When people cross their arms tightly, they’re very closed to what’s going on. Chances are you’re not going to get them to change their minds, either! And if they cross them while making a fist, they’re mad, too.
If you’re want to strategically use your body language, cross your arms just as tightly as theirs. Use some tension in your voice. People who are being this negative are usually doing so because they don’t feel understood and want to be. If you just match their body language, you’ll give them the unconscious message that you really get them. Once this meeting of the minds occurs, they’ll loosen up, and effective conversation can start. For more tips on strategic use of body language, get your copy of my new book Body Language Confidential today! In it you’ll learn how to interpret 75 of the most common moves you see people do and how to appropriately respond.
