“Research by the Income Center for Tradeshows found that people are twice as likely to remember you if you shake hands. According to the American Management Association, it takes only one-fortieth of a second to create a human bond. Whether you shake someone’s hand, squeeze their arm, or touch their shoulder, make these moments count to be remembered favorably.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“A person who offers a loose handshake, on the other hand (pun intended), may be interpreted as being uninterested, lacking confidence and self-esteem, weak, or being wishy-washy. Whether too strong or too weak, a bad handshake can set you back and close down a potentially rewarding relationship before it ever gets started.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“A simple handshake is not always a simple handshake. The way it is delivered can take on a million meanings and interpretations. As with every other form of body language and non-verbal communication, you are sending silent messages simply by the way you shake hands.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“A strong handshake conveys confidence, clarity, strength, and intention. As with everything else in life, if it is overzealous, it may be seen as aggressive, arrogant, or dominating. A bone-crushing vice-grip is just plain obnoxious and one of the fastest ways to make someone angry.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“What does a solid, comfortable, impressive handshake look and feel like? To deliver a great handshake . . .
• Extend your right hand out vertically at a comfortable waist level toward the person you are meeting.
• Connect hands with web to web contact made between the thumb and index finger.
• Be intentional and appropriate by showing mutual respect and teamwork.
• Gently squeeze firmly enough to be confident, yet lightly enough to be gracious. Shake a few times for good measure.
• Discreetly rotate your wrist so that your hand is slightly on top of theirs when you want to subconsciously convey self-assurance.
• Make eye contact and smile to show sincerity. Throw in an acknowledging head nod for good measure. Avoiding eye contact may be interpreted that you are not attentive or have something to hide.
• Introduce yourself and when they share their name, repeat it back to them to help you remember it. “It is nice to meet you John.”
• When in doubt, mirror their handshake to adapt to what makes them feel comfortable. Customize accordingly to the gender, age, position, personality, and culture of the person you are meeting.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Palm Reading 101
• Palm Up— Conveys openness, service, humility, and sympathy.
• Palm Down—Demonstrates authority, superiority, and control.
• Palm Vertical—Shows you are meeting on equal terms with a mutually respectful greeting.
• Palm Wet, Cold, or Clammy—Ick! The "dead fish" is creepy. Make your hands warm and dry before reaching out to touch someone, please! It can also be conveyed as being nervous or over-excited.
• Palm Perfect—This is my favorite. Better known as the "hand hug." While you are shaking hands with your right hand, place your left hand on top, wrapping both people in warmth and trust. This two-handed shake illustrates affection, caring, or concern, especially when you then reach up to grasp their arm or shoulder.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“High fives and fist bumps have become the popular alternatives to traditional handshakes, especially among the younger generations. As a new social norm, they are used as a greeting, an approval, an acknowledgement, a celebration, and a gesture of understanding. High fives and fist bumps are also viewed as a healthier alternative to traditional handshakes because they don’t spread germs.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Considerations & Exceptions for Impressive Handshakes
• Be mindful of a person’s age; be tender with arthritic hands. In that case, a loose and gentler handshake is a gesture of sensitivity and compassion.
• Show interest; even if your right hand is full, offer your left hand.
• Demonstrate respect when you are caught in an introduction while seated; try to stand.
• Be instinctive about when to allow the length of your handshake to linger to express unity, connection, or sympathy.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“All hugs are not created equal. Some people are naturally gifted in showering others with warmth and affection. They can hug with such a sincere intention it transcends a handshake. Their hugs feel genuine, non-threatening, and are emotionally consistent with the relationship they share with the "hugee.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“communication skills, quotes by Susan C Young, relationship quotes, emotional intelligence quotes, motivational speaker Susan Young, body language quotes, handshake quotes, make a positive first impression quotes, susanspeaks.com, customer service quotes”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Brian is a deeply compassionate man who was sad to learn that his work colleague, Tom, had lost his 17-year-old daughter to a drug overdose. When Tom returned to work weeks later, Brian approached him and said, “Man, I am so sorry. There are no words to express my condolences.
“Brian reached out to hug Tom. At first, he was rigid and on guard, but with Brian’s genuine embrace, he felt Tom release into his safety. Tom had been so incredibly strong for his wife and family that Brian’s powerful hug allowed him to surrender into another man’s strength. It was a memorable and powerful step towards healing. Sometimes a hug at the right time, even if spontaneous, can be the kindest thing you can do for another human being.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Hugging is quite an intimate contact. Considering the studies done on proxemics we looked at earlier; when you get within two feet of another person you are inside their intimate space. There are some people who truly do not want you in their 'bubble' unless you are close friends or they’ve given you permission. Assuming familiarity incorrectly can destroy rapport, make a bad impression, and risk everything you have done well up to then.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Look for all of the possible missteps in the following scenario. My friend Amy arrived at a consultation with her Hispanic business partner. The African American woman to whom they were delivering their presentation was a long-time friend of her partner’s. Her partner was greeted with a hug and Amy was greeted with a handshake. The meeting was a great success.
