If we give a little attention towards our own body language as well as that of the listener, then we can make a very powerful communication. Here I have mentioned some common body expressions and how they are interpreted by the receiver. Please remember these characteristics can vary with the personality and the culture.
Gestures:
Types Significance
Open palms Positive personality
Eye to eye confrontation honest and direct
Smile Open personality
Handshakes:
Type Significance
Equal handshake Equal in behavior and attitude
Tight grasp Superiority complex
Limp handshake Inferiority complex
Informal handshake Informal behavior and attitude
The Gazes:
Type Significance
Eyes to forehead Official interaction
Forehead to lips Social interaction
Head to toe Call for intimacy
Shifty eye Lack of concentration
Evasive eye Lack of credibility
Stammering eye Lack of confidence
Smiles:
Type Significance
Felt smile Happy with the interaction
Miserable smile Dissatisfied
False smile Sarcastic/ dangerous
Walking Styles:
Type Significance
Hands in pocket Macho image/ shy/ critical
Walk disorganized, head bent Depressed
Eyes focusing on ground Lost in thought
Eyes focusing in the air Looking for solutions
Hand Movement:
Type Significance
Hugging of self Lack of confidence
Clasping of hands behind the neck Aristocratic gesture
Scratching of head Perplexity
Stroking of the chin Careful consideration
Hands on hip Signals authority
Rubbing of hands Excitement/ enthusiasm
Voice Modulation:
Type Significance
Slow speed, low pitch Depression
High pitch Enthusiasm
Ascending tone Astonishment
Abrupt speech Defensive
Monotonous voice Bored