Description

In last week’s podcast episode of the podcast, Episode 105 – Communication Etiquette (https://managingacareer.com/105), I talked about how seemingly small, everyday actions can shape how others perceive you at work. While these habits may not directly earn you a promotion, they quietly build your reputation with the very people who influence those decisions. This week, I want to take that conversation further by focusing on something even more subtle but just as powerful: non-verbal communication cues.

Why Non-Verbal Communication Matters

Whether you’re in a casual hallway conversation, presenting in a meeting, or connecting over a video call, the way you carry yourself sets the tone for how others receive both you and your ideas. Confident posture, purposeful hand gestures, and aligned facial expressions signal credibility and invite trust. On the other hand, shrinking into your chair, avoiding eye contact, or trying to make yourself small often leads people to unconsciously dismiss not only your presence—but also the value of your message.

Confident non-verbal communication isn't just window dressing—it’s the foundation of trust. Behavioral researcher Vanessa Van Edwards underscores how our brains are wired to interpret nonverbal cues before we're even consciously aware of them—it’s a silent language louder than words ( https://www.mickmel.com/notes-from-cues-by-vanessa-van-edwards/?utm_source=chatgpt.com, https://singjupost.com/unlocking-the-hidden-power-of-body-language-vanessa-van-edwards-transcript/?utm_source=chatgpt.com). In her work, she breaks down the “Cue Cycle”: Decode → Internalize → Encode—illustrating how we interpret signals, let them reshape our mood and behavior, and then respond with our own cues ( https://www.mickmel.com/notes-from-cues-by-vanessa-van-edwards/?utm_source=chatgpt.com). She also highlights powerful patterns showcased by leaders—like open body posture, leaning in, purposeful gaze, and respectful use of space—as the “secret weapons” of nonverbal power ( https://www.mickmel.com/notes-from-cues-by-vanessa-van-edwards/?utm_source=chatgpt.com).

Studies show that when nonverbal signals align with our words, they reinforce our message; when they conflict, they’re often the signals people believe ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albert_Mehrabian?utm_source=chatgpt.com, https://www.scienceofpeople.com/body-language-percentage/?utm_source=chatgpt.com). This is why a confident stance, expressive gestures, and aligned facial cues ground your message—while shrinking into yourself, folding your arms, or avoiding eye contact sends the opposite. Vanessa’s work isn’t theoretical—it’s backed by hundreds of thousands of observations, experiments, and real-world applications via her site Science of People (https://www.scienceofpeople.com).

Non-Verbal Cues in Action

Non-verbal communication looks different depending on the situation. Let’s break it down with a few concrete examples you can use right away:

1. Casual Conversation

• Keep your hands visible – Open palms signal openness.
• Angle your body toward the person – facing them directly shows genuine attention.
• Use micro-expressions – smiles or raised eyebrows signal engagement.
• Mirror their energy – subtly matching tone or gestures builds rapport.
• Maintain comfortable eye contact – balance is key.

2. Participating in a Meeting

• Sit tall and lean in slightly – it shows investment in the conversation.
• Keep gestures intentional – emphasize points without fidgeting.
• Nod strategically – builds trust and collaboration.
• Claim your space – avoid shrinking into your chair.
• Manage transitions – signal readiness to contribute with subtle gestures.

3. Video Calls

• Position your camera at eye level – mimics natural eye contact.
• Use the “triangle of visibility” – head, shoulders, and hands visible.
• Avoid multitasking cues – no typing or looking away.
• Lean in when speaking, lean back when listening – shows engagement rhythm.
• Use lighting to your advantage – well-lit face communicates openness.

Common Non-Verbal Mistakes to Avoid

1. Casual Conversation

• Hands in pockets or crossed arms
• Looking over someone’s shoulder
• Weak or limp gestures

2. Participating in a Meeting

• Slouching back in your chair
• Overusing filler gestures (tapping, clicking)
• Avoiding visibility (sitting out of sight)
• Interrupting without signals

3. Video Calls

• Camera pointing up or down at the wrong angle
• Constantly looking at your own image
• Distracted body language (typing, phone, darting eyes)
• Blank or frozen expressions

Why It Matters for Your Career

Mastering non-verbal cues has a measurable impact on your career trajectory. People form judgments about competence, confidence, and leadership potential within seconds of meeting you. Leaders who use intentional body language are often perceived as more competent and persuasive—even if they’re junior in tenure.

Strong non-verbal communication helps you:

• Gain credibility quickly
• Build stronger relationships
• Enhance visibility
• Accelerate career growth

Five Simple, High-Impact Strategies You Can Implement Today

1. Check Your Posture – Stand or sit tall to project confidence.
2. Make Your Hands Count – Use visible, intentional gestures.
3. Lean In, Listen Actively – Subtle forward leans signal engagement.
4. Camera Confidence – Position at eye level with good lighting; keep hands visible.
5. Mirror & Match – Reflect the energy and tone of others to build rapport.

Wrapping Up

Non-verbal communication is a critical tool in your career toolkit. By paying attention to posture, gestures, facial expressions, and virtual presence, you can dramatically influence how others perceive you, build credibility, and accelerate your professional growth.

If you found these insights useful, subscribe to the Managing A Career podcast (https://managingacareer.com/follow) and never miss an episode.  Each episode is packed with practical strategies to help you advance. And if you know someone who could benefit from leveling up their professional presence, share this episode with them—your recommendation could be the nudge that helps them get noticed and get ahead.

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