Communication is the exchanging of messages between two or more people. However, words aren’t the only effective means of communicating with another person. There’s also body language. This includes hand gestures, posture, facial expressions and eye contact. Sadly, many of us are unaware that we’re constantly sending signals and conveying messages through our body language.
Talking with your Eyes
The eyes are truly the windows to the soul. Eye contact can speak louder than any body movements, even words. Shakira, in her popular song, “Hips Don’t Lie,” may have a lock on those body parts, but the eyes 
Eye contact reinforces your interest – or lack thereof – in your current situation. When the other person is talking and you’re maintaining eye contact, it signifies you’re listening and are interested in the conversation. When you’re the one talking, eye contact indicates that you’re being honest, sincere and forthright about what you’re saying.
Your eyes can also show that you’re bored, anxious, distracted and disinterested. If you’re the one talking, how will you know this about your listener? Generally, a bored or disinterested listener will have dull or lifeless eyes or fail to make, or only sporadically make, eye contact with you. Distraction is also indicated by the sudden break of eye contact, with the distraction becoming the focus of attention. Anxiety or tension is evident when there is an increase in the person’s blinking rate.
Body Language Awareness
Paying attention to your body language will go a long way toward helping you give a positive impression regardless of the situation. Good posture when sitting or standing is essential. Since slouching is often seen as a sign of laziness or boredom – don’t do it. When sitting down, avoid sitting on the edge of your chair. This makes your back look stiff thus making you look nervous or tense. As much as possible, don’t cross your legs. If you do, then make sure the direction of your body is toward the other person. When standing, avoid putting your hands in your pockets or crossing your arms. Some view pocket putting as having something to hide, while arm crossing suggests defiance or resistance.
A firm handshake with eye contact and a slight smile is sure to impress. This action will reflect your confidence and comfort in the situation (even if you’re really not). Using hand gestures while talking is also a part of body language. How you gesture will add information to the conversation – either positive or negative. Try to avoid too much hand gesturing since it might distract the other person from focusing on what you’re saying.
Signals of Interest and Attraction
In the world of romance, body language speaks volumes. For example, long eye contact is one of the strongest signals of interest. Flirting – the breaking of eye contact and then going back again is a sign of interest being exchanged by two people who don’t know each other yet.
Other signs that show your interest include leaning your body toward the other person and nodding your head while they talk, which means, “I agree,” or “Go on, continue.”
Communicating in a Foreign Land
If you’re going to travel to a foreign country, you’ll want to study their body language customs so you don’t inadvertently cause an international incident. For example, while eye contact in the U.S. is seen as a positive, in many Asian countries it’s seen as disrespectful or rude.
Body language is a powerful communication tool – be aware of it and use it wisely!
