Tyler Tervooren is the creator of Riskology which is a community dedicated to the introverts. He shares some honest strategies and insights so that introverts can master their psychology and habits, build strong connections, become an inspiring person and be able to pursue their mission of life.This article is based on the article guest posted by Vanessa Van Edwards on Riskology. Vanessa Van Edwards is the lead investigator at the Science of People, a published author, speaker and Tyler's close friend.
External url: https://www.riskology.co/body-language-tips/
Tags: body language, nonverbal gestures
The ‘head tilt’ is the universal sign for ‘I’m listening.’ It makes us feel wanted, cared for and special by the listener. In turn, this makes the listener seem more appreciative, caring and attractive. When you are listening to someone (but you actually have to be listening, don’t ever fake it) you can show the other person nonverbal respect by head tilting just slightly as they open up to you.
Please refer to the blog for more details on this activity.
Your body makes you look like a winner… or a loser. When you look like a winner, people want to be friends with you, they see you as a winner and want you to be their ally. Stand more like a winner.
Self-touch is an incredibly interesting nonverbal cue and can mean 2 different things:
1. Self-Soothing Behavior
When we’re highly uncomfortable, our body language shows it. Self-soothing is a behavior we engage in to calm our inner nerves. Self-touch activities include
It can calm nerves, use it sparingly. Self-soothing can often lead to other low power behavior, which decreases your confidence levels and can make your nerves even worse.
2. Flirtation
Self-touch in the dating environment is generally perceived more positively, especially for women.
When a woman exposes and gently strokes her neck, this is a flirty type of touch. Women touching their hair and jewelry or adjusting their clothes or bag – increases attractiveness and overall sensuality.
However, men engage in less self-touch when they are comfortable and attracted to a woman and tend to claim more territory. Splaying legs and arms (manspreading) is a territorial display of dominance. If a man displays self-touch, like rubbing the back of his neck, this most likely means he’s feeling a negative emotion like insecurity, nervousness or worry.
Leaning can be used for several purposes, including emphasis, agreement and partnership. At your next presentation or meeting, lean in toward your audience or team on your most important point.
This nonverbal cue will increase active listening and engagement. Using purposeful leans during conversations fosters camaraderie, encouragement and agreement.
Imagine you just walked into a networking event or party and you know no one. Whether, you are trying to decide if you should approach a group or wait for someone to approach you, your body as well as your toes can show intention.
If you’re waiting to be approached, direct your toes towards the open room. This means you are ready and available for a conversation.
If you want to join a group of people already in conversation, check out their feet. If one or several people have their toes pointed out of the circle, it either means that they will be leaving the group conversation (allowing a space for you to approach) or they are open to others joining.