Where This Actually Matters
Body language doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It shows up everywhere
— and understanding it changes outcomes.
Job Interviews
Hiring managers notice your handshake, posture, and whether
you actually make eye contact. They’re reading confidence,
anxiety, and authenticity before you speak. A firm handshake,
open posture, and calm hands matter.
Team Meetings
Who’s actually engaged? Leaning in, nodding, making notes.
Who’s checked out? Slouching, phone in lap, minimal facial
expression. Reading the room helps you pitch ideas when people
are actually ready to listen.
Negotiations
When someone crosses their arms, they’ve mentally closed the
door. When they lean forward, they’re interested. Seeing these
signals early means you can adjust your approach before
deadlock happens.
Presentations & Public Speaking
Your slides matter less than whether you seem like you believe
what you’re saying. Pacing the stage, open gestures, and
steady eye contact with the audience build credibility. Stiff
posture reads as nervous.
Difficult Conversations
Sometimes what matters is showing you’re not defensive.
Uncrossed arms, relaxed shoulders, and calm hands signal
you’re open to hearing the other person. It de-escalates
tension before words even begin.
Cross-Cultural Communication
Canada’s multicultural. What’s respectful varies by
background. Learning different cultural norms around eye
contact, physical space, and hand use prevents accidental
offense and builds genuine respect.
