and how can you show it?
It is interesting that we can meet new people at a business event and find some absolutely magnetic and others pretty uninteresting. All of them are trying hard to be amenable and to make a good impression but only some of them succeed.
I believe that one of the key reasons this happens is because of the subconscious perception of confidence (or lack of it) and this can be measured by examining the use of voice and body language.
This isn’t really rocket science, it’s common sense but see what you think.
Perception of Confidence – Body Language
- Standing straight and balanced
- Making direct eye-contact
- Firm handshake
- Smiling
- Face reflects emotion when listening
- Not shifting weight between feet
- Looking relaxed
Lack of Confidence – Body Language
- Shoulders hunched
- Eyes down or restless
- Inability to make direct eye-contact
- Body constantly moving
- Does not appear to be listening
- Lacking emotion in responses
- Appearing tense
Perception of Confidence – Voice
- Sufficient volume to be easily heard
- Good clarity when speaking
- Pace controlled
- Pauses indicating thought
- Interesting modulation which shows real engagement
- Ease in communication
- Warm tone by smiling
Lack of Confidence – Voice
- Quiet – need to strain to hear
- Poor clarity – a lack of precision in completing words
- Too rapid for understanding
- None or very few pauses
- The voice is rather flat without clear indication of key words
- The tone is lacking in warmth and does not encourage communication
Think about some recent communication and whether it could have been more successful. Many of the areas highlighted can be improved just by a little focus and concentration. Others need skills which can be taught by someone like me but you really DO NOT need to be an extrovert to make your 1-2-1 meetings produce positive outcomes.
Give it a try at your next networking or sales meeting and see if CONFIDENCE shines through.
Speak wisely
Speak well
Speak Loud & Clear!
Twitter: @VoiceExpert