Have you ever noticed that your body language shifts and changes when you are anxious or nervous? You may not even realize it, but your body is sending out clear signals about how you are feeling.

When it comes to meetings, this can be particularly important, as the way you carry yourself during a meeting can have a direct impact on how you are perceived by others. Here are some common body language cues to look out for if you are experiencing meeting anxiety.

1. Fidgeting

If you find yourself constantly shifting in your seat, tapping your foot, or playing with small objects, you may be experiencing meeting anxiety.

Fidgeting is a common response to nervousness and can be a sign that you are feeling uncomfortable or unsure. To combat this, try to focus on your breath and take slow, deliberate deep breaths to ground yourself.

2. Lack of Eye Contact

If you are avoiding eye contact or looking down when you speak, you may be signaling to others that you lack confidence or are not fully engaged in the conversation. Try to remind yourself to make eye contact, even if it feels uncomfortable at first.

This will help you build trust and rapport with others in the meeting.

3. Crossed Arms

Crossing your arms can be a defensive posture that signals to others that you are closed off or not interested. If you find yourself doing this in a meeting, try to consciously uncross your arms and place your hands on the table in front of you.

This will signal that you are open and engaged in the conversation.

4. Speaking Too Quickly

If you are feeling anxious, you may be tempted to rush through your words or speak too quickly. This can make it difficult for others to understand what you are saying and can detract from your message.

Instead, try to speak slowly and clearly, pausing between sentences to give yourself time to collect your thoughts.

5. Sitting on the Edge of Your Seat

If you find yourself perched on the edge of your seat during a meeting, you may be signaling to others that you are uncomfortable or nervous. Instead, try to sit back in your chair and take up space. This will help you feel more grounded and in control.

6. Nervous Laughing

When people are anxious, they may laugh nervously in an attempt to diffuse their discomfort. However, this can come across as insincere or unprofessional during a meeting.

Instead, try to remain calm and composed, and trust in your ability to contribute meaningfully to the conversation.

7. Sweating

If you are feeling anxious, you may perspire more than usual, which can be uncomfortable and embarrassing.

If you are prone to sweating during meetings, try to dress in breathable clothing, and bring a handkerchief or tissue to mop up any excess moisture.

8. Avoiding Physical Contact

If you are feeling nervous, you may be hesitant to make physical contact with others, such as shaking hands or patting someone on the back.

However, physical contact can be an important form of nonverbal communication, signaling respect, and camaraderie. If you are comfortable with it, try reaching out and making contact with others in the meeting.

9. Tense Body Language

If you are feeling anxious, you may hold your body in a tense or rigid posture, which can signal to others that you are closed off or uncomfortable.

Instead, try to relax your muscles and adopt a more open and relaxed posture, such as leaning back in your chair or placing your hands on the table in front of you.

10. Lack of Facial Expression

If you are feeling anxious, you may have a harder time controlling your facial expressions, which can impact how you are perceived by others.

Try to maintain a neutral or positive facial expression, and avoid facial expressions that may signal discomfort or disinterest, such as frowning or scowling.

Conclusion

Meeting anxiety can be a common and normal experience, but the way you carry yourself during meetings can have a direct impact on how you are perceived by others.

By becoming more aware of your body language cues, you can take steps to manage your anxiety and project a confident and engaged presence during meetings.