FM Walsh & Associates Inc.

Watch Your Body Language

Did you know most people make up their mind about you within 8 seconds? And this is usually before you have even said anything. That’s why you always need to be aware of your body language – do you project a good first impression? Here are 4 things you can do to create a strong confident impression with people:

- Dressing well is important. Most women pull off this part no problem. But you need to pay attention to your posture. Stand tall, with shoulders back and head up. Don’t slump or cross your arms.

- When you enter a room, don’t just plaster on a smile and zip over to the bar. Stand at the door for 10 seconds and scan the room –this lets people notice you have arrived and allows you to see who is there.

- Create eye contact with people – it will make people feel like you are really listening to them and this builds rapport. Don’t keep looking over their shoulder at who else is wandering by.

- Don’t be a low talker. If you speak too quietly, people will think you lack confidence. If you talk too fast, you sound anxious.