How to read body language
First Impressions
What to look for:
- Posture when entering – Upright, balanced posture suggests confidence and preparedness.
- Handshake (if culturally appropriate) – Firm but not overpowering = confidence; limp = insecurity; too strong = dominance attempt.
- Eye contact – Brief, natural eye contact indicates openness; avoidance may signal anxiety or lack of confidence.
Positive signs of Engagement
- Slight forward lean – genuine interest.
- Head nodding – they’re following the conversation.
- Open posture – uncrossed arms and relaxed shoulders, showing receptiveness.
- Active listening cues, such as:
- leaning in when you explain the organisation’s mission
- mirroring your body language subtly
- smiling appropriately
Potential signs of disengagement
- Looking down frequently at notes or phone
- Rigid posture may demonstrate a feeling of discomfort
- Feet pointing toward the door can signal a subconscious desire to leave.
- Interrupting or speaking over you
- Frequent scanning of the room
Signs someone is being genuine:
- Consistent facial expressions with verbal statements.
- Steady breathing and calm tone.
- Visible hands is often associated with openness and honesty.
Signs of discomfort or avoidance:
- Covering their mouth, touching the face frequently.
- Looking away when answering key questions.
- Inconsistent or overly rehearsed responses paired with stiff body movements.
Positive steps you can take:
- Open gestures, palms up or outward.
- Shoulders relaxed but square communicates readiness.
- Stable eye contact and use of first names.
Understanding safety culture is important in the mining and materials industries.
Body language of someone with a strong safety mindset:
- Composed demeanour while discussing high-risk or pressure situations.
- Deliberate, measured gestures when exploring technical or procedural topics.
- Posture that stays steady when describing past responsibilities or challenges.
Stress response cues to be aware of for you personally:
- Light fidgeting
- Occasional stumbles in speech
- Dry throat or clearing the throat
- Repeated leg jiggling
- Excessively fast talking
Be mindful that not all body language signals mean the same thing across cultures or personalities.
- Differences in eye contact norms
- Natural introversion
- Neurodiversity
- Speech patterns influenced by language background
It is important to make sure to interpret patterns, not single gestures.
