Never judge a book by its cover goes the saying because looks can be deceiving. True may be. But in the business environment of today, this doesn’t hold true.  It is the appearance of a person and the way he makes his physical movements that can make or break his career.

Body language is a significant indicator of your work ethic, enthusiasm and attitude at the office. More than the words you use or the tone of your voice, your physical behaviour communicates everything to the keen observer.

Like it or not, but it is more important for the women to make the right body language in the professional world, as they are observed more (by the virtue of being women) than men.

There are many scenarios on the job that call for different types of body language in order to make a positive impression on clients, peers and management. Here's how to proceed in the most common workplace social interactions:

Posture

An ever-important indicator of a confident and vibrant personality is a proper attire and good posture that commands respect. It projects strength of character and conviction.  In a good posture every single detail counts- from eye contact to a firm and dry handshake.

A polite acknowledgment of gratitude, with a relaxed but upright posture, should set the right tone. An uncomfortable posture would show excessive movements from you — playing with your pen, shifting in your chair, doodling, or generally behaving like a moron.

And don't assume that people don't notice that annoying tapping of your feet under the table. Fidgeting shows that you are nervous, uncomfortable and hyperactive. When standing stationary, place feet at shoulder width and lean slightly forward. Head and spine should be straight. Don't use a tabletop or podium as an excuse to lean on it.  Have a posture that exudes confidence and composure.

Smile

Some people exercise frugality with their smiles forgetting that the simple action of keeping your head up high and smiling when acknowledging someone, conveys confidence and a demand for respect.

It is pretty simple- if you show people that you are confident and friendly, they will be more responsive to you. This friendly environment will create a positive climate for trust and business.

With a positive environment you can negotiate contracts and create great partnerships, or even get a promotion. Next time you walk around in your office environment, simply look at people in the eye and smile, but remember not to over do it. You will eventually see people's attitudes change, as they will become friendlier and will definitely remember you.

Eye contact

It is very important body skill. Maintaining eye contact means that you are paying attention to what the other person is saying. Powerful business leaders look at their listeners directly in the eye when delivering their message.

Avoiding eye contact shows that you are nervous, lack confidence and are unprepared.  Even when addressing somebody relatively lower in the corporate ladder, always maintain eye contact and flash a friendly smile his way. You never know when you will need his help or support.

Perfect handshake

Prince Charles is the embodiment of a perfect handshake. He holds his head up high, chin out and one palm gripping the other hand behind his back.

This shows his confidence and superior position. The handshake is the best non-verbal communication in business world all over.

Earlier most women would avoid shaking hands with their men counterparts or colleagues but now with changing attitudes and workplace atmosphere, women too shake hands. 

"The perfect handshake is strong and firm—it shows confidence," explains image consultant Queenie Dhondy. “The hand should be offered with the thumb up and fingers together. Hands should always be clean; avoid perspiration ( if you are feeling nervous) by keeping a handkerchief with you at all times.” Avoid handshakes which are “bone crushers” or which are limp or clammy, Queenie advises.

Body position

You often see two people talking, standing in the same pose. This indicates that they are in agreement with each other, they like each other. If one uncrosses their arms, the other will do the same. If one stands with one foot forward, the other will assume the same position.

If you want to establish a rapport with someone, you too have to assume the same position. This will have the effect of relaxing them and giving them a non-verbal indication that you are both thinking along the same lines.

On the contrary, if you turn your body away from the person then you sure want to covet that you are not enjoying the conversation and it’s time to terminate it.

As far as body language skills are concerned, simply avoiding the most common mistakes and replacing them with more confident movements will make a big difference both personally and professionally.

All your posture, gestures and facial expressions should give out an impression not of a nervous, diffident or an aggressive person but a confident, secure and credible YOU!