Body language: unspoken tactics
Published
15th Jul 2009
by Admin
Body Language Tips to Help Avoid Redundancy
Unfortunately, staff redundancies are high on the list of priorities for many businesses in the current economic climate. When deciding who stays and who goes, the smallest things can make the biggest difference advises Elizabeth Kuhnke, Body Language Expert and Personal Impact Coach. Elizabeth provides her tips for staying on top. In meetings, the most important thing you can do is participate. Demonstrate interest and make sure you listen. Ask questions when you genuinely don't understand and speak only when you have something to add. Speak clearly, concisely, and with conviction. Remember that leaning forward is a sign that you want to enter into the discussion and leaning backwards is a sign of reflecting. Avoid fiddling with things as this demonstrates you are distracted. When working at your desk, the most importing thing to do is stay focused. If you concentrate on the task at hand you are more likely follow through. When talking to a colleague, make sure you avoid complaining or gossiping. While it might be hard, listen to what others are saying and keep your moans to yourself! Refrain from huddling around the water cooler with your colleagues unless you want to blend in. You want to be seen as a hard working individual - not one of the pack Be prepared when talking to your boss and know what you're going to say. If you're in doubt, say nothing and avoid wasting time. Remember to keep your mouth shut and your ears wide open. When you speak, make sure you're speaking in a respectful, considered fashion. Always avoid crying, shouting, blaming or any other behaviour that would put you in a negative light. If you have something useful, worthwhile or interesting to contribute, do so. Demonstrate your value by anticipating your boss's needs. If you are talking to someone you find difficult, the best thing to do is listen. Let them finish speaking before responding. Then, when it comes to your turn, you'll have a better understand of their point of view. If you do want them to stop talking, and you're in a position to do so, you can put up your hand as if to say, 'stop'. Speaking with your palms turned down demonstrates conviction and authority, while turning your palms upwards shows openness and approachability. If it is your aim to demonstrate control, turn your palms down and if you want to demonstrate responsiveness, turn your palm upwards. Elizabeth goes on to say: 'When facing redundancy, adding to your credibility is vital. The tips I've given may not protect your job, but if the time comes to discuss redundancies, your boss will certainly want to keep the employees making a noticeable difference to the company'.
