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Body language - the key to success

Some people apply these research statistics to dating, some apply to business and work. It sure is enlightening to know that...

• 55% is through body language
• 38% is the tone and speed of their voice
• Only 7% is through what they say 

You can read the reference article here.


In another words, people form an impression of you not so much from the words that you say but more on THE WAY you say it. It would in turn influence the way they respond to you and their attitudes.


In the initial stage of my career, I tend to focus a lot on the words I say because the nature of my work is giving information and counseling so I cannot afford to say the wrong thing or miss out on certain important points.


As time goes by, I realized my clients tend to respond better when I don't articulate my questions in a robotic manner but probe for information with a more casual tone instead. When giving advise or information, use short pauses in between to let them digest or question. People instinctively don't like silence, so when employed correctly it would prompt the other party to fill in the silence gap. 


Another important communication aspect is listening. We must first learn to listen intently before speaking so that we would appear more empathetic (even if we don't necessarily agree with what was being said). Maintain eye contact and stand up straight. No crossed arms or leaned body. Body language can convey your sincerity.


As for the tone, always keep a soft and neutral tone; make the tone a little firmer if we are trying to bring across a point. Avoid using "erm", "why" and "so". "Erm" as a filler can can make us sound unsure. "Why" makes us sound interrogative, and too many "so" makes us sound naggy or authoritative.


Learn to maximize and practise the art of Body Language. It's one of the keys to good communication and in building successful work relations.

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Comments

  1. Singapore Man of Leisure11/02/2012, 18:19

    Women are better at this instinctively than men.

    If you can talk to your clients like speaking to your kakis, half the battle is won. Everybody is relaxed and open.

    Observe the body language of your kakis when they are relaxed and open to your company ;)

    But do be careful with men. Sotong men may misread your "friendliness" as you being interested in them!? Face-palm!

    I should know. I am one such SOTONG!

    But now I know better.

    LOL!

    ReplyDelete

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