Positive body language helps at work by signalling confidence, attention and preparedness. Nodding, eye contact and facing the speaker show active listening, a smile influences how others respond, and gestures that match words make communication clearer. Using hand gestures also improves verbal flow, with less hesitation and fewer fillers, which is why skilled presenters master gestural communication.
Last updated · Bodhih Insights team · reviewed by Siddharthan VGJ, Founder
A person’s confidence and ability to perform a job will clearly reflect on the display of body language and how one composes himself. It also holds weight on the outcome of an assignment. Positive body language and confidence are interconnected. If one is equipped with the required skills and asks the right questions, it would be clearly visible in his body language. Adequate preparation is the crucial first step to carry the right body language. Below mentioned are some of the positive results of effective body language that lead to professional success:
1) Shows that you are focussed and interested: A speaker in a conversation would like to know if people are listening**.** Usage of non-verbal signals like nodding, maintaining eye contact and facing the speaker are clear signs of active listening and show the speaker that you are engaged in the conversation.
Influences People: A positive body language will highly influence people we interact with. A facial expression that carries a smile and releases positive signs will create a healthy environment for both the parties in conversation.
Frames the mental processes of communication: The mental process of communication is framed by the body language. The gestures used while speaking convey what the speaker will be speaking about and makes a good impression on the listeners. The flow of words should match with the gestures to make communication meaningful.
Accelerates the flow of speech while communicating: Speech production becomes active when we communicate with gestures particularly with the hand movements. Gestures are integrally linked to speech and can power up thinking. It is noted that people who involve gestures into their conversations see improvements in their verbal flow, a decrease in hesitation and use of fillers. Non-verbal communication stimulates a clearer thought process and enables one to speak in a more declarative language. Great public speakers and presenters are ones who have mastered the art of gestural communication through which they make their presentations memorable and inspiring.
Quick answers
What body language shows active listening?
Nodding, maintaining eye contact and facing the speaker are clear non-verbal signs of active listening. They show the speaker that you are focused, interested and engaged in the conversation, which builds trust and makes the exchange more productive.
