Workplace body language can change how you are perceived at work. How you non-verbally communicate says differs depending upon where you live and work. For example, although smiling is considered a form of welcome in many cultures, it may also be perceived as a form of embarrassment in certain Asian cultures. If you work with people of different nationalities, understanding cultural body language is valuable.
For US workers, certain kinds of appropriate workplace body language helps others perceive you as honest, open to ideas, flexible, and engaged in what you do. Sitting in a straight but relaxed position in a chair during an office meeting says you are open and attentive. This quickly changes if you place your hands behind your head or cross your arms in front of your chest. Suddenly you are either expressing boredom or superiority with the former, or in a defensive position with the latter.
Rolling the eyes, checking your watch, not focusing on a speaker or not making eye contact can all be viewed as body language that says “I’d rather be doing something else.” Clenching the fists communicates anxiety or tension, and scratching your nose or forming a steeple with your hands expresses disinterest. Leaning back from another speaker says you’re either uncomfortable with the person’s ideas or are not interested.
Whether sitting, standing, or making eye contact, you are always communicating non-verbally. As mentioned above, straight but relaxed positions while sitting denote professionalism and engagement. Keeping the palms open and facing toward a person represent openness. Maintaining eye contact translates to honesty, but you should occasionally look slightly elsewhere otherwise you may be perceived as staring or as too intense.
Smiling and nodding are appropriate workplace body language when talking with others. They are a form of active listening that say, “I get you, and I agree with you.” When you don’t agree with someone it’s usually not appropriate body language to smile and nod, since your behavior after a conversation will seem like a contradiction of your body language. Leaning in more closely, but not too close, to a speaker also shows interest.
If you are standing and talking with someone, certain positions can be viewed as aggressive. Arms crossed over chest may be viewed as defensive, and hands on hips translate to “You can’t tell ME what to do.” Stand in a comfortable body position that is not slouching in order to convey attentiveness and openness. Using slight hand gestures while speaking suggests you are animated is an example of appropriate workplace body language.
Much is written about “personal space,” and respect for the personal space of others is a way of expressing good workplace non-verbal communication. Unfortunately, personal space tends to vary in individuals and in races. In the US, you should grant your co-workers about one to two feet (30.48- 60.96cm) of personal space. No part of your body should venture into this field, but do observe a person’s reactions. If a person backs away while you’re observing the two-foot rule, they may need a bigger space. If the person leans in, it can be appropriate workplace body language to have a smaller field. If the person stands or sits comfortably, you’ve probably got the personal space ratio right for that individual.
Determining appropriate workplace body language in regards to touching other people is a very “touchy” subject. While a firm handshake is welcome, touching another person on the arm, slapping them of the back or clapping them on the shoulder may not be. It helps to get to know people before you venture, if ever, into any touching beyond a handshake. Some people will perceive this as fine while others may feel uncomfortable with it.
If you must touch someone to get his/her attention, a light tap on the shoulder is usually the best approach. Use one or two fingers rather than the whole hand. Observe other’s reactions to see how contact affects them. Also be sure to read your company’s literature on sexual harassment and appropriate workplace conduct, as these will give you guides to appropriate workplace body language.
