Body Language Zhejiang University of Finance & Economics Dong Fang College Toriano Cook

What is Body Language? zWe can communicate using gestures, movements and signals without speaking. zSometimes, how we feel or what we mean can be expressed by how we move our bodies or the expressions on our face. zImportant to remember that some body language is cultural, so what may mean one thing here, may be something totally different there.

Using your body to speak zHow would you tell me yes using your body language? How about no? zHow do you show someone you’re happy? zHow do you show someone you’re sad? zHow do you let me know that you’re angry and I should probably leave you alone?

What do you mean when you… zShrug your shoulders zAvoid eye contact with someone zYawn when listening to someone zWave your hand at someone zSit with your arms and legs crossed zStare at someone zSit upright on the edge of the chair

“Body Language”

Hand Gestures zWe use our hands to communicate. zEither we use our hands to express and idea or we don’t use them at all to avoid miscommunication. zWhat are some common hand gestures used here in China? zAre there hand gestures considered to be bad and avoid by visitors?

Good or Bad Hands zIn the US and Canada, this is a very rude gesture that might start a fight if you use it. You should avoid raising your middle finger and especially at another person (unless you want to fight!)

Good or Bad Hands zIn the UK, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand, make sure that when you have your fingers in the V shape, your palm is facing outward. Otherwise, it’s the same as the middle finger in America.

Good or Bad Hands zMaking a circle with your index finger and thumb in France means "zero" or "worthless." In Venezuela, Turkey, and Brazil, it's vulgar and will offend people… A LOT!!!

Good or Bad Hands zIn the Middle East, India, Sri Lanka, and Africa, the left hand is traditionally seen as unclean, because it is associated with cleaning yourself after using the bathroom. So not okay to eat using your left hand.

Good or Bad Hands zIn Korea, this is how people call their dogs. The proper way to wave is to move your hand up and down with your palm facing down.

Private Space... zYou are on a crowded elevator, subway or bus. zWhat is your private space?

Personal Space In The West zIntimate yTouching y15cm - 45cm zPersonal yClose: 0.5m m yFar: 1m - 1.5m z Social yClose: 1m – 2m yFar: 2m – 3.5 z Public yClose: 3.5m – 7m yFar: 7m or more

If you invade my space… zReactions to an invasion of your space yFeel troubled yGet defensive yBecome aggressive

Looking zHow long do you look? yStaring- dehumanizes or challenges yGlances - socially acceptable timing yAppraisal- may indicate interest zDo you look when you talk? zDo you look when you listen?