5 Body Language Mistakes to Avoid in the Workplace

It's a well known fact that a person's body language can sometimes speak louder than words. Therefore, you should pay extra attention to yours at the workplace. Here are 5 common body language mistakes to avoid. 

1. A Weak Handshake

I think it's safe to say that a weak handshake means you're a weak person. (And I'm not talking about deadlifting more than 200 lbs). Nobody likes greeting someone with a firm handshake and getting a dead fish on the other end. Tighten up, squeeze the hand, hold for 2 seconds, and always make eye contact. (Add a wink if you want to establish dominance)

2. Slouching (or bad chair posture)

Sit up straight and keep your midsection tight. Slouching, or even falling out of your chair, means you're uninterested, or bored, with work. If you struggle with this try and get an office chair with a seat belt.

3. Avoiding Eye Contact

If you avoid eye contact while having a conversation with a coworker you might as well just say to them, "I don't like you." Or it could mean you're hiding something from them. Common examples of hiding something would include: lunch theft, slept with their husband/wife, and farting.

4. Folding Arms

Folding your arms, although very comfortable, can spell disaster. It usually means you're angry, and unwilling to participate in team building exercises. Just because you hate trust falls, the name game, kickball, and mandatory luncheons doesn't mean you have to pout and rain on everyone else's parade.

5. Leaning Away From Others

Leaning away from someone during a conversation is another form of disinterest, or being uncomfortable with the situation. Show a little confidence once in a while. Invade their space, and put the onus of being uncomfortable on them.