The Art of Behavior What you need to know about on-camera body language

Why is body language important? Over half of the information you provide others about the connection you have with them comes from your body language. Some body language provides positive information and some provides negative information. Positive body language says things like, "I am really interested in what you are saying." Negative body language says things like, "I don't believe anything you are saying - and I am bored besides!"

Although body language originates in the old brain limbic system and is done unconsciously, with training you can learn to minimize negative body language.

Here are some of the don’ts: Avoid lack of eye contact. Force yourself to look others in the eye when greeting, talking, and especially when listening. Avoid mumbling. That is an unconscious need to avoid being heard Avoid poor pronunciation. Speak a bit slower and get it right.  Avoid extraneous body movements that do not positively support what you are saying. Finger drumming, scratching, twitching, and darting eyes around room all discredit what you are saying and your image as a person good to know.

Avoid poor posture. Do stand tall and proud to be you and believe in what you are saying. Avoid hiding your hands and palms. Evasive people with secrets don't show their hands. (Women show their soft wrist underside to flirt.) Avoid touching face when speaking. Rubbing nose, eyes, ears, head, or neck shows doubt in what you are saying or hearing Avoid closed body postures, like arms folded across chest. Do keep your posture open, except your legs. Crossed at the knee or ankle is O.K. (Depends a lot on the culture. For example, in Thailand don't cross your legs and point your toes at anyone!) Avoid an unblinking stare and the same facial expression. Blink normally and nod your head to show agreement, and that you are still alive and not bored to death.

Arms behind head, leaning back-In a new relationship, it is often used to express a desire for control or power. Hand covering mouth, chin- You are not being open, you could be lying or you could just feel insecure and vulnerable. If you touch your face when someone else is speaking, it could be that you don't believe what is being said. Fidgeting-Moving around, playing with things and drumming fingers are signs of boredom, nervousness or impatience Leaning away- Avoiding moving closer, even when something is handed to the person, is very negative. Looking down and to the left = a liar! Looking up and to the right = a struggle with memory Hands behind head leaning back in chair- Egotistical, superiority attitude Hand on neck - Person you are talking to is a pain in the neck.

A few do’s: Nodding - Leaning forward - Listening Understanding. Don't do this on camera often Head tilted (When listening) Open to hearing the facts. Don't do this on camera Open palms = I believe this. Honest gesture. Touching other person's arm. - Establishes relationship Vocal tone ends on a high note - Positive-open Smiles - Willingness to help- you can hear them too