When it comes to leadership advice, there’s a wealth of information on how to communicate effectively with your employees to build trust, inspire productivity, and increase employee retention. Just as important in what you say out loud is what you say in non-verbal communication, often referred to as body language.
Non-Verbal Communication Tips for Leadership
While nonverbal communication is also frequently discussed, its importance is increasing. Thanks to technology’s distractions, some changes in office culture, and generational differences, leaders must be sure that they can practice exceptional nonverbal communication skills.
When leaders have strong communication skills, which includes body language, they’re able to be a stronger leader all around and:
- Create a cohesive team culture
- Inspire effective communication throughout their team
- Motivate their workers
- Decrease confusion on project specs
- Increase overall employee satisfaction
Use Eye Contact Effectively
Everyone knows that eye contact during conversation is important. This becomes harder when meetings are conducted virtually, but it can still be practiced no matter where you work.
If you’re speaking, making eye contact shows that you’re engaged with the people or person you’re talking to. If you’re listening, making eye contact shows that you’re listening.
One rule to help make it easier is that the person speaking should make eye contact 50% of the time, while the person listening should make eye contact 70% of the time.
Balance is key; be sure to make eye contact instead of staring. Some people recommend breaking eye contact after about five seconds and then picking it back up a few seconds later.
Creating a Pause for Emphasis
There is a lot of talking during a meeting. An effective strategy for conveying a point is to deliberately pause and create a beat of silence. This pause can help people really understand what was just said.
Again, balance with this strategy is key. A pause that is held for too long can cause discomfort and confusion among employees. And if a leader overuses this technique, it will lose its effectiveness.
Be Present
It is rare to witness a roomful of employees resist the urge to grab their cell phones or multitask. If you’d prefer your employees to keep their hands off their phones during meetings, keep your hands off yours as well. Give your employees your full attention, and soon, they will be more likely to follow your example.
Leaning In
The way you orient your body speaks volumes, even when you’re not saying a word. Turning your shoulders or torso toward the person speaking shows that you’re tuning into their message. Leaning in can show interest and enthusiasm in the conversation or topic. When someone asks a question, turning your body to face them, in addition to making eye contact, shows you value their question or comment. Clearly, body positioning is very important when it comes to showing your engagement and respect to others during a meeting of any size.
Attract Top Talent with Your Leadership Style
Enlist the help of Expert Staffing to recruit top talent to boost your team.
