Body language is found in anyone during physical communication. Whether you are giving your valedictorian speech to your classmates at your high school graduation, trying to sell yourself during that dream job interview, or asking a special someone out on a date, how your body acts can receive just as much attention as what comes out of your mouth. As you are losing weight after gastric bypass in Salt Lake City, take the time to pay attention to the signals that you are sending out with your body.
Probably the most noticed form of body language is eye contact. Looking at someone eye-to-eye during a conversation displays many things. It can show confidence, concern, interest and even honesty. People with social anxiety tend to have issues making eye contact, even for a short period of time. Those that are hiding something also struggle looking at someone in the eye. When someone proposes marriage, typically the person gets down on one knee, holds up the ring, and pops the question, all while looking their loved one in the eye.
Your hands also play a huge part in body language. Even a simple handshake can leave an impression on a person. Whether you are catching up with an old friend, or meeting a potential employer for the first time, that two second shake can tell a lot to a person, as it’s usually the first thing you do. Studies throughout the years have shown that a strong, firm grip can consciously or even subconsciously make a job interviewer immediately feel positively towards a job candidate. While most women tend to have a much weaker handshake, a much tighter squeeze from a female definitely can leave a good impression, especially towards men.
Hands are also used frequently when someone has something to say. Think back to grade school when you knew the answer to the teacher’s question during geography class. You would raise your hand to get the teacher’s attention. This goes beyond the classroom, however. When trying to emphasize a point during a business meeting, you might find yourself making a sharp chopping motion with your dominant hand. When you are confused about something or don’t know what to do, you might raise your hands simultaneously up to your shrugged shoulders.
Many professionals have their own opinions on the “dos and don’ts” of body language. But the next time you are chatting about the blockbuster movie that premiered over the weekend, or talking about your kid’s soccer game, take notice to not only the listener’s, but also your own body language. You might learn a few things.