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Even if you are saying and doing the right things at your job and in your personal life, you could be making a bad impression on people with what you don’t say. That’s because many of our reactions to others are based on body language. If your body language is communicating a negative message, that’s the message you could be sending, regardless of what actual words come out of your mouth.

What are some of the negative messages sent via body language? Things like having arms folded across your chest can show unfriendliness. Lack of eye contact can indicate shiftiness(奸诈). An unsmiling face could communicate a variety of things, like anger, disappointment or sadness, depending upon what other facial expressions are included. However, many of the clues that indicate negativity could also be the result of nervousness or other issues. For example, somebody who doesn’t make eye contact could simply be nervous and less confident. The same goes with a not-so-warm handshake. Someone folding his arms could simply be more comfortable with the arms that way. Someone who doesn’t smile could be self-conscious about her teeth. The person who sends off bad body language may not even realize that they’re doing it.

Unfortunately, some people who do recognize what body language communicates are scam(欺诈) artists. They may have the firmest handshake, the shiniest smile and make the greatest eye contact to convince others of their sincerity, because they know how much this nonverbal communication plays a part in communicating sincerity. Yet people fall for them, because their body language seems sincere.

If you’re not sure what your body language is communicating, ask a trusted friend for help. Practicing in front of a mirror can also help you remove bad habits. Remember to smile and nod if needed. And try to learn how to relax. Thus, you will send more positive messages with your body language.