As it came to a close, the two friends hugged. With enthusiastic affection, Amy went to hug the African American client. The woman took a step, turned her shoulder to block the hug, and looked at Amy with dismissive anger. It was almost a defensive move. Her partner, recognizing this, put her arm around Amy to soften the situation and make light of the inappropriate gesture.
Everything turned out fine, but Amy was baffled by the barrier. She was confused by the woman’s reaction since their interaction had been cordial and positive. She wondered if she had been socially insensitive or culturally inappropriate. After much reflection, however, she realized that she had simply been too quick to assume familiarity. Thankfully, she earned and learned the lesson quickly to become more aware. Amy eventually earned the trust of her client and secured her valuable business.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Physical touch is one of my primary love languages. For those of us who share this love language, touching is an endearing gesture of affection, appreciation, and connection. It is not intended to be inappropriate in any way when we hug you upon meeting, pat your back, or squeeze your arm.
For us, it is an enthusiastic demonstration of friendship. However, there are many people who do NOT like to be touched—men or women. In spite of our good intentions, touching can make others feel awkward, offended, and in the worst-case scenario, violated. It is crucial to be vigilant and socially aware enough that you can read people’s cues to know when to pull back and contain yourself.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Confession. Years ago, I was invited to a cocktail party for an Asian-American networking group. As I introduced myself to a Japanese businessman, I reached out and firmly shook his hand. Much to my embarrassment now, I automatically took my other hand and wrapped our hands in a “hand hug.” This is a common gesture of friendship in the South. As his wife approached, however, she appeared appalled and felt disrespected that I was touching her husband. Our cultural differences were marked. Despite this cultural mishap, I was able to redeem myself. We all moved past it and delighted in an interesting conversation. Physical touch is a touchy topic (pun intended), especially when various cultures are involved.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Seek to make others feel comfortable by demonstrating respect for their individual needs as well as their cultural norms. Your consideration and heightened awareness will guide you well—and help you make a great first impression.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Approachability. Being warm and inviting demonstrates comfort, care, and emotional safety all of which encourages engagement. Your openness says, “I’m happy to meet you and am glad you’re here.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Handshakes, Hugs & Other Touching. Learning how to touch appropriately can elevate your presentation, demonstrate respect, and convey confidence.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Orientation & Proximity. Be aware of the orientation between yourself and others so that you can be sensitive and responsive to their comfort zones.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Smiling and Expressions of Emotion. A genuine smile is inviting, contagious, and encouraging. People do read a book by its cover and your expressions provide a glimpse for what they’ll find inside.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Eye Contact. Direct eye contact is one of the best compliments you can give to another. You are subliminally telling them that you are listening, they matter, and that what they have to say is important.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Energy & Aura. You release your own distinctive energy signature which naturally produces a physical presence. When you emit positive energy, thoughts, feelings, and vibrations, you attract more positives into your life.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“A friend recently shared that even if he is in a rough mood, when someone smiles at him it enhances his kindness and encourages him to project a better attitude.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“I attended a symposium to hear Shilagh Mirgain, Ph.D. speak on Mindful Leadership. Throughout her program, I made sure to make eye contact and smile to support, affirm, and engage with her presentation. When audience members do this for me, it adds an extra punch of dynamic energy that enriches my presentations and improves my performance.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“One of the speaking programs I deliver is entitled, "Service with a Smile . . . How to Create a Sensational Customer Experience." Smiling is at the heart of my teaching because when employees smile while delivering service, it tells the guest/client/customer . . .
You matter.
You are important.
We are glad you are here.
We appreciate your business.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“When you see people smiling, does it give you a sense of connection with them? The law of reciprocity illustrates it is hard to not smile back when someone smiles at you.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Whether you smile to make a great first impression for customer service, building rapport, communicating your intentions, networking, sharing your happiness, closing deals, or demonstrating you are fully present and engaged, smiling is the key to your success.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Smiling Bloopers
• Insincere smiling can backfire! (Different from a shy smile that just beckons a friendly "hello.")
• Transitioning from a smile to a straight face, too quickly, may give others the impression that you are fake or do not like them.
• Going overboard and smiling all the time, especially when it is inappropriate, will make you appear insincere.
