body language - Matching Your Words to Your Movement

 The key to instilling trust is matching body language to the words

spoken. Movements will confirm or contradict what is said. Gestures

will easily match what is said if the words reflect genuine feeling.

Emotional awareness is necessary to communicate exactly what you

mean. Unresolved emotions can affect body language.

Involuntary Movements

We do not control our involuntary movements. Emotions can affect our breathing,

posture, gestures, and micro‐expressions. People subconsciously pick up on

involuntary movements, particularly when they contradict what is said. For

example, increased respiration can indicate stress or anxiety. When practicing body

language, be aware of involuntary movements. Reducing stress and finding healthy

ways to express emotion will help limit involuntary movements.

Ways to reduce stress:

 Exercise

 Meditation

 Sufficient sleep

 Journaling

 Healthy diet

...80% of what you understand in a

conversation is read through the body, not

the words.

Deborah Bull

Moreno Valley College ͟͠͞͡

Employment Placement | Body Language Basics 54

Say What You Mean

Deception is often part of polite communication. This will affect body

language and movement. Communication is much more effective when

you say what you mean. You should always practice being respectful and

honest in your speech.

Honest Communication:

 Be specific: Stick to the facts when communicating. Do not rely on your emotions.

 Self‐edit: Choose language that is not confrontational.

 Have a goal: Know the point of your communication, and do not ramble.

Always Be Consistent

Dependable communication creates trust. The key is to be consistently honest

and open when communicating with others. Here are a few tips that will

improve your communication style and increase consistency.

 Speak plainly: Avoid complex terms, and define any new terms used.

 Listen: Invite feedback and clarify information when necessary.

 Adapt: Pay attention to the body language and tone of others, and respond appropriately.

 Be open: Be open and honest in what is said and in your body language.

Actions Will Trump Words

People pay more attention to actions than words. We typically make decisions

about someone within four seconds of a meeting. This is largely based on body

language and behavior. If your body language is hostile, it does not matter how kind

your words or tone are. Be aware of what your actions and gestures are

communicating to those around you. Practice your body language skills and decode the body language

of others:

What People Decide?

 Intelligence

Moreno Valley College ͟͠͞͡

Employment Placement | Body Language Basics 55

 Trustworthiness

 Likability

 Decision to buy

Case Study

Steve had a busy schedule, and he was under a great deal of stress. Rather than

helping his sales, the extra work was hindering them. His sales dropped five percent

over three months. His body language was affected by the stress on his system. A

colleague advised Steve to make stress reduction a priority. Steve made a healthy

lifestyle a priority. After eating well, exercising, and taking time to sleep, Steve’s confidence and body

language improved. He was more influential with new clients, and his sales increased by 15 percent six

months later.