How to Command Respect Through Your Body Language:PART 3

Sitting pretty…

Your posture while sitting is just as important as standing. Your level of interest in a conversation can be easily read by the position you sit in. Be careful to position yourself in a way that shows you're powerful and actively engaged in what others have to say.

What to do:

1. Sit straight so that your shoulders touch the back of your chair. Slouching promotes the image of laziness.

2. Rest your hands on the arms of your chair, place them on your knees, or fold them on your lap so that they are not a distraction.

3. Make sure your chair is positioned so you’re facing the person you’re talking to. This will show that you're engaged in what they are saying.

4. Lean slightly forward to appear interested in a conversation and stress what you’re saying.

What not to do:

1. Don’t cross your ankles. Some people think it’s a sign that you’ve got something to hide. Sit with your feet on the floor to minimize distractions.

2. Don’t tilt your chair back so that it’s standing on two legs. This shows a very casual, laid back attitude and does not earn you respect. You also run the risk of looking silly when you accidentally fall backwards.

3. Don’t cross your arms across your body. You may come across as disinterested.

4. Stretching your legs out shows you're too relaxed and may also invade others' personal space.

5. Never put your feet up on the desk in front of you. You don’t want to come across as condescending.

6. Ladies, be cautious when crossing your legs. If you'll expose things that are better left to the imagination, refrain from doing so.