• If your mouth smiles, but your eyes don’t, there is a disconnect that can make you appear less authentic and trustworthy.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Have you decided to simply smile and nod to avoid a confrontation with someone who was being a jerk? Have you ever feigned agreement with your face to get along with others, even when you disagreed with their position? We all have. Your expressions of emotion can protect you at times in awkward situations, and when used with integrity. Test the waters by responding with an expression of curiosity or bewilderment when someone is acting inappropriately.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“While smiling is a powerful facial gesture, there are other expressions on your face which reveal an extraordinary number of emotions. A body language of its own, people will read your facial messages and form opinions about you before you’ve even said a word.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Smiling is one of your most powerful non-verbal behaviors. People do read a book by its cover and these expressions provide glimpses into what they will find inside.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“What are you projecting? How are you showing up? Are you aware of how your expressions are impacting your communication with others?”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“At any moment, you can use your face to open doors of opportunity if it demonstrates interest, enthusiasm, respect, understanding, delight, agreement, and more.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Look at the single words below; wear these emotions on your face for just a moment. Try them on for size and note how they make you feel:
Happiness. Fear. Anger. Sadness. Contempt. Surprise. Disgust.
These are the basic human emotions which communicate with clear understanding across cultures, languages, and countries. In other words, a smile naturally conveys happiness and a frown naturally conveys sadness, no matter where you may be using your passport.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“According to the “universality studies” conducted by psychologists Paul Ekman, Carroll Izard, and Friesen (1969-1972), the words
Happiness. Fear. Anger. Sadness. Contempt. Surprise. Disgust.
describe the natural expressions of emotion shared by the entire human race.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Beyond these universal expressions of emotion, there are hundreds of variations which are often a matter of choice, whether consciously or subconsciously. Most every facial movement is connected to an emotion that conveys your state of being and your attitude”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“It is through these facial expressions that we write and feel our life story, create lifelong social habits—through which we are received and perceived by a multitude of others. When you want to make a positive first impression, let your face know!”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“See Your Expressions Through the Eyes of Others. Take the initiative to stand in front of a mirror and practice a wide range of emotions so that you can see what other people are seeing. Video tape yourself and watch your movements and your expressions. You can pick up on clues to what you need to fix and where you could improve your presentation.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“My friend Julie was cooking dinner in her kitchen one night. Her expression was blank as she stood alone working by herself. Her daughter walked in and gasped, “Mom! What’s wrong?” She said “Nothing. I’m fine.” In response, her daughter added, “Then tell your face! You scared me!” Emotional expressions can easily be misinterpreted when we are not aware of what people are seeing. Being deep in thought can look that way.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“I am so completely transparent with my heart on my sleeve, I've never had a good poker face my entire life! The old-fashioned term "poker face" connotes that a person is expressionless, leaving the people around them clueless as to what is going on in one’s heart and head. The poker face conceals his thoughts and feelings to such a degree that it is difficult to interpret his emotions. Believe me, there have been times when I wish I could have carried this off.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Be aware, putting on a poker face can backfire during your first impressions because it can make people uncomfortable and make you more difficult to read and harder to get to know.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“When my son was a teenager, he would use the ‘poker face’ tactic when I was lecturing, nagging, or suggesting. As a parent, it was maddening because I could not read his reactions! His stoicism would sometimes deflate my efforts or make me surrender in laughter, changing the subject all together.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Well Hello Halo! It is human nature for us to make generalized judgments about a person using only a couple of traits. The "Expressivity Halo" Theory explains how we connect various personalities to specific facial expressions and assign assumptions about that person.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“We are more likely to trust a person who is easier to read; they're easier to believe. Or we tend to think that an energetic and happy person will be more productive. Even traits such as competence, dominance, and courage can be conveyed by certain facial expressions and will stimulate unconscious bias.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“ASK YOURSELF: Are your facial expressions in alignment with your true personality? Are they working on your behalf to project the best impression possible?”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“As a professional speaker, my facial expressions are essential for effectively telling stories, engaging audiences, fostering involvement, and connecting on a personal level. One day I decided to get Botox in my forehead to erase a few wrinkles and signs of aging. Much to my surprise and disappointment, I could no longer raise my eyebrows. My face was stuck in a heavy-browed expression, which is the polar-opposite of my joyful spirit and enthusiastic nature. It makes a funny story, but it taught me that authenticity wins over vanity any day!”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Poise: a graceful and elegant bearing in person; a composure of dignity and manner.
Postures: the position of a person’s body when standing, sitting, or walking; carriage, bearing, and stance.
Gestures: moving parts of your body to express an idea, opinion, emotion, or meaning.
“Poise confirms purpose. Postures portray personality. Gestures express emotions. Your poise, postures, and gestures make a powerful statement about who you are and how you feel about yourself. This dynamic trio speaks volumes about you.”
“How do you enter a room? How do you walk into a job interview? How do you approach a sales prospect for the first time? Accomplished leaders know that the way they make an entrance can project their confidence and set the tone for their interaction with others. Use your poise, postures, and gestures to make it grand.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“ASK YOURSELF: Do you appear self-confident or unsure? Do you project a calm demeanor or scream instability? Do you come across as a leader or try to stay invisible? Do you walk with purpose and intention or doubt and trepidation? Do you look vibrant and energetic, or stressed out and overwhelmed?”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
“Since non-verbal signals have five times the impact of verbal signals, paying attention to the image you are projecting is crucial to your first impressions.”
Source: The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact