Body language: this is what it means when your colleague frowns
The last time I saw one of our Amayzers in person was just before Christmas. I received a Christmas package delivery. It was a celebration at my door to see someone live again instead of on screen.
When you sit around the table together, you can taste the atmosphere and read someone's body language more easily, but via Zoom that is quite difficult. That's why I consulted body language expert Denise Dechamps from the Body Language Academy , so that you can understand what your colleague means digitally without words.
1. First things first: make sure there is light on your face
‘Eyes are super important, but many people video call with the window behind them where the light comes from behind. You want this the other way around. Use L.A.P. Light source, device, person. This can also be done with a lamp. It gives the other person the feeling that a conversation is more real. Research shows that with good eye contact your connection is better. And don't forget to think about what you wear. In a business conversation, a hoodie can give you a one-nil disadvantage.’
2. Notice discomfort in your colleague
If you and your colleague have better light on your faces, you can read each other better. Denise: ‘Rubbing a flat hand on your neck indicates discomfort. Usually, this discomfort is about what is being discussed. Are you doing it yourself? Then you are doubting what you are saying and it indicates that it is uncomfortable.’
3. Reassure yourself
Not everything about video calling is awkward; it can also work in your favor. ‘If someone is stroking themselves, that person might be trying to reassure themselves. The handy thing about video calling is that you can do this outside of the frame. If a colleague fiddles a lot with their hair, it could also mean that person is increasing their concentration. It works the same as doodling on paper. Touching an ear relates to what you or the person is currently hearing. It is a specific sign of discomfort.’
4. Read the eyebrows
‘If someone frowns briefly, it means they are critical about something. Both eyebrows go down for a moment. If someone raises one eyebrow briefly, it can indicate disbelief. We also do this when we are sarcastic and skeptical. Do you see this happening with your employer? Then there is a bit of doubt there.’
5. With the mouth
Just as you can read things from a nose or eyes, the mouth is also a good indicator. Denise: ‘If one corner of the mouth goes up, this is a micro-expression of contempt. You or the other feels superior about something. You don't have to take this too seriously, because if it is work-related, it can also be a report that is not as expected. Do you signal this? Then it is a good moment to intervene. If you see both corners of the mouth going down and this continues into the neck, then you are dealing with the micro-expression of fear. It means someone finds something exciting or is worried.’
Want to learn more about body language? You can do the training from the Bodylanguage Academy right at home.
Oh, and by the way, it is not vanity at all if you keep looking at yourself while video calling.
