Body language secrets every successful business owner should know

When your head is buzzing with facts and figures, you have the day’s agenda firmly imprinted on your brain, and you’re desperate for the first cup of coffee of the day it can be incredibly difficult to take your body language to task. Besides, does it really matter what direction your arms are flailing in, or which way you’re looking? You turned up to work, didn’t you? Unfortunately, such a poor attitude is begging to be noticed, and it will reflect negatively in your – you’ve guessed it – body language. The way you conduct yourself in business is so much more than the results you garner, or the phrases you use; it’s about how you present yourself in every single way, and that extends to your body language.

Head up, not down

Looking at the ground, or slouching during meetings, is a sign of disinterest, and of disrespect. The stereotypical stroppy teenager is somewhat famed for slouching, and you’d hardly put them in charge of a business that’s trying to go places, would you? Those looking down aren’t taking everything in, and they’re certainly not looking towards a business’s future. It’s also incredibly difficult to maintain eye contact if you’re more interested in that square of carpet under the water cooler. Head and shoulder up, back straight, and look the part; it’s as simple as that.

It’s not what you say that matters…

In business it’s not always what you say that matters, but what you’re not saying. Body language can give off a million and one things about your attitude and working relationships before you’ve uttered a word, so be very careful about what you’re accidentally spilling… Watching the clock while others are talking, and facing your body away from the conversation, is a sign of disinterest, being uncomfortable, and impatience, while using exaggerated gestures can give away every time you embellish upon the truth. Crossed arms, meanwhile – well, we don’t need to remind you what that particular stance looks like, do we?

Beware of inconsistencies

Words can be incredibly powerful in business, but if you’re not backing them up with convincing body language you may as well be speaking in tongues. Let’s say, for example, that you’re attempting to reject a new business deal in favour of something you feel is worth more. You may feel as though you’re talking with conviction, and speaking with authority, but if you’re displaying nervous body language the other party has you exactly where they want you. The same goes if you’re the one trying to make a deal; if your body language doesn’t match the sincerity of your words you’re likely to lose a valuable ally.

The eyes have it

Rolling your eyes, whether you mean to or not, failing to make eye contact, or neglecting to break that downright creepy stare at any point during conversation are surefire ways to damage your chances of sealing a business deal. Failing to make eye contact can show distrust or discomfort, while never breaking that stare is, quite frankly, trying too hard. And as for rolling your eyes? You may as well turn your back on your associate.

And finally… the all-important handshake

You’ll no doubt have heard a lot of emphasis placed on handshakes in a business setting, and the way you greet a colleague or client can say a lot about the type of operation you run. Weak handshakes can display a lack of authority or confidence, while shaking a little too zealously can be mistaken for aggression or an attempt at dominance. Be mindful of how hard you grasp that other hand, and never let it linger too long past, “hello”…

Now, you’re ready to head into the big, wide world of business. Remember to keep gestures measured and sincere, maintain eye contact without being weird about it, be as confident in your handshake as you are in your company, and always, always, look ahead rather than behind.