What is good body language?

Good body language is a crucial aspect of effective communication that often speaks louder than words. Whether in professional settings, social situations or day-to-day interactions, the way we use our bodies can greatly influence how others perceive us and how successful our communication is.

Good body language helps to convey confidence, openness and interest in others. It also supports verbal messages and can make interactions more engaging and meaningful. Negative body language can hold us back, and quickly make the wrong impression.

Positive body language can build trust, show respect and shape strong relationships, both personally and professionally. It is important to pay attention to cultural differences, as body language can have varying meanings in different societies.

Top five tips to show good body language

1. Eye contact: Good eye contact is vital if you are going to build rapport with someone – it conveys interest and attentiveness, and shows sincerity and confidence. Maintaining eye contact engenders feelings of trust and confidence, and can break through barriers. It should be maintained without staring, so looking away to think before you answer a question, for example, is a natural way of breaking what could be an uncomfortable eyeballing session.

2. Smiling: A genuine smile sends signals of warmth and friendliness, and helps to build bridge a between you and those you meet. Get to know your smile! Look at yourself in the mirror or on video and decide what looks genuine and friendly, rather than a slightly strained grimace. A smile reassures in all sorts of situations, and it helps us (and others) feel good.

3. Posture: Standing or sitting up straight, with shoulders back and head up, is good posture and gives an impression of confidence. But body language can be misinterpreted if we don’t get it right, so don’t leave anything to chance – stand in front of a mirror and make sure that when your head is held high, you don’t look arrogant or disdainful. Walking is also important, and getting somebody to video you doing this is a very good way to make sure your body language is as positive as you would like it to be.

4. Mirroring: Subtly mirroring the body language of the person you are speaking with can create a sense of connection and mutual understanding. For instance, leaning forward if they move towards you, nodding when they nod. This must be natural and understated, or it will look as though you are are mimicking them which would not be good! But when we are truly engaged with someone, we tend to mirror naturally. Make a mental note when you next have a conversation.

5. Active listening: Nodding, leaning slightly forward and responding with appropriate facial expressions shows you are actively engaged in a conversation, and makes a good impression on the person you are talking to. Again, eye contact is essential. Try to use the 3-Ls: look, listen and learn. Look into a person’s eyes, as well as observing their body language; listen carefully to what they say; learn from what you have seen and heard to maintain and motivate a conversation.