social skills

1

Pay attention to your body language. Bodies often communicate messages more powerfully than words. ^[2] Remember that body language plays an important role in most social interactions. Reflect on the messages you are sending to others through your posture, gestures, eye contact, and facial expressions.

·         If you are avoiding eye contact, standing far away, or crossing your arms, you are likely telling others that you don't want to interact. ^[3]

·         If you adopt a confident stance, smile, make eye contact, stand upright, and uncross your arms, you are more likely to make a good impression.

2

Observe others in social situations. Watch the kind of body language they use in successful social interactions. Take note of their posture, gestures, facial expressions, and eye contact. Consider how you might replicate or improve upon their use of body language in your own life.

·         Determine the type the relationship between the people you are observing. This is important because the body language between close friends might be inappropriate between strangers.

·         Try taking notes about what you see. This will act as a guide and help you to become more aware of your own body language.

3

Improve your non-verbal communication skills at home. Try video-recording yourself in conversation, and consider how your body language might be improved. Also practice non-verbal communication in front of a mirror. Enlisting the help of friends is another effective approach, as they can provide feedback.

·         One of the best things about practicing at home is that it is a private and low-pressure environment.

·         Don't be afraid to be silly! Have fun trying out different types of body language.