Body Language to Encourage Collaboration

We have previously blogged about expansive body language as an expression of power and confidence.  But what should your body convey when you want to encourage engagement and inspire and express confidence in your team?  In Forbes (http://onforb.es/1peKVES) Carol Kinsey Goman, Ph.D. discusses the link between body language and leadership.

To encourage collaboration, she says, it’s critical to pay attention when others are speaking. Leaders should adopt open body postures (no crossed arms or legs), lean forward, align their bodies with and mirror the stance of the person with whom they are speaking.   She also acknowledges the importance of nodding—noting that research shows people will talk three to four times more than usual when the listener nods in clusters of three.

We endorse these suggestions—and contend that they will also make you more persuasive.  Be especially mindful to pay attention. Giving in to the temptation to sneak a peek at your phone (or let your mind drift away from the conversation) will result in broken eye contact and broken rapport.

What body language cues do you look for to tell whether someone values and respects what you say?  What body language tip would you give your boss if you could?  Join the conversation: click "comments" below.
Image Credit: Kevin Dooley https://www.flickr.com/photos/pagedooley/

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