The body language cues that people register and look for, and judge by can be put into two key categories – warmth (empathy, likeability, caring) and authority (power, credibility, status). And no surprises here ladies, but this article reports that whilst there are some exceptions women triumph in the first, and men in the second. And both groups miss the mark of balancing both.
Some we already know, like we can smile excessively, not too much or use “girly” gestures to calm themselves or others. And rather then telling you to stop that completely, this article explains what to substitute in for a few. For example, rather then letting your voice rise when seeking approval, speak with an authoritative arc to your voice –rising in pitch during the sentence but dropping down to your starting note. Comments (1) | Trackbacks (0) | Permalink
Hugh Gyton commented on 04-Sep-2010 07:03 AM
Hugh Gyton commented on 04-Sep-2010 07:03 AM
What great advice and how hard is it to get that balance right between approachable and authority. Loved the piece about use the 'ark of the voice'. Whether we like it or not people are judging us at so many levels consciously and sub-consciously all the time - people with measured deep voices are considered more credible than those with higher pitched, less measured intonation. Sorry ladies just another bit of stereo-typing that might benefit us guys. It all goes to the need we all have to get more conscious in how we use our verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Conversations matter because they are the key to success, so get out there and use your natural warmth with authority.
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