Body Language and Photos

Many people post professional and personal photos of themselves online. They want to seem inviting in a business or personal sense, but their bodies are telling others the opposite story.

The pose many people use is to fold their arms across their chests. This shows defensiveness to Americans, as if the person is not open to new ideas. Others put their hands in their pockets, as if they are hiding something. It is much better to have your hands at your sides. This implies openness to new invitations. If you must do something with your hands, have one hand hold something. If you already have a photo posted with a defensive posture, today is the day to make a more friendly one!
If your photo is for professional purposes, make it look professional. Wedding photos, photos of you with your significant other or cute child, or photos of you with your pet are not appropriate, unless of course you are in the wedding business, match-making business, are a school director or run a pet-related business.
If making small talk is also an issue, Small Talk:Connecting with Others is a concise e-book with numerous practical tips. Individual coaching is also available.

Business Speech Improvement provides intensive training in verbal skills, as well as body language. Individual coaching, small group open enrollment courses and valuable e-books are all available!