Body movements

• Nod to show that you are paying attention or to state agreement.
• Lean forward to show attentiveness and interest.
• Move in a way that is appropriate to the situation. For example, moving while someone else is speaking may be perceived as rude, fidgety and shows disinterest.

Hand gestures

• Keep your palms open.
• Avoid jabbing the air with a pointed finger or fist to accentuate the points you are trying to make.

Touching

The only acceptable form of physical contact in a North American business environment is a handshake. Any other form of touching requires permission on the part of both parties. To give a handshake that says: “I’m good, I’m confident and I’m happy to meet you”, use these tips:

• Be aware of your strength – hold the other person’s hand firmly without squeezing too hard.
• If you shake hands with a “pumper” and want to end the handshake, try disengaging by taking a backward step.
• While shaking hands, avoid heartily gripping the other person on the arm or shoulder with your second hand. This is invasive.If someone doesn’t offer his or her hand, by all means offer yours.

Physical distance

• Maintain approximately 3 feet between you and the other person.
• Standing or sitting too close may be considered an invasion of personal space.
• Standing or sitting too far away may suggest that you do not want to get too close and are not interested in communicating with the other person.