What Your Body Language Says About You In the Office

Did you know that the way you present yourself can say a lot about what you're thinking without even saying a word? That's right; our body language could be the biggest window to our emotions, even if we have no idea that we're giving away so many clues.

Learning what your body language says about you in the office might not mean we can instantly override what our bodies naturally do, but it could be the thing we need to learn about how we present ourselves to our coworkers - and what they could silently be saying back. Who would have thought?

Pay attention to how much personal space is needed

Each culture comes with its own thoughts on personal space. Still, it's best to learn what the other person needs from a conversation when in the office. If you're having a conversation about something that could cause conflict or is difficult, your coworker might feel like they need some more space between you. Then again, if they're telling you something confidential, your coworker might lean in closer and feel more in your personal space. It's all about reading what they need to ensure you don't overstep their personal mark and make them uncomfortable.

Be engaged in the conversation to show you're listening

If there's one thing plenty of us hate when talking to coworkers, it's when you can tell they're not really listening. Sure, this can sometimes be on us if we interrupt them right when they're in the middle of a time-consuming task, but that's not always the case. If you have the time to talk to your coworker, be sure to show them you're listening. This means no checking your texts or emails during the conversation. It also means telling the other person if you're going to be taking notes, so they know you might be looking down every now and then. This is especially important when on video calls, as they might not be able to see what you're looking down at throughout the conversation.

Crossed arms can be a sign of being defensive

Did you know that crossed arms can show someone you're being defensive? That's likely not what you want when talking to your coworkers, so be sure to check if they naturally fall into this way when you're in a meeting. It can also be a sign that someone is thinking, depending on what they usually do with their arms. Still, crossed arms are a form of body blocking and a way to keep people out of our space.

Slouching can show weakness to coworkers

Learning not to slouch at the office is important for so many reasons, especially as it can lead to back issues down the line. However, that's not all. Slouching in your chair during conversations or at meetings can tell someone you're vulnerable, weak, or you're feeling too tired to take part in the conversation. Instead, stretch your spine up straight and try to sit with your shoulders back. From there, lift your chin so that you're at eye level with everyone else in the conversation and project your confidence into the world - even if you need to fake it to start.

Maintain eye contact when you're trying to make your point

There are so many ways we can get our points across at the office, and sometimes it can be something as simple as the way we use our body language. When you start a conversation with someone, be sure to keep eye contact with them, but don't stare. Instead, think about if you're deliberately trying to look away and try to change it. This is especially important when it comes to getting your point across, as maintaining eye contact is usually a good sign that someone is being honest and open.

Learning what your body language says about you in the office could be all some of us need to change the way we are perceived at the office. After all, communication is key. At the very least, we might be able to learn a little more about what our coworkers are really thinking.