How to Make a Good Impression Without Saying a Word

STRIKE A (POWER) POSE

Remember that viral TED Talk about power posing? Yeah, well, do that. Stand with your chest open, kind of like a superhero. As for your hands, you’re not going to go full-on Wonder Woman and place them on your hips. But you should at least avoid putting them near your face and mouth, which makes you seem nervous or self-conscious.

DON'T CROSS YOUR ARMS--UNLESS YOU'RE IN A GROUP

Scientifically, crossing your arms forces you to engage both sides of your brain, making it easier to focus and solve problems. Problem is, when you’re one on one, crossing your arms makes it seem like you’re shutting yourself off. In a group, however, crossing your arms signifies that you’re listening intently.

MAKE EYE CONTACT--BUT NOT TOO MUCH

This one’s all about balance. A lack of eye contact conveys disinterest, but too much eye contact conveys…that you’re creepy. Maintain steady bouts of contact with the person you’re talking to (shoot for 50 to 60 percent), but look somewhere else when formulating your thoughts. It will seem much more natural than staring into someone’s eyes while you’re thinking. 

LEAN IN--BUT NOT TOO MUCH

Similar to making eye contact, leaning in requires restraint. Tilt your body slightly towards theirs, but be careful not to encroach on their personal space. No one likes a close talker, but a subtle lean shows that you’re interested and engaged. If you can smell the onion bagel they had for breakfast, you’ve gone too far.

USE PROPS WISELY

If holding a soy latte while chatting makes you feel more comfortable, be aware of where you hold the cup. It should be closer to your waist, since holding an object near your eyes and mouth makes seems like you’re putting up a physical barrier between you and another person.

TALK WITH YOUR HANDS

Studies have shown that talking with your hands improves your thinking process. It also shows whomever you’re talking to that you believe in what you’re saying, therefore making you appear more credible.

BE A COPYCAT

Mimic the motions of the person you’re talking to. Taking note of someone’s behavior and subtly mirroring it signifies that you’re in agreement or on the same team. Just be sure not to be too obvious--we don’t want things to get weird up in here.