Reading Body Language – Displaying Confidence

Using Non-Verbal Communication in Order to Make a Strong Impression

Sep 7, 2009

An article based on the use of body language to create a first impression of confidence and self-assurance.

Humans are constantly giving and receiving signals, seemingly unconsciously, through the shaping and movements of the body. People are illustrations of their emotions, the visual conception of their feelings, whether they like to admit it or not.

There are several body language "courses" and how to read body language guides, however many seem confusing and contradictory. This article examines how to understand body language and how to communicate an air of confidence through the use of body language.

Strong Body Language – The Firm Handshake

There are famed myths that people make their first impression and judgments about others within the first few seconds of meeting them. Therefore, it is important to start strong with a firm handshake.

The beginning of most western meetings, whether business or pleasure, usually involves the sharing of a handshake. This dates back to the ancients when it was gesture in order to indicate that the person was empty-handed and without weapon therefore showing respect and no intentional threat.

In order to give a strong impression through a handshake, it is a good plan to grip the peer's hand firmly, but not excessively (avoid a vice-like or crippling handshake), and look the other straight in the eyes with a slight confident relaxed smile. This will indicate that the person is immediately placing himself or herself on a level plateau with the peer, and, although they may not be trying to overbalance or threaten them, that they are not to pushed around.

Strong Body Language – Posture

Posture is important in presentation and display of personality, as well as in self-esteem and belief.

A person who is slumped, carrying high shoulders and a drooping neck with inside feel the insecurity that is being displayed. It is similar to the common expression "smile and the world will smile back at you." If a person portrays powerful posture and a strong stance they will feel more secure and ready for the world around them.

Therefore stand firm, legs spaced and well balanced. Shoulders low and relaxed, as if the world would rest easy without effort. Arms loose and swaying naturally in step. This will give an overriding presence of confidence and a relaxed nature.

Strong Body Language – Talking

Maintain a strong and confident posture throughout a conversation it is recommended that a person express themselves with gestures using wide hands and expressive arms (although obviously this must never be overused to a comic level).

Using wide arm gestures will give the impression that the person is opening their body towards the peer. Thus, this form body language communicates that the individual is free of fears and does not need to protect or hide themselves away. This will lead to greater recognition and the other person is more apt to be engrossed in the speaker's words.

Weak Body Language – Fidgeting

Fidgeting with jewelery, napkins or fingernails will give an overall impression of boredom and a feeling of being out of one's depth. Fidgeting suggests that the mind is wandering, and it suggests that the individual is trying to occupy his/her mind by pointlessly messing with objects. A person who is fidgeting will not portray himself as a good candidate for employment or as an ideal and interested acquaintance.

Think of all the great strong figures in history. From Lincoln and Churchill through to Obama and even Arnold Schwarzenegger. Never once would it been seen that any of them would be messing with objects in their environment during a discussion. Never once would Lincoln idly tap his foot or drum his fingers. Never would Schwarzenegger shiver or tap during the Terminator. This gives great aid to producing an overwhelming "air of confidence" and authority that each of these individuals portrays.

So when meeting ones future in-laws or sharing lunch with the board of directors, never shuffle or shake, be open relaxed, in seeming perfect control of oneself and thus everything else around.

The copyright of the article Reading Body Language – Displaying Confidence in Psychology is owned by Michael Catley. Permission to republish Reading Body Language – Displaying Confidence in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.