Have you ever noticed that the media is more interested in how politicians look and act than in their policies? You make your most important inferences by how a leader gesticulates than through what he says, and the same is true in business. Your corporate wellness is steeped in more than your work performance; it’s in how people see you, and interpret your body language. So how can your appearance and actions influence your workplace wellbeing?
Your eyes – According to leadership consultant Sonali Masih, author of Corporate Nirvana, ‘Looking at Steve Jobs pictures when passed away, I remember being struck by how alive he seemed in his photographs…He could connect with the person who was looking at him, and somehow, some part of me wanted to buy that product. That is the attraction of a fully engaged and alive leader.’ The eyes reveal something of what’s going on in your mind, so make sure to keep yours alert and energised, so your team knows how motivated and engaged you are.
Your walk – The way you carry yourself when you walk says a lot about what you’re thinking. If your head is down, your shoulders are drooping and you’re lethargically dragging yourself along, surely you’re going to bring that sense of defeat into being. Instead, look ahead, keep your shoulders straight, and stride with confidence. That way, others will feel like you know what you’re doing, and you’re on the right path.
Your smile – Grinning may not be high on your list of priorities during a stressful workday, and you may not even realist you have a grumpy expression, but smiling goes a long way in making people like you. Not only will people like you more if you smile and give a little “good morning” nod, but the feeling is contagious, and will lead to a happier work environment for all.
Your hands – Have you ever noticed a news reader’s hands? They’re always kept under control, with the minimum amount of gesturing, as too much gesticulating can convey over-excitement and a lack of self-restraint. If you’re leading a team, you want their attention on your face and your message, rather than distracting them with your hands, so place your hands at chest level, and keep the gestures to a minimum.
Comments are closed.