10 Body Language Mistakes to Avoid - Erick...
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Erick Rheam 10 Body Language Mistakes to Avoid
Transcript of 10 Body Language Mistakes to Avoid - Erick...
Erick Rheam10 Body Language Mistakes to Avoid
Why Body Language?
Human beings need to interact to survive. Whenever you are in the presence of someone else, you are constantly communicating with that person.
Did you know that 55% of communication between two people is nonverbal? More importantly, two people will display over 800 nonverbal body language cues over a course of a 30 minute conversation.
If you don’t understand body language then most likely you are making several of the body language mistakes I describe in this Ebook.
Human dynamics is hard enough without making these common body language mistakes that you can easily avoid. Enjoy this resource and learn what NOT to do the next time you engage in a conversation.
Thanks for reading and please visit me at www.erickrheam.com.
10 Body Language Mistakes to Avoid
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Your first interaction with someone usually occurs with a handshake. This is your shot to make a great first impression. Don’t mess up this opportunity with a knuckle crushing handshake that will have the other person wincing and offended before the conversation even begins.
Be firm with your handshake, but don’t kill the other person’s hand and you will be off to a great start.
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Mistake #1
The Knuckle Crushing Handshake
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Crossing your arms may be comfortable, but it sends the wrong message to others around you. Crossing your arms sends the signal that you are closed off towards the other party and you are not interested in the topic being discussed.
If you are not sure what to do with you arms, then place them behind your back or interlace your fingers in front of you, but always avoid crossing your arms, especially during a critical negotiation.
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Mistake #2
Crossed Arms
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Putting your hands on your hips during a conversation sends a signal of superiority. You may be confident about the discussion, but you don’t want to appear arrogant. Avoid this gesture in order to keep the other person engaged and comfortable.
Mistake #3
Hands On Hips
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Making eye contact with someone during a conversation promotes communication and shows that you are interested in the conversation.
When you break eye contact frequently and scan the room, you send the signal that you are not interested in the other person and what they are saying. This gesture is disrespectful and will degrade the relationship quickly.
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Mistake #4
Shifty Eyes
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Checking your phone, during a conversation with others, has the same affect as shifty eyes. It shows a lack of interest and respect for others. Avoid this gesture if you want to leave a positive impression.
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Mistake #5
Checking Your Phone
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Checking your watch signals that you are not interested in a conversation. You are giving the impression that you would rather be somewhere else. This may be true, but it hurts the feelings of the person you are speaking with and will damage the relationship.
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Mistake #6
Watching the Clock
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Making eye contact is critical if you want to make a connection with another person; however, there is a fine line between making eye contact and staring the person down.
Break eye contact at regular intervals to maintain a natural flow and to keep the conversation comfortable and enjoyable. A good rule of thumb is to break eye contact every 5-7 seconds while conversing with another person.
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Mistake #7
Staring
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Fidgeting is distracting and signals nervousness. When you act nervous, you will make the other person nervous and the conversation and atmosphere will become tense.
Be aware not to fidget with your phone, a pen, a brochure, or any other object. Also don’t tap your foot or rap your fingers on the table. Check yourself and be calm and still during a conversation and your outcome will be more pleasant.
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Mistake #8
Fidgeting
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Everyone has a personal bubble around them. This is an area that is private and should be respected. Be aware of invading this space during the course of conversation.
If a person becomes uncomfortable when you invade their space, then they will lose focus and you will lose the connection with them.
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Mistake #9
Invading Personal Space
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Nothing is more powerful and universally accepted than a simple smile, yet we often fail to use this tool to promote warmth, acceptance, and create a positive atmosphere.
Failing to smile could send the wrong signal and make others feel that you are not enjoying the conversation. A simple smile can change the mood of a conversation and promote a positive dialogue.
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Mistake #10
Failing To Smile
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If you are interested to get more information on how I can train your organization on the art and science behind nonverbal communication, then let’s start the conversation.
Master the Art of Nonverbal Communication
I’m available to train you
