No matter the question you’re asked, it’s your physiology that will inspire trust. So, before saying anything, make sure your body language is calm. When we’re startled, we hold our breath, which sends an alarm signal to our brain, starting a stress-induced response. This increases our fight-or-flee capability, but decreases our survival ability in a professional context. Start by breathing out before answering, exhaling for a little longer than you normally would.
Why it works:
To signal confidence, relax your neck and shoulders, straighten up, and clearly articulate your words at a measured pace.
Why it works:
Relax your face, jaws, mouth, and forehead, and even tilt your head a little to look more at ease and less like a rabbit in the headlights. Nod slightly to signal your engagement and validate your interlocutor.
Why it works:
We often resort to self-soothing behaviors (‘stimming’) such as foot-tapping, fidgeting, or playing with a pen without noticing. While this may help lessen our anxiety, but it also reveals it to others. If you catch yourself stimming, slow it down! And practice managing these behaviors in low-stakes situations, so you can stop or reduce them when you’re under pressure.
Why it works:
When faced with questions that you can’t or don’t want to answer directly, first focus on your body language and stay calm. Remember: looking doubtful and tense will only undermine your content.
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