Body language

Tips for body language on stage

To interpret body language: To decipher gestures

Our body speaks. Always - even if we are silent. And even when we talk, we always speak two languages: the words and the body. Our body language - gestures and facial expressions - is thus a nasty traitor. Because we do not always say with our mouths what we think or feel. Our body already: the rippling of the lips, raising an eyebrow, the hull of the nose - even such micro gestures provide information about our true feelings and thoughts. Only if the non-verbal signals fit our statements, a coherent image and thus credibility and authenticity. Body language therefore plays a crucial role in our communication - in the interview as well as in negotiations, in customer contact or simply in small talk. The art is to be able to interpret the body language as well as to decipher gestures
Success factor body language: The gestures of power
When it comes to body language, there are two camps:
Some consider the hype about body language and gestures exaggerated. They argue that natural body language is sufficient and the effect and meaning of gestures is overestimated.
The others regard body language as the most important element of individual action. They attach great importance to appropriate exercises and training and make success directly dependent on a convincing body language.

The truth is certainly somewhere in between.

Posture and gestures always say something - even if we are silent. Only then maybe not necessarily what the sender of the message wishes. Especially our gestures have enormous power. Some studies attribute up to 80 percent of their communicative impact - even before the words. However, our body language is usually an unconscious one. Unfortunately. Because so-called high-status gestures (also called power poses) not only have an effect on others - they can also change one's own self-esteem.

The following gestures show special power and high status:

Slow, elegant movements
Unrestrained smile
Upright, silent head posture
Strong voice

How to use your body language properly?

Much of the body language happens unconsciously. They do not think about every posture of their arms or legs, unintentionally and deliberately turning their bodies or heads to one side. Because of this, body language can provide such deep insights because it is often not directly controlled but unfiltered to reflect emotions and thoughts.
You have the opportunity to be aware of your body language and to use it best and to use it for yourself. The following tips can help you with the right body language:

Embark on a common level

This is quite serious and literal in this case. Height differences are perceived and interpreted by both sides of a communication. If you look down from above, it is automatically superior or even threatening. This effect may be desired, but is anything but sympathetic. Therefore, when you make a request, make a request, or conduct a negotiation, you should never look from the bottom up, as this weakens your position

Use your smile

The smile is a true all-rounder of body language and has the great advantage that it can be used consciously and purposefully. It can signal openness and affection, arouse sympathy or radiate sovereignty and self-confidence.

Stick to distance zones

In addition to gestures, facial expressions and other aspects, distance zones also belong to the body language and should be respected. In plain language, do not back each other too close to the pelle, but keep a certain distance.

Know the effect of your body language

To use your body language properly, you need to understand its impact on others. Put yourself in the position of the other person and ask yourself which signals your body language sends.