Body language has always been a vital aspect of effective communication skills. Through it, you can underscore your opinions and emotions. Your smile highlights your happiness; banging on the table shows indignation. Body language examples like craning your neck or looking away emphasize your emotions (or reveal them). Yes, your actions can betray you, making it all the more important to be aware of them.
According to the book Well Said! Presentations and Conversations That Get Results, nonverbal communication has between 65% to 93% more impact than what you say. However, in the age of video conferences, how does this effectivity change? Nowadays, you have literally no legroom to express yourself. And when you’re competing for attention in a grid of tiny faces, how do you stand out?
Here are some body language examples and tips that can set you apart from the Zoom crowd.
Use Your Voice
You probably think that body language examples consist solely of how you move your arms or the expression on your face. When you’re in a , however, your voice is your best offense when it comes to conveying a message. You’ve probably been in these two virtual meeting scenarios: (1) you turn off your camera due to technological limitations; (2) your colleagues are multitasking and not paying attention to the screen. Your tone of voice is the medium that will exhibit your feelings.
Speak clearly and show off appropriate emotions. For example, sound excited when submitting a project proposal, be indignant when disapproving, convey enthusiasm when responding to other people. How you react shows that you are paying attention, involved, and confident in your role in the entire conversation.
Make an Effort to Present Yourself Well
Go ahead and rock your moth-eaten pajama bottoms, but make sure you’re . Whether you’re on or off-screen, dressing well can do wonders to . According to the 2014 study “Dress, Body, and Self: Research in the Social Psychology of Dress,” respondents say they feel more competent and responsible when they .
Since your head dominates most of the screen, make sure to prep your face and hair properly, too. Wash your hair to make sure they are not limp and lifeless. Sunsilk Naturals Sakura & Raspberry Radiance Shampoo purifies your hair and coaxes out its natural shine. You don’t have to worry about shining on screen when you can let your hair do the work.
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Smile and Maintain Eye Contact
Anyone who’s watched Runaway Bride knows how critical eye contact is during communication. But where do you look when you’re on Zoom? Do you look at yourself? At the speaker? Do you go for the gallery view? What if you have two screens? Our tip: always look at the camera. It is the closest you’ll ever get to eye contact. If you find it awkward, set up your app in speaker mode and position the window as close to the lens as you can.
When you want to engage better with the other participants in the call, don’t forget to smile. It’s the easiest of body language examples. Plus, it can demonstrate anything from fascination, excitement, to joy. closeup Natural Smile Toothpaste has lemon essence and sea salt to help gain confidence about flashing a white smile on screen.
Mind Your Arms
Even if you’re just resting your neck after hours sitting at your desk, do not put your head over your hand. Your colleagues may interpret this as boredom or disinterest. Are you in the habit of crossing your arms? While it may just be a mannerism, various studies note that crossed arms convey shyness, resistance, or discomfort.
If you’re not sure what to do with your arms, just place them flat on your desk or keep them hidden from the screen.
Slow Down Your Movements
How you pace yourself is one of the body language examples that serve both practical and professional purposes. A bad connection may make your screen lag after all and your over-the-top movements awkwardly slow. Rapid movements can also mean nervousness or unease.
Stay steady. Take your time to make sure everyone can understand you. Nerves aren’t always a bad thing, but they can cramp your style. If you are anxious about a presentation, expend that excess energy by jumping up and down or running up the stairs before you begin.
Your actions don’t have to be big or wild. After all, you only have about a square inch of space. But make sure it – or, rather, you count with these body language examples that can help improve your confidence – on and off the screen.