Body Language and the Art of Conversation
If a picture is worth a thousand words, then body language is worth so much more. There are times when a look, a gesture, or even your posture can
say more than any words can express. Here are a few tips on how you can use body language when words alone just won't due.
Facial Expressions
One of the most frequently used forms of body language is facial expression. The look on your face can
add a whole new meaning to the words passing through your lips, or substitute for words altogether. When I was a teenager, who stayed out past curfew,
failed to do homework and hid the dirty dishes in the backyard, my mother perfected the angry stare. There was no need for me to ask if I was grounded, that stare said it all.
The Hands
Of course sign language is the ultimate example of using body language to communicate, but even if you don't know how to “sign” you can still use your hands to speak for you. Waving,
pointing, clapping, finger popping, giving a “thumbs up”, and several other hand gestures all help enhance your conversation or even speak for you.
The Arms
Crossing your arms in one form of body language that you might want to avoid. Crossed arms tend to convey that you are “closed” to any conversation, or that you are angry about something
or that you disagree. Where open arms convey that you are open to or welcome a conversation or that you are open to what’s being said. Since we all like to talk to agreeable people, its
best to avoid crossing your arms.
Body Positioning
How you stand or sit also plays a part in communication through body language. Leaning against a wall or slouching in a chair may convey boredom or disinterest to your conversation
partners. However, if you lean in slightly toward the person you’re talking to (as if to hear better) you convey interest is what’s being said. Since we all want to talk to people that
find us interesting, if you use good body positioning when you hold conversations, you will help keep the conversation going.
Touch
A pat on the back, a firm handshake, or a friendly squeeze of the arm all help to convey warmth and kindness. Of course in this day and age, sexual harassment is a serious issue, so you
might want to think before you touch someone of the opposite sex, especially in the workplace. Then again, a warm hug or a gentle squeeze of the arm among friends will say, “I like
you” without so many words.
Let Your Body Do the Talking
So the next time you engage in conversation, use your face, your hands, your entire body to add more meaning to what you’re saying. Then, through the use of good body language, you will
be practicing the art of conversation like a pro.
|
