Body Language Mistakes

 There are different factors that will create false body language

signals. This is why it is so important to examine the positions and

gestures as a whole when attempting to interpret body language.

To prevent body language mistakes, become aware of these

factors and think carefully when reading body language.

Poor Posture

Posture can lead to unfair judgments and prejudices. Often, poor posture

is seen as a closed body language that people assume is caused by a lack

of confidence. There are, however, many different reasons why someone

can have poor posture. While it is true that most people can improve on

their posture, the changes that can be made to a person’s

musculoskeletal structure are limited. Always pay attention to other cues,

and do not make rash judgments based solely on posture.

Some Causes of Poor Posture:

 Injury: Both acute injuries and repetitive motion injuries can alter someone’s posture.

 Illness: Autoimmune diseases, such as arthritis, can damage the skeletal structure.

 Skeletal structure: Scoliosis and other problems with the spine will affect posture.

 Temperature: People may take a closed posture when they are cold.

The biggest single problem in

communication is the illusion it is taking

place.

George Bernard Shaw

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Invading Personal Space

Invading personal space is seen as an act of hostility. Western societies typically

use five different zones, depending on the social situations.

1. 12 feet: This zone is for the public. The purpose is to avoid physical

interaction.

2. 4 feet: This zone is reserved for social interactions such as business settings. Touching requires

the individual to move forward.

3. 18 inches: This is a personal zone. It allows contact, and it is reserved for friends and family.

4. 6 inches: This zone is reserved for close relationships. This zone can be invaded in crowds or

sports.

5. 0 to 6 inches: This zone is reserved for intimate relationships.

It is essential to remember that these zones are part of most Western cultures. There are reasons why

people will invade personal space that have nothing to do with hostility.

Personal Space Differences:

 Culture: Each culture has different boundaries and personal space.

 Background: Personal history and background will affect an individual’s concept of personal

space.

 Activity: Some activities require people to work closely. This should be considered before

assuming someone is invading personal space.

Quick Movements

Quick movements may be interpreted as a sign of nervousness. They may,

however, be used to draw attention to specific information when speaking.

Consistent jerking movements, however, do not always indicate nerves or

negative emotions. Do not make a snap judgment about quick movements.

There are reasons why movements may seem quick or jerking.

May alter movement:

 Stress

 Illness

 Exhaustion

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 Cold

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Fidgeting

Most people fidget from time to time. In interviews and social settings, fidgeting can

indicate nervousness, boredom, frustration, stress, or self‐consciousness. It is an

outlet to release feelings or an attempt at self‐comfort. Besides emotions, there are a

number of other reasons why people may fidget.

Other Reasons for Fidgeting:

 Attention deficit disorder: ADD and ADHD are often accompanied by fidgeting.

 Hormone imbalances: These may be accompanied by nervous energy.

 Blood sugar imbalances: Fidgeting accompanies sugar highs.

 Imbalanced brain chemistry: These may increase tension.

 Medications: Steroids and other medications can cause imbalances

Case Study

Sara was not impressed with Jon when she first saw him. His shoulders

were hunched over in a closed off position. She went into the interview

knowing that it would be a waste of her time. Jon’s head position,

however, showed interest. He had an engaging smile and was genuinely

interested in the position. Given his skills and complete body language

assessment, Sara became more positive about Jon as a candidate. The

interview revealed that Jon had worked a manufacturing job where his upper back was injured.