Anyone who uses Zoom or a similar video platform at work has been urged to consider their nonverbal communication
Body language is often key when working in an office environment. Nobody wants to look bored when their colleague delivers an important pitch or uninterested when their boss presents a new strategy, and the same goes for virtual meetings.
Making a good impression at work can definitely earn you respect from others. It shows that you’re professional, capable, and dependable, which helps build trust and credibility. A great first impression, combined with consistent actions like being accountable, genuine, communicating well, and being ready to assist, can boost confidence in your skills and pave the way for future opportunities and promotions.
According to body language expert Patti Wood, first impressions are key in corporate settings, and it’s not limited to the days you’re working in the office. Even when you’re connecting with colleagues via Zoom or similar video platforms, your nonverbal communication can be telling.
Patti Wood holds a BA and MA in Body Language and Nonverbal Communication. She told Quartz: “In business, you’re forming a first impression when you walk in the door in the morning, which tells everybody how you’re going to act that day. When you get on a phone call, when you get on a Zoom, each of those interactions forms a first impression.”
She continued: “You can profoundly affect not just how people see you but [also] how successful you’re going to be at getting people to do things for you, getting cooperation from people, earning esteem from your peers and your boss by that impression that as you start an interaction.” Fortunately, Patti shared her top tips that workers to make a good impression.
Arrive early
For her first point, the expert wanted to recap the basics. Patti highlighted the importance of making eye contact and greeting coworkers when possible. She added that going to the meeting before it starts is a simple method of looking like you’re in control.
Don’t forget your hands
According to the expert, closed fists can “close you off” to your peers. Conversely, it’s helpful if people can see your hands and you have open palms, as it’s said people have a “primal” wonder about what you’re doing with your hands. “Our stress and cortisol levels remain high on Zoom because we are staring at people, which is not normal,” Patti added.
Sharing another tip with the publication, communication coach Dr Don Weber advised you leave your phone out of view when you’re joining a Zoom call. Similarly, he suggests leaving any possible distractions in another room. The key is making sure you can focus on the other people joining the call.
No need to fake it until you make it
In fact, Dr Don suggests you can’t fake it until you make it, as true confidence shows naturally in conversation. He says you’re either prepared or you’re not. The expert adds that people will likely know if you’re nervous, like if you’re being interviewed for a job. But it’s not a bad thing. “Their mind is scanning for incongruences between your words and body language,” he explained. Dr Don added that presenting yourself as deceitful is the worst thing you can do.
Equally, you might be watching your colleague’s body language to see what it tells you. Body language expert Adrianne Carter has revealed how to spot if someone you’re talking to agrees with you. A trained counsellor and psychotherapist, Adrianne is also certified in Neuro-Linguistic Programming and Natural Success Psychology Coaching, according to her website.
Adrianne demonstrated the telling behavioural trait in a viral TikTok video. Posing with her left hand just below her chin and the index finger pointing upwards by her ear, Adrianne told viewers: “Notice where my hand and my finger is on my face – you might see this in a meeting or when you’re interacting with someone – they’re thinking about what you’re saying.”
She claimed that as someone’s finger moves higher up their face, it suggests “they’re thinking, but also not really approving or liking what has been said.” Adrianne added: “So watch for that finger – and how far it goes up the face.”
