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Even if you don’t feel confident, you can boost your self-esteem and feel better if you practice confident body language.
Look up and look directly – looking up and directly at the other person’s eyes (for about 60% of the time) shows that you are open to dialogue and listening. At the same time, it will help you appear more confident.
Slow your movements, and don’t fidget – make an effort to slow down your movements. If you fidget, make a conscious effort to control it. Things like playing with a pencil, playing with your hair or repeatedly tapping your foot convey anxiety, nervousness, and less confidence.
Take larger steps – Walk with confidence by taking larger steps.
Sit and Stand up straight – another essential aspect to practice is sitting and standing upright with your back straight. Uncross your arms and legs and take up some space. This will help you look more confident.
Lean forward – When in a business environment, lean slightly towards those speaking, demonstrating that you are listening and engaged. Maintain a distance of the equivalent of a comfortable handshake. When presenting to a group, you should take up more room and own your personal space.
Be aware of your hands and give a firm handshake – several studies have demonstrated that our hand’s position reflects our confidence. Avoid pointing, putting your hands in the pockets or hips or crossing your arms. These are signs of impatience, disengagement, and nervousness. Instead, listen with your hands crossed or relaxed and linked fingers in your lap if seated. When speaking or giving a presentation, make expansive gestures to the audience with open palms and keep your hands in the area from your shoulders to the top of your hips.
Use power poses – try the superwoman or victory poses before a meeting, interview or presentation.
Do you have any other tips? Share in the comments.
