Women and the Power of Body Language: Be Competent and Confident

Increasingly more women are taking leading roles within the workplace, but unfortunately, many competent women are not being recognized because of their weak body language. Our body language says so much..

Pauline Fredericke said ' When a man gets up to speak people listen , then look. When a woman gets up, people look; then, if they like what they see, they listen'

And lets be honest there is some truth in her statement which puts greater pressure on women to adopt body language that says ' I am strong and confident' and not 'I am nervous and flimsy'.

Women do have a tendency to use body language that suggests they are uncertain even if they do happen to be an expert in their chosen field. Certain body language can a label a highly intellectual and competent woman as weak and insecure.

If you are a woman that is waiting to make a presentation before an audience, keep in mind that you can be seen even whilst waiting your turn. So be sure not to let your first impression be one of slouching, exhibiting nervous mannerisms (such as constantly shuffling notes) or keeping your head down and eyes to the ground.

When your turn comes and you have to rise and approach the podium do so with head held high and comfortable strides. Smile and nod to people as you go.

Be sure that your shoes are comfortable and don't make you look like you are about to topple over. For extra stability stand feet facing forward with feet approximately 12 inches apart.

Smile

Now, you are standing comfortably and relaxed at the podium but it is not the time to forget body language. Keep your head up. Imagine that it is suspended from the ceiling by a chord. Don't wave it around but make appropriate gestures such as small nods.

Eyes are important, too. Women are not too good at eye contact as we have been conditioned to believe that eye contact for a woman is brazen or even aggressive whereas the male of the species has been taught over the centuries to 'look people right in the eye.' But making eye contact with members of your audience will bring rewards. People will respond to you with smiles, nods and other gestures which is always encouraging.