Understanding body language
WE are constantly judged by the way we dress, walk and talk at work, DBM Asia Pacific president Rod Watson says.
The office is a hotbed of mixed messages and innuendo so it comes as little surprise that along with requiring the usual work experience and skills, we also need to be experts at interpreting and decoding body language.
Experts say about 90 per cent of communication is non-verbal.
First impressions count, Mr Watson says: "Before you even open your mouth, a prospective client or employer will judge you on your dress, demeanor and posture.
"Good posture, presentation and confidence all contribute to portraying an aura of professionalism before uttering a word.
"Approach your counterpart with a firm and open handshake and maintain eye contact. Reading and controlling body language is an essential tool at the negotiation table. Eyes are probably one of your most powerful weapons.''
Mr Watson says if the other person's eyes divert away from yours it generally infers they are:
* Uncomfortable with the course of the conversation.
* Recalling some information.
* Searching for the right word.
* Telling an untruth.
Either way, it's a moment of vulnerability that can be taken advantage of.
To engage another speaker, provide them with affirmation that you agree with what they are saying or want to hear more.
Nodding your head and smiling offers encouragement, putting the speaker at ease and making them more confident in the point they are trying to convey.
Watch for signs of impatience - in yourself and your counterpart as it shows little time or respect for the other person. Looking at your watch or phone is rude and very obvious.
Then there are more subtle gestures still clearly noticeable such as sitting back in your seat with your legs crossed or tapping a pen.
In the cynical environment of the workplace, people are more inclined to believe what you do rather than what you say, Mr Watson says.
"We all have preferred ways of communicating with a counterpart,'' he says.
"The key is to select a line of communication that is comfortable for both and remember to be conscious of words and actions.''
DBM is a global human capital management firm annually guiding more than 7000 organisations and 250,000 individuals through transitions caused by changing events or ongoing employee changes.
The Advertiser.
