It is important to make eye contact with people during interpersonal conversations. Failure to do so can make the person appear untrustworthy or dishonest. Doing so also helps the speaker gauge others during conversations. Eye contact also should be maintained while speaking in front of audiences, instead of reading from notes or looking down at the podium.
Facial expressions should match the message the speaker is trying to convey, be it happy, sad, serious or concerned. Speakers also should smile and make it seem like they are enjoying the experience. Audiences tend to view speakers who smile on a regular basis more favorably.
Gestures should seem natural and match the speaker's message. When speaking in front of audiences, some speakers become uncomfortable and wooden, failing to use many gestures. This makes the speaker appear stiff and boring. At the same time, forced gestures can make the speaker seem unnatural and possibly untrustworthy.
Messages are conveyed by the way people walk, stand and sit. One should sit up straight without being rigid and lean forward slightly while talking. This makes the person seem more friendly and approachable. Likewise, when speaking in front of an audience, try to maintain a comfortable posture and what seems natural. Try to avoid being stiff or erect.
Invading people's personal space during interpersonal conversations makes them uncomfortable. They may convey their discomfort by looking away from the person, tapping their fingers, swinging their legs or by rocking. Speakers should look for these signs and adjust their proximity to the person they are speaking to accordingly.
Tapping a person on the shoulder or giving them a hug can convey friendship and warmth, provided it is appropriate behavior for the situation. On the other hand, not touching a person when it is expected can make a person appear cold and indifferent. One also should avoid inappropriate touching that could make the other person seem uncomfortable. Greetings, such as handshakes, are very important as well. A firm and confident handshake makes a person appear confident while a weak or timid handshake can convey insecurity or doubt.
Much is communicated through the inflection of voices, pitch, rhythm, tone, timbre and loudness. Try to speak comfortably and at the appropriate volume. Also try to avoid unnecessary "ums" and "ahs." They can distract listeners and make the speaker seem uncertain.