subject: 4 Acts of Business Body Language [print this page] Business body language and business networking run parallels as they both occur at the same time. When you are out at networking events and generating leads or contacts, there is a language being spoken that is nonverbal.
Just as if you were visiting another country and had to communicate with different people who spoke another language, it is important to speak and understand the language of the body. This has the obvious benefits of better communication which can lead to a number of favorable things.
Business body language, just like social body language, has its subtleties and can't be completely depended upon. However, taking note of certain movements and behaviors can help you in your networking experiences.
We all like to be as prepared as we can for important situations. Knowing what certain positions and movements mean gives us superior understanding and is all part of adequate preparation. Below, are a few body language aspects to take note of and use to your advantage;
Raised Eyebrows
Sometimes people are not as vocal in expressing their inner feelings as you would like them to be. Raised eyebrows is a sign of interest. If you are engaged in a business networking conversation and explaining something, raised eyebrows indicate that your conversation partner has an interest in what you're saying. Don't be fooled by the lack of words.
Partially Facing You
Typically, we usually face the direction of our intentions. In other words, when we are engaged in a conversation and are ready to leave in a rush, our bodies will usually start to face towards the door. If this is happening while you are engaged in a conversation, don't take it personal, the person may have an appointment to get to. To your advantage, make the conversation brief and set up a time to talk later.
Leaning Forward into You
Just as with the raised eyebrows, people have a way of showing interest without talking. When an individual is interested in something, they will lean towards it. We can be very predictable at times and leaning towards an object or person is a clue to take note of. However, pay attention to all of the surrounding factors.
Not Making Eye Contact
You may even see a minor pattern at this point. Typically, when people are interested in something they will face it, or lean towards it.
Not making eye contact can be compared to not being faced. There may be a lack of interest or even a shyness involved. You will have to make your own assertion in this situation. It will be to your advantage to observe this and take the appropriate action to get the results you want.
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