Look credible when it matters most

Whether you have a job interview coming up or an important meeting – being seen as credible is key. Read on for five easy tips to project yourself in the best light.

In today’s high-powered business world it is your credentials that help you succeed. To truly stand out, you need to ensure you look credible when it matters most – face to face. The following auditory and visual cues will help you to be seen as credible, smart and trustworthy.

1.  Keep a level head

We mean this in a literal sense. In the animal world, the alpha male is recognised by his body language. Imitate this by keeping your head level – no dropping or raising your chin, which can be seen as submissive or aggressive.

2. Stay within the gesture box

Our hand gestures can be incredibly telling to others. The most effective gestures occur within the ‘gesture box’, no lower than your hips, no higher than your chest and no wider than your shoulders. Gestures at naval height are considered the most genuine.

3. Speak up

It is quite common in a business setting for vocals to be too quiet, or for volume to drop off at the end of sentences. Speak with intent and volume (but avoid shouting) to get your points across and appear confident.

4. Hold eye contact

We all know how important eye contact is in terms of confidence and credibility. Duration of eye contact in particular is important – aim to hold eye contact for three to five seconds to project the right image.

5. Be an active listener

It is all well and good to listen to others when they are speaking, but if you appear bored or disconnected while you’re listening – you could lose any credibility you had. Being an active listener means keeping your posture open, your head up and naval pointing towards the speaker. Show cues that say ‘I’m listening’ and don’t simply wait until it’s your turn to talk. Take in what they’re saying and respond with something of relevance.

If you struggle with things like job interviews, meetings and presentations, hiring a life coach could help you learn techniques like this to boost confidence in the workplace. For more information, take a look at our Business Coaching page.

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Written by Kat Nicholls
Kat is a Senior Writer for Life Coach Directory and Happiful magazine.
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Written by Kat Nicholls
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