Interpreting Body Language in Meetings

Communication occurs constantly in a meeting.

Not many people are involved in speaking, but almost everyone (if not everyone) would exhibit body language signals that divulge what they are actually feeling inside.

If you are the leader of the meeting, it is important to know if the attendees are interested in what you are saying, or if they agree with your ideas. Early detection of boredom or disagreement is crucial in order for you to change your approach or present a different proposal when necessary.  

When you see most of the attendees reclining back in their chairs or just staring blankly without blinking an eye, it likely means they are not interested in the topic being discussed. Do not prolong the discussion or do something that will break the monotony.

When the attendees nod constantly, it means they are agreeing with what you are saying.

When the attendees cross their arms, touch their nose or mouth, sit back, and worse, shake their heads, they oppose your ideas. Time to think of some countermeasures to neutralize the situation.

When an attendee breathes deeply, it probably means that he wants to interrupt the conversation and express his point of views.

Observe also other body gestures, such as:

You need to detect the inner feelings of each attendee and bear in mind how this can affect the reaction of the other attendees. If the topic being discussed becomes too hot to handle, it might be better to re-schedule the meeting at another time. Some emotional people can exhibit great facial expressions and body gestures. Recognizing them early in the meeting can prevent any undesirable emotional outbreak to occur.