39 CONFIDENT BODY LANGUAGE
No one has ever seen a cock crow with its head down.
Alonzo Newton Benn
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Stand in front of a mirror. Hold your head up, back straight, shoulders back,
looking straight ahead. Try to make yourself look bigger, as if you’re taking
up more space – good posture automatically takes up more space. Now walk
briskly and confidently around the room. How do you feel?
A proud, upright stance makes you look more important, even if
you’re not especially tall. It makes you look younger and slimmer too.
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Now do the opposite. Droop your shoulders, head down, looking at the
floor. Make yourself smaller, as if your body is closing in on itself. How
confident do you feel now?
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Hand and arm movements are very expressive. Learn to use your hands
for emphasis, and keep hand movements smooth and flowing. Avoid:
■ Folding your arms or wrapping them around yourself (like a cuddle).
This indicates a closed, defensive attitude and makes you appear
unapproachable.
■ Placing your hands in your pockets.
■ Tapping on surfaces such as tables and desks with your fingers or on
the back of your other hand.
■ Fidgeting, scratching, wringing your hands (which shows tension).
■ Touching your face or neck. This reveals discomfort or
embarrassment.
Become aware of all your mannerisms and gestures. If possible video
yourself, watch carefully and make adjustments.
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