PERSONAL SPECIAL..... MAKING THE RIGHT IMPRESSION

MAKING THE RIGHT IMPRESSION

Here are seven body-language mistakes that could ruin how others perceive you at work

Did you know that looking a person directly in the eye is intimidating? Or if you are an introvert, you could be sending the wrong message to your boss about your confidence and capabilities?

According to body language expert Lillian Glass, how you carry yourself can impact a first impression at work. “Introverts and extroverts need to be mindful of their body language to make a good impression,“ says Glass.

Facial expressions, body language, and linguistics can be big indicators of your abilities as an employee than your work product . No matter how great your results or final project may be, the cues you are giving through your body language and disposition can undermine your success, and influence your chances for promotion, a raise, and even career growth.

Take a cue from these seven body language mistakes that you may be making and work on avoiding them.

Tilting head to the side or dropping the head

Whether you are playing coy or shyness is your natural disposition, looking down or not making eye contact is a sign of a lack of confidence. “When someone is trying to make a good first impression, they need to keep in mind their posture: head up, nose up and chin up,“ advises Glass.

Hunching over

Good posture and a strong stance projects openness and a willingness to work. Even if your office environment is casual, maintaining a good posture is important.

Flimsy handshake

While the power grip isn't a must-have for everyone, limp or lame handshakes make a horrible first impression and can make your business contacts doubt your abilities. A good rule of thumb is to take situational cues by mirroring the handshake you are given.

Leaning out

Glass says employees must be mindful not to lean out or lean away. If you lean away from the person you are speaking with, it sends the message that you are not interested or not engaged with the other person.

Direct eye contact

“You are not supposed to look someone directly in the eye, you're supposed to look them directly in the face,“ says Glass.

Focus just on the eyes can be perceived as intimidating and disconcerting.

Intense seriousness

Sure, the office is a place of business, but that doesn't mean you should walk the halls with a stern face. If you are not smiling, it sends the message that you are not happy or engaged.

Tapping your feet or wringing your hands

Bouncing your knee or tapping a pencil conveys nervousness. According to Glass, body language that shows a lack of confidence includes fidgeting, playing with hands or feet, shuffling or tapping feet.

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