Our success as sales professionals is dependent upon our interpersonal skills, which, in turn, are dependent upon many variables, including body language. For this reason, it is important that we treat, and become aware of, our use of body language, just as we would any other skill in our repertoire of professional selling techniques. In his recent blog for LinkedIn Pulse, best-selling author Dr. Travis Bradberry (Emotional Intelligence 2.0), shares the 15 most common body language blunders that we should all avoid. Here’s his list:
- Slouching
- Exaggerated gestures
- Watching the clock
- Turning away
- Crossed arms
- Inconsistency (between words and facial expressions)
- Exaggerated nodding
- Fidgeting
- Avoiding eye contact
- Eye contact that’s too intense
- Rolling your eyes
- Scowling
- Weak handshake/Too strong handshake
- Clenched fists
- Getting too close
What caught your eye when you read the list? Most of these habits probably don’t apply to you. It is just as likely that there was one (or a few) that made you pause because you recognize them as part of your own persona. This is a good thing, since awareness of any problem is the first step toward its solution. In the coming days, monitor your body language for habits that could be undermining your customer interactions and your overall sales effectiveness. Make it a goal to become proficient in your use of body language, and add this newfound skill to your mix of professional selling techniques. For more detailed information on each item in the above list, read Bradberry’s entire article, 15 Body Language Secrets of Successful People.
