Body language professionals list “posture” as one of the main character traits of successful individuals. What is posture? Posture is a position of a person’s body when walking into a room, when sitting or standing, or giving a presentation. Posture is a particular way of dealing with or considering something. Posture is an approach or an attitude. In short, your posture is your nonverbal body language.
Body language is the process of communicating nonverbally through body movements and gestures. Positive body language can be defined as these nonverbal movements and gestures that are communicating interest, enthusiasm, and positive reactions to what you or some else is saying. How you communicate with your body is important because research show that 60% to 90% of communication is nonverbal. To many, body language is considered the most important aspect of communication as it sends signals to how we are truly feeling.
Therefore, when you walk into a room for that next meeting, stand tall and take up space with humility! Power, status, and confidence are nonverbally displayed through the use of height and space. Keeping your posture tall, your shoulders back, and your head held high, while making eye contact makes you look sure of yourself.
In Acts 26 we find the Apostle Paul in a less than ideal position, but I want you to think about his posture when addressing the king.
Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You are permitted to speak for yourself.” So Paul stretched out his hand and answered for himself: “I think myself happy, King Agrippa, because today I shall answer for myself before you concerning all the things of which I am accused by the Jews, especially because you are an expert in all customs and questions which have to do with the Jews. Therefore I beg you to hear me patiently.” Acts 26:1-3
In a compelling court speech, Paul addressed King Agrippa. Try to sense Paul’s strategy. Paul believed the best defense is a good offense and nearly converted King Agrippa. Observe how this successful leader postured himself and attempted to persuade his audience:
- He appeared relaxed, yet used animated gestures.
- He humbly thanked the king for allowing him to speak.
- He affirmed the king’s knowledge and expertise.
- He identified with their opposition to the life he now embraced.
- He described his motives as pure and constructive.
- He explained that his obedience to God caused his trouble.
- He challenged them with reasonable and verifiable facts.
- He pled with them to obey God.
In order to be successful in your next meeting or presentation be sure to take a little time to think about your posture.