How to make a good impression using body language? by Pilar Ortiz

 People say that the first impression is the one that counts. I do not know how much we all agree- However, it is a fact that at the moment we meet someone, the little information we receive from the other person is enough for our brain to store it and, in addition, draw conclusions that are difficult to change. 

This is an amazing fact that alerts us to the importance of being aligned with who we are, and what we want to project. 

If the first impression counts, it is important to make the best one. That is just seconds we can project ourselves as those confident, trustworthy, and brilliant professionals and/or entrepreneurs that we are. Yes, because we are all that and even more, potential geniuses. 

But now comes the big question: How can we make the best impression when we are at a networking event or when we get to the interview for our dream job? Can we influence that first perception that the investor, the leader of the organization, or a potential client will have about us? 

My answer is yes, and your body language is the key. Before I give you the four steps I have for you today, I want you to remember that to impact others you don't have to become a person you are not, or act a certain way to please others. It's about being yourself, authentic, and above all confident, confident in your genius and potential. 

Now let's get started. Your body language expresses and communicates more than words, so if we want to make that good first impression, what accompanies what we say verbally must be forceful: 

1. Maintain good posture: I have seen many people who when introducing themselves as if trying to hide. This communicates insecurity and lack of confidence and is not what we want to convey. 

When we keep our shoulders extended and our head up we manage to project security, and, what is better, unconsciously we get our being to feel it, it is as if this posture not only communicates to the outside but also our inner self. 

2. Firm handshake: Shaking hands is a very common gesture in our culture, although in times of pandemic we avoid doing it. Be that as it may, the handshake says a lot and can empower or weaken the relationship that is about to be established. 

My advice is that when we use it, we hold our hands firmly and shake them a maximum of three times. This gesture conveys confidence.   

3. Make eye contact: Looks do communicate. I assure you that in a conversation when a person does not make eye contact with you, you feel uncomfortable and with the feeling that something strange is going on. 

That's why, if we want to project ourselves as trustworthy and transparent people, maintaining eye contact is key. What we can do is alternate our gaze between the other person's eyebrows, forehead, and eyes.  

4. Active listening: Active listening is a fundamental quality and skill in communication. 

When we listen attentively and demonstrate it, we are sending a very powerful message: That we are in the here and now, giving our attention to a person we just met and putting ourself aside to give the other person the value they deserve. 

It is powerful because people want and deserve to be heard and because it is also a reflection of a good leader. 

Now, how do we manifest it with our body language? What I recommend, in addition to eye contact, is nodding your head to the statements that are being shared with you. 

Now that you have these tools, put them into practice. Remember to also share this blog with others. 

I will share with you more techniques on verbal and non-verbal communication, to maintain that good impression you left the first time.