I have some very exciting news for all my readers… I am a Certified Body Language Trainer, certified directly by Vanessa Van Edwards of The Science of People! Do you know her? She wrote the book “Captivate, The Science of Succeeding with People” and she is fabulous!
When I started training to become a Certified Body Language certified trainer/coach (which enhances my current Interior Design Business Coaching practice), I knew it would be beneficial to you as an Interior Designer. Why? Because when it comes to sales, and being attractive to potential clients, it’s really key to understand how you’re coming across. Most people do not see themselves accurately!
What I noticed over the years before I became an Interior Design Business Coach, was that when I observed interior designers with a client, I often saw things that they could have done to enhance their body language and drastically change their response, perception, and the outcome of the interaction with the client.
SMILE! EVEN ON THE PHONE
One of the simplest things you must try is smiling more, even when you’re on the phone. Do a test for yourself right now, say hello, when you’re not smiling.
“Hello”
And say hello, when you’re smiling.
“Hello!”
It’s automatic that the tone of your voice changes and it matters. It helps people feel more connected to you and creates a more enthusiastic, optimistic tone in your delivery.
A smile is a disarming feature that helps to settle people’s nerves and create a sense of welcome!
WHAT PEOPLE ARE REALLY PAYING ATTENTION TO
When you actually physically go into a client’s home, do you know the very first thing that people subconsciously notice when they first meet somebody?
You would think the answer would be,
“Their eyes”
“Their face”
“Their hair”
Everybody answers differently, but subconsciously, the first thing that people notice is
“Your hands”!
What? Why?! Allow me to explain.
They noticed that your hands are visible. Hands often indicate your intention. They noticed that you are not a danger to them. It’s very subconscious. It comes from the caveman days believe it or not. It shows that you are not a threat to them, that you are open and trustworthy.
When you first walk into someone’s home, you don’t want to have your hands stuffed in your bag, holding your phone, or have a bunch of stuff in your hands. The goal is to greet them with a nice handshake and a smile.
I want you to practice with somebody, I want you to give a nice firm handshake. Make sure you don’t crush their hands. Let it be firm enough for them to feel your sincerity!
MAKE CONFIDENT EYE CONTACT
It can be very hard for some people, but it is so very important to make eye contact. I’ve seen it time and time again, where creatives sometimes have this issue with eye contact. Where they’ll look aside, they’re uncomfortable. You want to make sure that you give that handshake, look them in the eye, smile, and say it’s really nice to meet you.
In advance, think about what you are going to say after “nice to meet you”. It will make eye contact that much easier!
Not only is it important to figure out what you’re going to say and how you’re going to present your services. It’s also important to understand that there’s a whole other language going on, besides what’s coming out of your mouth and it’s coming from your body. So, I’m excited to teach you guys more. I want to make sure it’s always focused on how to make you better at what you do so that you can attract more clients.
TYING IT ALL TOGETHER
Remember, make sure your hands are visible, and you deliver a nice, firm handshake when you greet someone while making eye contact. This will serve you well when it comes to having that person wanting to work with you AND wanting to hire you.
It only takes seven seconds for somebody’s first impression to be set. So, if you’re walking into a house, flustered and not really focused and calm, you definitely want to make sure that you are aware of these things and correct them.
Above all, remember who YOU are when you go into these settings. Remember all that you have to offer and be settled in that understanding. It will greatly enhance your ease of using body language to your advantage! If you would like to read more about me and Body Language click here to an article in Designers Today magazine.
Overwhelmed growing your business and need help? You don’t have to figure it out all alone anymore. Sign up for a business strategy call and I’ll help you make decisions on the next steps for you and your business.
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