting.
Pay attention to inconsistent behaviour
You have to be aware of other people’s gestures. Paying attention will assist you to alter the way you crack a deal. If you meet a group of people, look around and observe. If one person is not responsive, it is not the end. The others may project different gestures and you need to understand them. Perhaps they are open to what you say. Eventually, you also need to trust your gut feeling. It provides the actual response that may be forthcoming, but whether that is what you want is entirely a different story altogether.
Final evaluation
Body language in business is well-researched globally. It is a significant part of communication across different work cultures. When meeting for the first time, it creates an everlasting memory both ways. Take the advantage of the seven non-verbal cues. It could make or mar your prospects.