Positive Body Language
Did you know that people will form their first impressions within 30 seconds of meeting you? Displaying the wrong signals could mean being snubbed socially or even cost you a job. Maximise the impression you make with these tips from body language expert Robert Phipps.

Meeting New People

• Be physically open Don’t cross your arms or use anything you’re holding, such as a drink, as a barrier. If you’re right handed-hold your drink in your left hand. That way you can offer to shake hands quickly and not with a cold clammy hand.
• The handshake needs to be firm Too weak and you’ll look passive and pathetic, too strong and you’ll seem threatening.

At a Party When The Only Person You Know Is Late

• Find a target This should be a group of people with whom you’d usually feel comfortable – perhaps a small group of women or another stray like yourself. Take them into your confidence and explain your situation. Once in the group, mirror their stance. It shows rapport and after a while you should see (if things go well) that they start to mirror you.

At a Job Interview

• Maintain good eye contact Aim to hold the interviewer’s gaze for 60-70% of the time. Any less and you will be perceived as shy or deceptive. Any more and you can come across as aggressive.
• Glasses can work for or against you They act as a barrier, but can make you look intelligent. Weigh it up, depending on the impression you want to make (and how much you want to see).
• Don’t cross and uncross your legs It’s distracting and is another barrier.