This is part two of a 4 part mini-course on how to build your self confidence.  To make sure you recieve each part as it’s published use the subscribe box on the left to have them sent directly to your inbox.

Have you ever wondered why some people can enter a room and command a sense of power? They might not have spoken a word but their presence is sufficient to make everyone else sit up and pay attention. These individuals aren’t necessarily tall, muscular or beautiful but they almost certainly have the knack of executing the art of positive body language.

Whether you’re aware of it or not, you use body language on a daily basis to convey your feelings to other people. By learning to use your body language to your benefit, you can enhance your self-confidence and the confidence that others have in you. Body language can help you to achieve success in your career, your business dealings and in your personal life. By understanding body language, you can also gauge other people’s perceptions of you and of the situations they find themselves in: in other words, you can read people.

Although body language is a science in itself and people have spent years studying and trying to unravel the exact nuances of non-verbal communication, there are definitely some key points to look out for when you’re presenting yourself to other people. In obvious situations like conducting a meeting, confronting a partner, or going for a job interview, the need for affirmative and self-confident body language is imperative. However, as people get to know each other better then the more subtle aspects of their body language can help to reveal even more about their personalities.

Your eyes can say a lot about you and, in terms of coming across well to other people, direct eye contact is a safe bet. This is universally regarded as a sign that someone is being attentive and is interested in what the other person has to say. By looking someone straight in the eye you are giving the signal that you’re being honest. Your arms are another giveaway when it comes to body language and this might be something you’re not even conscious of when you’re talking to others. By gaining some knowledge about the outward signs that your body uses to convey your emotions, you can then take positive steps to address these and try to portray yourself in a more confident and accessible manner. Crossed arms are a sign of defensiveness and this physical barrier that you are putting between your body and the person you are talking to can be detrimental in many situations. In contrast, holding your arms behind your back is a sign of confidence. So, next time you feel your arms itching to cross themselves, push them behind your back instead and watch your confidence levels soar.

The handshake is another body language sign that is open to much interpretation. As it’s frequently used in situations that might have a bearing on your professional or personal life, make sure you get it right with a firm handshake that exudes confidence. Shake someone’s hand with your palm facing upwards and you’re submitting to their authority; palm down and you’re trying to dominate. If you use both hands, then you might give the impression that you’re a domineering character, so don’t go over the top.

Next: Part Three: Dress to Impress

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