|
What We Should Observe When We Talk. Body Language Cues.
What We Should Observe When We Talk
Here are some aspects of networking and carrying out a conversation that are very important: If you are networking for the sake of networking, you must be careful not to over expose yourself as well as pick up the signs of how the person you are networking with is feeling at the moment. Be particularly aware when talking to women, because they have a ‘sixth sense’ ability that picks up body language like an antenna. When networking with others, NEVER ever carry yourself in a superior manner where people ask you questions about yourself and you reply in a sarcastic, lofty manner to the point where you even start rolling your eyes (yes, there are many out there who do this SUBCONSCIOUSLY). Eye rolling is condescending and it is the fastest way to kill your network once word gets around that you are always in the clouds. People consider it rude when you turn your head in different directions when they are talking to you. Make sure you establish eye contact with the person you are networking with and don’t look everywhere.
When listening to someone else, it is always better to lean forward and listen intently rather than leaning back and folding your arms. Leaning forward really helps because they get the impression that what they say to you is of interest to you and it helps the flow of conversation Beware of defensive postures. If someone is not in the frame of mind for a conversation, it is best to back off rather than make things worse. A conversation is heading towards the danger zone when the other person is pulling his collar away from his neck or if he or she is rubbing their neck (signifying that you are a pain in the neck). End the conversation and try again much later. When you go over to someone’s house, make sure you remove your shoes before stepping in unless the host is already wearing them inside. When in doubt just ask because you may not be familiar with the local culture when you are networking with the locals as a ‘foreigner’. In some Asian cultures, it is very rude to point your feet in someone’s direction signifying disrespect! Take for example – the OK signal. To the Americans, it is commonly known as a positive sign or an A-Ok! But did you know that this signal means zero to the French? You don’t want to use this signal wrongly when discussing business deals L (As a matter of fact, the OK signal is actually used to signify an insult involving body parts to the Greek!) Be careful of the cultural usage of hand signals – you don’t want to get yourself into trouble because of something you didn’t know! Make sure you read up thoroughly before networking and carrying a conversation with foreigners – it will help your credibility a lot!
|
