Tonya Reiman

We all know the head nod as the universal body language signal of acknowledgment, and approval, however there is much more you need to pay attention to in terms of nodding your head. We are used to seeing someone nod their head as means of showing that they are listening to what you are saying, but when the other person nods their head excessively, we tend to interpret that as a sign of meek compliance or even patronization. It is just like the other person is saying,"yeah, uh huh, sure, okay...whatever". Nodding or head is such a common gesture that it is easy to not pay any conscious attention to it or the unconscious signals it gives us when we encounter others doing it. We tend to react to it in one way or another often times without even knowing that it is the head nod we are reacting to. Today's article will show you different key points to think about and pay attention to when it comes nodding your head.

Well, like previously mentioned, nodding your head is a key body language signal that lets the other person know that you are listening to them. It shows the other person that you are paying close attention to what they are saying. Nodding your head is also a natural rapport builder because remember, you are showing them you are interested and that you agree with what they have to say. It is the same as saying to someone, "We are on the same page". You are signaling to the other person that you comprehend what they are saying.

Here is something interesting for you to try. Let's say you are at work and want to get more information about something from a coworker. After you ask the question, wait for the answer. As they are answering you, nod your head and then when they finish answering you, continue to nod your head four or five more times. You will find that they begin speaking again, often giving you more information that they might have originally left out of their answer. When you are actively listening, staying silent and portraying the right body language, you can get others to give you more information than you might be able to get from them otherwise.

Head nodding is a powerful tool. It can also be very contagious. When you nod your head to other people during conversation, it will often times cause them to begin to nod their head also. This creates and fosters positive feelings and may even make them feel more agreeable with what you are saying without even realizing it. It is a great way to build rapport, but also to get someone to agree and cooperate with you.

We know that body language is an unconscious display that reflects our inner feelings and thoughts so pay close attention to the people you are speaking to. Keep an eye out for the impatient head nodder. This is the person that is nodding his head trying to hurry you along as if to say, "Yeah, I know, I get your point - it's my turn to talk now". Don't get flustered, use it to your advantage. Being persuasive is knowing not just what to say but when to say it. Remember that you are building rapport and rapport makes it easier to be persuasive.

The head nod is a very useful body language signal. We all display it from time to time in different situations, but more often than not, we do it without even realizing it. Now that you know the importance of the head nod and the signals it sends to others, go out and practice it with conscious effort. See how often you can build rapport with someone else quicker or more frequently. See how nodding your head gets others to follow suit and look for cues that it has helped you to get someone to be more agreeable to your point of view.

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