Sunday, 21 October 2012

Posture reveals Stature

Isn't it amazing that we are able to gauge which people to trust and which ones to stay away from in less than 30 seconds according to a report in The Guardian? A study from the University of California, Berkley suggests that this can be done in less than 20 seconds. 

What does this mean for us? 

Well for starters, we should be aware that people judge is very quickly. It is imperative, therefore that we are aware of what people pick up and how they judge us. 

1. Posture. 
The first gauge of a person is how they carry themselves. 
That's me - relaxing before a presentation. 

  • How they stand. A confident person stands with an upright posture, and with shoulders pulled back. A person with low confidence normally is with shoulders slouched, and a little hunched. 
  • How they sit. Upright and seated on the edge of the chair shows interest. Slouched in the chair and leaning back show disinterest. Being relaxed in a chair and not posturing is a sign of not needing to impress, but comfortable in knowing that one has been there and done that. 
2. Gait
How we walk indicates whether we are enthusiastic, happy, depressed... people who are on a mission... or people in love ... have a spring in their step and it is as if they are waling on air. People who are down... and troubled... have a slow walk... and looks like they are aimlessly pulling themselves through the paces. 

3. Full Frontal Look
When people look at us sideways, they are showing lack of self esteem. People who are confident normally look at us directly... and ideally with the shoulders squared off. Look at people's head position and see if they are looking directly at you... eye to eye... and you will be able to tell a lot about them. Eye contact reveals a lot about a person. Whatever you do, do not stare at people. 

4. Facial Expressions
People who are very expressive on the face... are considered to be open and transparent. People who are stoic are thought to be closed and secretive. Using facial expressions... is a good way for people to get additional cues to read you. Using exaggerated or unnecessary expressions is seen as fake. 

5. Handshake
A warm handshake is a sign of confidence. A bone crushing one... is a sign of bravado.. and immaturity. A dead fish handshake is a clear sign of a lack of confidence. Be aware that the handshake is a great way for people who are kinesthetic... to read your warmth and friendliness. How long you continue the handshake is also giving off indication of your intentions. Keep the socially acceptable norms. Here is a great article from Women's Business that is pretty good to read. For those who like video... try Dianne Gottsman's tips. And if you want to see the 10 types of handshake and how they are perceived... check it out. 

These are only some of the attributes to work on ... and they will give you results. If you have any questions... feel free to comment on this blog... and I would be happy to reply. 

Meanwhile... have a positive, confident life. 

Ian Faria. 




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