While everyone knows that actions speak louder than words, did you know your body language might be saying things you never meant? Our nonverbal cues can make a big impact on how others see us. However, we’re usually completely unaware of these little habits—let’s change that. Here are twelve body language mistakes you might be making without even realizing it. Let’s work out what’s going on with those unspoken messages!
Featured Image Credit: Vadymvdrobot /Depositphotos.com.
Excessive Nodding
We all know that nodding along when someone is talking shows you’re listening but if you’re bobbing your head nonstop, it comes off as fake. It might even seem a bit over the top since the person speaking may get distracted—or feel like you’re rushing them to finish. Instead of continuous nodding, try to nod naturally at moments when you want to encourage them. Doing so keeps your responses sincere.
Not Nodding at All
On the flip side, if you never nod during a conversation, you’ll seem uninterested or lost! It makes the person talking think you’re not following along because you don’t care about what they’re saying. To avoid this, try giving a few natural nods here & there to show that you’re engaged. It also makes the speaker feel heard.
Like our content? Be sure to follow us.
Touching Your Face Frequently
Constantly touching your face is rather distracting during a conversation. It doesn’t matter if you’re rubbing your nose or scratching your chin—people might interpret it as a sign that you’re nervous. They might even think you’re hiding something! Try to be mindful by keeping your hands away from your face to come across as more confident.
Covering Your Mouth While Speaking
Likewise, putting your hand over your mouth when you talk makes others think you’re unsure of yourself. This gesture also muffles your words to make it harder for people to understand you. Put your hands away! In doing so, you’ll communicate more clearly and project your trustworthiness during conversations.
Mirroring Incorrectly
Copying someone’s body language might create a connection but if you overdo it, it’ll backfire. You could unintentionally mimic negative gestures, like crossing arms or frowning, or make it so obvious that they feel mocked. Try to pick up on positive cues & mirror them subtly. It’ll help you build rapport—but without making the other person feel uncomfortable.
Weak Handshake
The way you shake hands leaves a lasting impression. A limp handshake makes people think you’re insecure or not really interested in meeting them, while a bone-crushing handshake makes you seem overly confident. You might not notice you’re doing it, especially if you’re nervous! Try giving a firm handshake to start off on the right foot when you’re greeting someone new.
Overusing Hand Gestures
Gesturing with your hands definitely adds emphasis to what you’re saying—yet don’t wave them around too much. Why? Because it distracts your listeners as they watch your hands flail about rather than your words. You should keep their attention on your message by using hand gestures sparingly & naturally.
Blocking Behavior
Putting things like bags or folders between you & someone else unintentionally creates a barrier. Even crossed arms or legs do that! It might signal that you’re feeling defensive, although that might not be how you feel, so try to keep the space open. Set items aside & uncross your arms so that the environment is more inviting. This way, they’ll know you’re open to engaging.
Clenching Your Fists
Clenching your fists when you’re talking is a sign of passion as much as it is a sign of anger without meaning to. In fact, such a gesture makes other people feel nervous. Try relaxing your hands & keeping them open to convey a sense of ease. You’ll make the conversation more comfortable for everyone.
Shifting Weight Frequently
Swaying, rocking, or shifting your weight from foot to foot during a conversation is a signal that you’re nervous & uncomfortable. Of course, you may not notice you’re doing it. But other people will pick up on it & find it distracting so try to be more aware of your posture. It’ll help you seem more sure of yourself—isn’t that what you want?
Standing with Hands in Pockets
When you stuff your hands in your pockets during a conversation, it might give off the impression that you’re bored, hiding something, or just not that interested. While it might feel comfortable for you, it can create a sense of distance. By keeping your hands out and using them to gesture naturally, you show openness and make the interaction more engaging.
Fidgeting with Your Hair
Stop twirling your hair all the time during conversations! At best, it signals that you’re anxious—at worst, you might be flirting unintentionally which is not exactly great at work! It also makes it hard for others to focus. Get a fidget spinner if you really need one so that you can keep the conversation on track.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
Like our content? Be sure to follow us on MSN.
