Trustworthiness is a critical leadership characteristic. However, although someone may be a trustworthy person, his or her body language may suggest otherwise.
The following four tips from Business Insider point out important body language elements people use to gauge trustworthiness.
1. Use "open" body language and facial expressions. Open body language shows people you are there to listen, and are therefore trustworthy. Sit and stand with uncrossed arms and legs, and keep your palms open instead of closing your hands into fists. This body language shows you are flexible, not rigid and open to whatever the other person has to say. Facial expressions can also be "open." According to Business Insider, an easy, relaxed and positive countenance signals openness and trustworthiness.
2. Maintain the right amount of eye contact. Eye contact is something people use to measure how comfortable they feel with you, even if they are doing so subconsciously, according to the report. Constant blinking or averting your eyes during a conversation can make the other person feel suspicious and suggest you have something to hide.
To appear honest and invested in conversation, make consistent eye contact, but don't hold it for too long. Research shows ideal eye contact lasts between seven and 10 seconds, and is maintained for 70 to 80 percent of the duration of the conversation, according to the report.
3. Be aware of your tone. Although tone of voice isn't technically body language, it is one of the most important ways we convey trustworthiness, or lack thereof. According to Business Insider, a soothing, calm voice is most likable, while a high-pitched voice and speaking rapidly is less desirable.
4. Smile. Nothing communicates trustworthiness like the warmth and comfort of a genuine smile. Some people get so caught up trying to be professional that they forget to smile, but this is a mistake. While it's important to show you're capable and take your work seriously, smiling is the sure way to put others at ease. If you look relaxed, those around you will relax, too.