Body Language

Dr Kevin Lacely is a psychologist who specializes in body language – that is, the way people unconsciously reveal their thoughts and feelings simply by the way they sit, stand or move their arms. “Nowadays,” Dr Lacely says, “more and more people recognize that, in order to make a good impression, saying the right thing isn’t enough. How we say it, and the body language we use, can be just as important”. So what does he suggest we do to improve the sort of message our body language is sending? “Firstly, don’t cross your arms or legs,” he advises, “and if you are wearing a jacket, open it. And open posture makes people think that you are being honest and having nothing to hide. If you want to show that you are interested in what someone is saying, you shouldn’t lean forward and tilt your head slightly to one side. Making direct eye contact is usually a good idea, too – although in some cultures it can be a sign of disrespect. ” It can also be very useful to be able to understand someone else’s body language. If, for example, you want to know whether someone is telling the truth or not, there are a number of signs to look out for. “If someone’s eyes dart around the room and they repeatedly touch their face,” Dr Lacey explains, “especially by covering their mouth with their hand, there is a good chance that the person is not being completely honest”. Remembering these simple points, he insists, can prove to be very useful in all sorts of situations.

2. Read the text again and say if these statements are True or False? Explain your answers.

а. Body language is connected with conscious display of a person’s thoughts and feelings.

b. To say right words is enough to make a good impression.

c. To show the interest in somebody’s information you should lean forward.

d. Making eye contact is a sign of respect in any culture.

i. To show that you are absolutely honest you should cover your mouth with the hands.

f. It is necessary to know the language of the body to feel well in any situation.